Tinubu converts Nok University to Federal University of Applied Sciences
– President directs inclusion in 2025 budget for September Takeoff
Kunle Sanni
President Bola Tinubu has approved the immediate takeover of Nok University, Kachia, Kaduna State, transforming it into the Federal University of Applied Sciences.
The decision follows a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja that ordered the final forfeiture of the privately-owned institution to the Federal Government.
This move also fulfills a promise made by Tinubu’s administration to the people of Southern Kaduna, furthering the government’s commitment to expanding access to quality education.
At a formal handover ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Vice President Kashim Shettima described the development as a landmark moment for education and national development.
Speaking at the event, Shettima credited President Tinubu for prioritizing the takeover, noting that it was the first item on the agenda of the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
“This is a great day for the country and for Kaduna State,” Shettima stated. “We must either learn to live together as brothers, or we are going to die together as fools.”
The Vice President also commended prominent Southern Kaduna leaders, including General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd.), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs, and Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, for their efforts in facilitating the transition.
To ensure the institution becomes operational without delay, Shettima announced that President Tinubu has directed the Minister of Education to include the university in the 2025 budget.
“This means that by September, the university will admit its first set of students,” he confirmed.
Beyond education, Shettima assured that the Tinubu administration remains committed to infrastructure development in Southern Kaduna, particularly in road construction.
“The governor is already making significant progress in reconstructing key roads in the region. However, President Tinubu has promised to complement these efforts by awarding contracts for additional road projects,” he added.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, hailed the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences as a dream come true for Southern Kaduna.
“This is a great day for our people and the entire country,” he said. “We will continue to run Kaduna in an inclusive manner where the interests of all are considered.”
Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, who sponsored the bill for the university’s establishment, expressed excitement, calling it a historic milestone.
“We are eager to embark on this journey that has eluded us for decades. This university will not only provide access to quality education but also create jobs, stimulate local economic growth, and enhance social cohesion,” he said.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the establishment of the university as a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to expanding human capital development.
“Today demonstrates another evidence of this administration’s dedication to education, health, and social welfare,” he stated.
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukayode, explained that the court granted a final forfeiture of the university’s assets, including academic buildings, a water factory, an international hotel, and an event center.
“We are here pursuant to the resolution of the Federal Executive Council on February 4, 2025, to hand over the university’s property for the use of the newly established Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia,” Olukayode stated.
Reacting to the development, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, hailed the university’s establishment as a game-changer for Kaduna and Nigeria.
“This is a Nigerian project—it’s not just for the people of Kaduna. The university will enhance the capacity of all Nigerians. This is an idea that will bring peace to the region,” he said.
Similarly, Gen. Martin Luther Agwai (rtd.) described the moment as one of the greatest days of joy for Southern Kaduna.
“Our people have waited for this for a long time. A science-based university in this region will uplift lives and expand opportunities,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, and community leaders, including:
Hon. Daniel Amos, member representing Jema’a/Sanga Federal Constituency
Rev. John Joseph Hayab, former Chairman, Kaduna State CAN
Chief Anthony Hassan
Dr. Abdulamalik Durunguwa
Charity Shekari
Andrew Yakubu, among others.
