President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the conversion of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, into the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology, Nasarawa.
The upgrade, announced on Saturday, follows a proposal by Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, representing Nasarawa West Senatorial District. It aligns with President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening technical education, developing human capital, and unlocking Nigeria’s vast solid minerals potential.
A statement by the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, said the decision was taken to establish “a centre of excellence for teaching, research and innovation in mining, engineering, mineral processing, metallurgy, manufacturing and emerging technologies.”
The new university is expected to produce skilled professionals capable of driving value addition in Nigeria’s mining industry, advancing technological development, and promoting the sustainable exploitation of the nation’s mineral resources.
Senator Wadada had argued for the specialised institution to leverage Nasarawa State’s rich mineral deposits while addressing the skilled workforce needs of the sector.
The Presidency described the upgrade as part of President Tinubu’s broader strategy of aligning tertiary education with Nigeria’s economic priorities by creating specialised institutions that tackle critical manpower shortages in key sectors.
To ensure a smooth transition, the President has directed the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), and other relevant agencies to immediately begin the necessary legal and administrative processes in line with existing laws and regulations.
President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s resolve to continue investing in education “as a catalyst for economic growth, technological innovation, job creation and national prosperity.”
