President Bola Tinubu has authorized the takeover of Nok University in Kachia, Kaduna State, converting it into the newly established Federal University of Applied Sciences. This move follows a directive after a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the final forfeiture of the privately-owned institution to the Federal Government. The transformation of Nok University into a federal entity fulfills a commitment made to the people of Southern Kaduna.
The formal handover of the university’s assets to the federal government was conducted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the State House, Abuja. In his speech, Vice President Kashim Shettima highlighted that this development is part of the administration’s broader commitment to inclusivity, regional development, and national progress. Shettima also expressed gratitude to those instrumental in the transition process, including key figures like General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, and Senator Sunday Marshall.
Shettima outlined that the university will be incorporated into the 2025 federal budget, with plans to admit its first set of students by September 2025. The vice president also reassured that infrastructure development, particularly road construction in Southern Kaduna, would continue under the administration’s guidance.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, praised President Tinubu for turning the dream of establishing the Federal University of Applied Sciences into reality, calling it a “great day” for the people of Kaduna and Nigeria at large. He also emphasized the administration’s focus on inclusive governance, with a specific mention of the support from Vice President Shettima.
Senator Sunday Katung, representing Kaduna South, expressed excitement over the university’s establishment, calling it a transformative step for education and economic development in the region. Katung, who presented the bill for the university’s establishment in the Senate, emphasized the positive impact the institution will have on access to education, job creation, and local economic growth.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, hailed the university’s establishment as a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to human capital development. He noted that the university will contribute significantly to Nigeria’s capacity-building efforts.
EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukayode, explained that the university’s assets—including academic buildings, a water factory, an international hotel, and an event center—were officially handed over as part of the federal government’s resolution.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, remarked that the establishment of the university is a monumental achievement for Southern Kaduna and Nigeria, emphasizing its potential to bring peace and development to the region. He expressed gratitude for President Tinubu’s efforts in fostering unity and progress.
General Agwai (rtd) also expressed joy, noting that the university would bring long-awaited benefits to Southern Kaduna and enhance the value of life in the region.