Tinubu Converts Kaduna’s NOK Varsity to Federal University of Applied Sciences, Orders Immediate Takeoff
By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna
http://www.newsportng.com.ng President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the immediate takeover of Nok University, Kachia, Kaduna State, by the Federal Government, renaming it the Federal University of Applied Sciences.
The institution, forfeited to the government following a Federal High Court ruling, is set to commence operations in September 2025.
Speaking at the official handover of the university’s assets by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Presidential Villa, Vice President Kashim Shettima described the development as a milestone in the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and national development.
“This is a great day for Kaduna State and the country at large,” Shettima said. “President Tinubu has driven this process from the onset, making it a priority at the Federal Executive Council.”
He commended key figures instrumental in the transition, including General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs, and Senator Sunday Marshall Katung.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State hailed the move as a dream come true for Southern Kaduna, pledging continued inclusivity in governance. “We will ensure that the interests of all are represented in our administration,” he assured.
Senator Katung, who sponsored the bill for the institution’s establishment, described it as a transformative step for education and economic growth in the region. “This university will provide quality education, create jobs, and stimulate local economic development,” he said.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to human capital development, while EFCC Chairman Ola Olukayode detailed the court’s final forfeiture order covering the institution’s assets, including academic buildings, a water factory, and an international hotel.
Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and other dignitaries present lauded President Tinubu’s commitment to national unity and regional development, emphasizing the university’s role in fostering peace and progress.
With the directive for its inclusion in the 2025 budget, the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, is poised to open its doors to students by September, marking a new era in technical and vocational education in Nigeria.
This is a good and commendable development by the federal government.Honestly, the former owner of NOK University ( now Fed.University of Applied sciences… ),though wrongly acquired, deserve some commendations as well,for not engaging in wastages of the wrongly acquired wealth a reason why the newly established University is beginning without delay at a permanent site with structures and other assets.