Over the weekend, the media buzzed with the name of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, making headlines for proposing the upgrade of the National Institute for Nigerian Languages (NINLAN) in Aba to a full-fledged federal university. The twist? It’s to be named after President Bola Tinubu.
This initiative has drawn mixed reactions. Some critics view it as a misplaced priority for Aba, but I stand firmly with the school of thought that sees this upgrade as a transformative step for the city. Whether or not the institution bears the President’s name is secondary; what matters most is the impact such a development will have on the community.
To put things in perspective, let’s borrow an analogy from a bold woman involved in a scandalous affair. When accused of inappropriate behavior with a much younger man, she famously remarked, “I don’t care about who it is, I just want the fire around my waist.” Aba needs that same fire—an economic and educational fire that will illuminate the city.
The establishment of a Federal University of Languages in Aba could place the city on the international map, turning it into a hub for linguistic studies and attracting expatriates and foreign scholars. As an educationist, I can confidently say this will be the icing on the cake for Aba.
Aba will become the first city in the Southeast to host such a specialized university. The university will not only enhance the academic environment but also serve as an economic engine. A steady influx of foreign languages, culture, and expertise will flow through the institution, boosting local revenue and providing direct exposure for Aba’s renowned “Made in Aba” products.
The most crucial benefit, however, will be job creation. A university is a self-sustaining community that offers opportunities beyond teaching. From administrative roles to facility management, this project will create thousands of jobs, significantly improving the economic prospects of the region. Abia State, like many northern states, will now proudly host two federal universities, a remarkable feat.
Critics may argue that the proliferation of universities without strengthening existing institutions is problematic. While there’s merit to that argument, this is a case of “national cake”—why shouldn’t Aba have its share? We can always address the retrofitting of universities later, but for now, let’s seize the opportunity.
As for the choice of naming the university after Bola Tinubu, it’s a smart political move. Immortalizing the President’s name in the Southeast at a time when he seeks political inroads into the region will break barriers that might otherwise obstruct the bill. If you were in his shoes, wouldn’t you welcome it? The President certainly would, and so should we, given the positive ripple effects this development will create.
Those who oppose this bill likely do not have the best interests of Aba or Abia at heart. Perhaps, they are displeased because the university isn’t coming to their state. However, to Rep. Benjamin Kalu, thank you for proposing and sponsoring this much-needed upgrade. If this initiative is why your name is trending, then please keep trending. When this dream is realized, Aba and its people will not only applaud you, but carry you on their shoulders as a hero of progress.
Rep. Kalu, step forward and take a well-deserved bow!
By Wisdom Anucha
#Otito_Diri_Jesu!
