The Lagos State Government has partnered with private tertiary institutions to redefine higher education standards, following the maiden Stakeholders’ Forum organised by the Ministry of Tertiary Education in Ikeja.
Eko Hot News reports that the forum, themed “Effective Engagement of Private Tertiary Institutions: Collaborating for a Sustainable Future,” marked the first structured strategic dialogue between the state government and private higher education providers.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule, said Lagos can only achieve its ambition of becoming a global knowledge hub through stronger collaboration between public and private institutions.
He described the engagement as a shift from transactional interactions to long-term strategic partnerships, noting that while the government will continue to enforce quality assurance, private institutions will be supported to innovate and maintain high academic standards.
Sule stated that the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu considers education central to development, adding that private institutions play a critical role in expanding access to tertiary education and addressing evolving labour market demands.
Delivering the keynote address, former Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Professor Bamitale Omole, stressed that meaningful collaboration must be driven by innovation and clear policy direction.
He said synergy between government and private proprietors could bridge infrastructure gaps, align curricula with industry needs and ensure uniform quality standards across Lagos’ tertiary education system.
Professor Omole also called for transparent guidelines and regular communication channels between the Ministry and private institutions to sustain the partnership.
A panel session featuring Professor Akinwale Coker, Mr Sulaimon Ajayi, Mr Bola Disu and Mrs Emmanuella Esther agreed that collaboration is essential to improving the global competitiveness of Lagos graduates.
Panellists identified joint faculty development, digital learning and policy alignment as key priorities, while also highlighting funding models and student welfare as shared challenges.
The forum attracted private institution owners, managers, educators from both sectors, former Vice-Chancellors, Deans of faculties and members of the public.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to sustained engagement with stakeholders to strengthen tertiary education delivery and outcomes in Lagos State.
