Toba Owojaiye reporting
Kachia, Kaduna
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Federal Government to take over Nok University in Kachia, Kaduna State, and convert it into the Federal University of Applied Sciences. This move follows a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja that ordered the final forfeiture of the private institution to the government.
Truth Live News gathered that the formal handover ceremony took place at the Presidential Villa, where Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the administration’s commitment to national development and inclusivity. He noted that the institution’s transformation fulfills a promise made to the people of Southern Kaduna.
“This is a great day for the country and for Kaduna State,” Shettima stated. “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 commended several key figures who played instrumental roles in the transition process, including General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs, and Senator Sunday Marshall Katung.
“The engagements we had with General Agwai, Justice Akaahs, and Senator Marshall were all geared towards making this a reality,” Shettima added.
To ensure the university commences operations by September, Tinubu has instructed the Minister of Education to include the institution in the 2025 budget.
Beyond the establishment of the university, Shettima reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development in Southern Kaduna, particularly road construction. He stated that while Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has made significant progress, the federal government will step in to support these efforts.
Governor Sani described the handover as a significant achievement for the state and the nation. He praised Vice President Shettima for his unwavering support, highlighting the administration’s inclusive governance approach.
Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, who sponsored the bill for the institution’s establishment, expressed optimism about the university’s impact.
“This university will not only provide access to quality education but will also create jobs, stimulate local economic growth, and contribute to the social and cultural fabric of our community,” Katung said.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman, Ola Olukayode, confirmed that the university’s assets—including academic buildings, a water factory, an international hotel, and an event center—had been forfeited to the government and formally transferred for use as a federal institution.
The newly established university is expected to enhance access to science-based education in the region and contribute to peace and development in Southern Kaduna.