President Bola Tinubu has directed the Federal Government to take over Nok University in Kachia, Kaduna State, and transform it into the newly renamed Federal University of Applied Sciences.
This follows a ruling from the Federal High Court in Abuja, which ordered the final forfeiture of the privately owned institution to the government.
Vice President Kashim Shettima made the announcement during the handover of the institution’s property and assets by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday.
The renaming of the institution to Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, is part of a promise made to the people of Southern Kaduna, with immediate plans for the university’s operations to begin.
The Vice President affirmed that the university would be included in the 2025 budget, with plans to admit its first students by September 2025.
The transition marks a key moment for both the education sector and Kaduna State, with officials emphasising the significance of inclusivity and national development.
“This is a great day for the country and for Kaduna State,” said Shettima, crediting President Tinubu for making the university’s establishment a priority.
Southern Kaduna’s leaders, including Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani and Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, have praised the decision as a transformative moment for the region, promising positive impacts in education, job creation, and local economic growth.
In addition to education, Shettima reiterated the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development in the region, with a focus on road construction.
The handover ceremony, which involved various stakeholders, also highlighted the long-awaited achievement for the people of Southern Kaduna, with contributions from figures like General Martin Luther Agwai and Bishop Matthew Kukah.
The establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences is expected to enhance educational and social development in Southern Kaduna, providing access to world-class education and contributing to the country’s human capital development.
