President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the Federal Government to take over Nok University, Kachia, Kaduna State, and convert it into a federal institution, fulfilling a longstanding promise to the people of Southern Kaduna.
Vice President Kashim Shettima made the announcement on Tuesday during the formal handover of the university’s property and assets to the Federal Government by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Following a directive from President Tinubu—issued after the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the final forfeiture of the privately owned institution—the university has now been renamed Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State.
Vice President Shettima described the move as a testament to the Tinubu administration’s commitment to inclusivity and national development.
“This is a historic day for our country and for Kaduna State. Credit must go to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing this issue and making it a key agenda at the Federal Executive Council,” Shettima said.
Quoting Martin Luther King Jr., Shettima emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in nation-building. He also praised the role of key stakeholders in the transition process, including General Martin Luther Agwai (retd.), Bishop Matthew Kukah, Justice Kumai Akaahs, and Senator Sunday Marshall Katung.
“The engagements we had with these distinguished individuals were instrumental in making this a reality. Today, we celebrate the fruits of those efforts,” he added.
Shettima assured Nigerians that the institution would commence operations soon, stating that President Tinubu has directed the Minister of Education to ensure the university is included in the 2025 budget, paving the way for student admissions in September 2025.
Beyond education, Shettima reiterated the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development in Southern Kaduna, particularly in road construction.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for making the Federal University of Applied Sciences a reality, describing the handover as a historic milestone.
Governor Sani also praised Vice President Shettima, calling him a strong pillar of support for Kaduna State and its people.
“We will continue to run Kaduna in an inclusive manner where the interests of all are taken into consideration,” he assured.
Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, who represents Kaduna South Senatorial District, also lauded the President’s decision, emphasizing its far-reaching impact on education, job creation, and economic growth in the region.
“This university will not only provide access to quality education but also create jobs, stimulate local economic development, and strengthen the social and cultural fabric of our community,” Katung said.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, hailed the development as a sign of President Tinubu’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s human capital.
The Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukayode, explained that the university’s assets—including academic buildings, a water factory, an international hotel, and an event center—had been forfeited to the government through a final court judgment.
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, called the decision a landmark achievement for Southern Kaduna and the nation, stating that the university would serve as a hub for national development.
Retired General Martin Luther Agwai described the day as one of the greatest moments for the people of Southern Kaduna, expressing joy over the establishment of a science-based university that will enhance the region’s quality of life.
With the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia now a reality, the people of Southern Kaduna stand to benefit from a world-class institution focused on applied sciences, innovation, and skill development.
