Nasarawa Federal Polytechnic Gets University Status for Mining, Engineering from Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has given his assent for the conversion of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, into a specialised institution, now to be known as the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology, also in Nasarawa. This development was announced on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy. Onanuga clarified that this transformation aligns with President Tinubu's administration's dedication to enhancing technical learning, fostering human capital development, and tapping into Nigeria's extensive solid mineral reserves.

The presidential nod came after a proposal submitted by Senator Ahmed Aliyu, who represents the Nasarawa West Senatorial District. Senator Aliyu had advocated for the creation of a dedicated institution that would leverage Nasarawa State's unique strengths in the solid minerals industry and contribute significantly to Nigeria's overall industrialisation goals.

As outlined in the presidential directive, the newly established specialised university is mandated to deliver top-tier education, conduct advanced research, and foster innovation across various fields, including mining, engineering, mineral processing, metallurgy, manufacturing, and cutting-edge technologies. Its primary objective will be to cultivate a proficient workforce essential for promoting value addition, driving technological progress, and ensuring the responsible and sustainable utilisation of Nigeria's vast mineral wealth.

A section of the official statement highlighted that, “The approval reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to aligning Nigeria’s tertiary education system with national development priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda by establishing specialised institutions that address the country’s economic needs and leverage its competitive advantages.”

Furthermore, the statement indicated that President Tinubu has instructed the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), and other pertinent bodies to initiate the required procedures for the seamless execution of this conversion, adhering strictly to existing laws and regulations. President Tinubu reiterated his administration's resolve to continuously invest in the education sector, recognising its pivotal role in stimulating economic growth, fostering innovation, creating employment opportunities, and ensuring national prosperity.