A bill seeking to upgrade Yaba college of Technology to university status has passed second reading in the Nigerian Senate chamber.

The bill, City University of Technology (Est., etc.) Yaba, which sought to transform Yaba College of Technology was okayed following a motion by Senator Gbenga Ashafa (APC-Lagos) at the plenary presided over by Senate President Bukola Saraki in Abuja.

Leading the debate, Ashafa, who represents Lagos East Senatorial District, argued that if the bill is considered, it would enhance the capability of the institution to achieve its objectives.

“Nigeria’s steady march towards education for all in the shortest possible time has taken a giant leap with the introduction of this bill.

“I am personally excited by the prospect of transforming this polytechnic to a university of technology because it will motivate both the students and the academic staff.

“It will also upgrade the facilities and enhance its capability to achieve its objectives.

“Similarly, the new university of technology will encourage the advancement of learning and hold out to all persons without distinction of race, creed, sex or political conviction the opportunity of acquiring a higher and liberal education,” he said.

The motion was unanimously adopted by the legislators.

Saraki, therefore, referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND for further legislative action and report back within a week.