Abstract: The study aimed at highlighting the role of tertiary education in manpower development. In order to clarify the variables that constitute this topic; education, tertiary education, manpower and development were discussed. These concepts were given meaning for better understanding. Manpower development as a term was examined, revealing that it has to do with the process of improving and developing the skills and potentials of the individual who in turn develops the organization or society where they operate. The role of tertiary education in manpower development were examined, stressing its importance in the inculcation of worthwhile knowledge, skills, creative abilities, values, and the spirit of commitment which is paramount to the overall development of the system. Certain challenges ranging from human, economic and financial related factors were identified as setback to the higher institution’s drive for manpower development. Based on these identified challenges, recommendations were made for the way forward which includes: the tertiary institutions should fashion new ways of tackling the challenges inherent in the school System. The government and non-governmental bodies should ensure adequate funding of the tertiary institutions to enable it meet the financial requirement for adequate manpower training. It was finally submitted that if recommendations made are properly implemented, the course of manpower development will be greatly achieved.