President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said 18 higher institutions, including the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), are beneficiaries of the Federal Government’s N110 billion national interventions for expanding medical training facilities.

He said the initiative was meant to produce more healthcare professionals for national service.

President Tinubu spoke yesterday at the 40th convocation ceremonies of UNILORIN, the Kwara State capital.

Represented by the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Prof. Temidayo Oladiji, the president urged tertiary unions to always embrace dialogue.

“I am confident that constructive engagement with unions will continue to prevent future industrial disruptions. I urge all staff unions to sustain the spirit of dialogue and cooperation.

“Similarly, we are resolute in ensuring uninterrupted academic calendars across our universities. The Federal Government has paid earned allowances and part of the previously withheld salaries of academic and non-teaching staff.

“The loan scheme for tertiary institutions’ workers has also been designed to assist them in meeting present economic challenges. It is a genuine empowerment initiative, not a burden.

“Our decision to temporarily suspend the creation of new federal tertiary institutions stems from our conviction that we must consolidate and strengthen existing ones.

“We prioritise quality over quantity. Adequate resources will therefore be channelled to existing institutions to enhance their capacity and impact…

“To further deepen your impact, I am pleased to announce that the University of Ilorin has been selected to host one of the National Universities Commission’s Digital Innovation Hubs.

“This flagship project is designed to harness the ingenuity, creativity, and entrepreneurial potential of our youths not only within this university but also across neighbouring institutions in Kwara State and beyond.

“It will serve as a catalyst for research, digital skills development, and enterprise incubation, positioning Ilorin as a leading centre for innovation in Nigeria’s knowledge economy.

“Our nation is undergoing profound economic reforms designed to restore stability, unlock productivity, and secure a prosperous future,” the President said.

He added: “I acknowledge the temporary hardships Nigerians face today, but I assure you these challenges are short-lived.

“The foundation we are laying will yield a stronger, more resilient, and inclusive economy. I appeal for continued understanding and patience.

“The future of Nigeria depends on the choices we make today. My administration remains committed to pragmatic policies and programmes that will lead us to sustainable recovery and national greatness.

“To achieve this, states and local governments must complement Federal efforts, especially now that they receive increased revenues.

“While government remains committed to increased investment in education, I call on individuals, alumni, and the private sector to complement these efforts. Education is too important to be left solely to government.

“The partnership of all stakeholders is vital in building a prosperous and knowledge-driven nation.”