In a bold move to reshape the educational landscape of Nigeria’s South-South region, Governor Pastor Umo Eno has approved the transformation of the Akwa Ibom State College of Education, Afaha Nsit, into a full-fledged University of Education. The announcement, made following the State Executive Council meeting on October 13, 2025, signals a strategic pivot toward advanced teacher training and curriculum reform.
The newly designated Akwa Ibom University of Education is set to become a cornerstone of the state’s Human Capital Development strategy, a key pillar of Governor Eno’s ARISE Agenda. The institution will prioritize the training and retraining of educators, with a strong emphasis on curriculum innovation, pedagogical research, and global competitiveness.
Governor Eno described the upgrade as a transformative milestone, noting that the university will serve as a breeding ground for modern educators equipped to meet the demands of 21st-century classrooms. “We are investing in the future of our children by empowering those who teach them,” he stated.
The decision reflects a broader ambition to position Akwa Ibom as a regional leader in education and knowledge production. With its new status, the university is expected to attract national and international partnerships, research funding, and academic talent.
The move also addresses longstanding gaps in teacher quality and educational infrastructure across Nigeria. By focusing on technology-driven learning and continuous professional development, the university aims to raise the standard of education not only within the state but across the country.
Afaha Nsit’s transition into a university marks a significant shift from its previous role as a college of education, expanding its mandate to include postgraduate programs, research centers, and specialized institutes for educational policy and innovation.
Stakeholders in the education sector have lauded the initiative, calling it a timely intervention in a nation grappling with teacher shortages and outdated curricula. Many see it as a model for other states seeking to modernize their educational systems.
The university’s establishment is expected to stimulate local economic growth, create academic jobs, and enhance the state’s reputation as a hub for intellectual development. It also aligns with global trends emphasizing the professionalization of teaching and the integration of digital tools in education.
As Akwa Ibom embarks on this new chapter, the success of the University of Education will likely depend on sustained investment, visionary leadership, and a commitment to excellence in teacher preparation.
