President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the Federal Government to take over Nok University in Kachia, Kaduna State, and transform it into the Federal University of Applied Sciences.
This decision follows a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja, which ordered the permanent forfeiture of the privately owned university to the Federal Government.
Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the development during the formal handover ceremony at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) facilitated the transfer of the institution’s property and assets to the Federal Government, marking a significant step towards fulfilling a longstanding promise to the people of Southern Kaduna.
Shettima commended President Tinubu’s leadership in prioritising the establishment of the university, noting that the initiative was the first item addressed by the Federal Executive Council.
“This is a historic moment for our nation and Kaduna State. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for inclusivity and educational advancement is evident through this remarkable achievement,” he stated.
The Vice President also acknowledged the efforts of key figures who played pivotal roles in the university’s transition, including General Martin Luther Agwai (retd), Bishop Matthew Kukah, Justice Kumai Akaahs, and Senator Sunday Marshall. He expressed deep appreciation for their commitment to peace and development in the region.
University to be included in new budget
In his remarks, Shettima confirmed that the university would commence operations soon. Directives have already been issued to the Minister of Education to include the institution in the 2025 budget.
The university is expected to welcome its first batch of students by September.
This was contained in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha.
Shettima said: “This is a great day for the country and for Kaduna State. The greater credit should go to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for driving the process and making it the first item on the agenda of the Federal Executive Council.
The Vice President also paid tribute to those who helped with the transition, including General Martin Luther Agwai (Rtd), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs, and Senator Sunday Marshall.
Beyond education, VP Shettima reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development in Southern Kaduna, particularly in road construction.
Kaduna Governor Uba Sani thanked President Tinubu for the realisation of the dream to establish the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Southern Kaduna, describing the signing ceremony and handover of property for the takeoff of the institution as a great day for the people of the state and Nigerians at large.
Sani reserved special commendations for Vice President Shettima, whom he described as a strong pillar of support for his administration and the people of Kaduna, particularly for the actualisation of the Federal University of Applied Sciences project.
