By Gift Chapi-Odekina, Abuja

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has unveiled plans to establish four landmark institutions in Zaria.

These include a Federal College of Education, a state-of-the-art College of Health Sciences, a National Open University campus, and a College of Legal Studies.

Speaker Abbas made the announcement on Saturday while addressing executive members of the Zaria Educational and Development Association (ZEDA). The groundbreaking ceremonies for these projects are slated for Sunday, December 15, 2024, marking a historic moment for Zaria’s educational development.

“These institutions will transform Zaria’s educational landscape, providing critical resources and infrastructure for the region,” Abbas said.

The Speaker emphasized the significance of these new institutions, particularly in addressing regional needs:

Federal College of Education: Upgraded from an existing college, this institution aims to enhance teacher training and capacity building.

College of Health Sciences: Designed to meet the increasing demand for healthcare professionals in Zaria and the broader northwestern region.

National Open University Campus: Tailored to cater to civil servants and others unable to attend conventional educational systems.

College of Legal Studies: Focused on expanding opportunities for legal education and training.

“Zaria is known for education, not commerce or industry. Strengthening and expanding our educational infrastructure is essential for the region’s future,” Abbas noted.

Speaker Abbas also highlighted ongoing renovations in 116 primary and secondary schools, with plans for additional upgrades. Speaking on these efforts, he expressed appreciation for the community’s support and pledged continued collaboration to make Zaria a hub of educational excellence.

The Speaker urged ZEDA and other stakeholders to present their priorities for inclusion in the 2025 budget. “This is the time to let us know what you need. The budget is still in the works, and we are ready to assist where possible,” he said.

During an inspection tour of projects initiated under the 2023 supplementary budget and 2024 budget, Abbas commended the progress made. “What I have seen so far is commendable. Contractors have mobilized and are delivering quality work,” he remarked, noting that only a fraction of ongoing projects could be inspected due to time constraints.

Key projects include renovations of schools, construction of hospitals, road networks, bridges, and markets. Abbas described the initiatives as addressing nearly every aspect of human development.

The Speaker also addressed the reconstruction of the Abba village bridge, destroyed by insurgents in 2014. He assured constituents that the project, fully funded under the 2024 appropriation bill, would be completed within six to twelve months.

“The contractor has confirmed that all funds are in place. There will be no delays due to budget cycles,” Abbas stated.

Speaker Abbas reiterated his commitment to Zaria’s development, emphasizing that the groundbreaking ceremonies on Sunday would signify a turning point. “These projects will solidify Zaria’s status as the nation’s center of learning,” he said.

The new institutions are expected to be completed within 16 to 18 months, ensuring Zaria’s educational infrastructure meets the demands of the future.