Tinubu approves upgrade of Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa to Specialised University following Wadada’s proposal
Federal Polytechnic in Nasarawa Approved for Upgrade to University Status
NIGERIA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the conversion of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, into the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology, Nasarawa. This decision aims to enhance the country’s technical education sector and optimize Nigeria’s abundant solid mineral resources.
The announcement was made in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. The approval follows a proposal from Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who represents the Nasarawa West Senatorial District. Senator Wadada advocated for this transformation, citing the state’s rich mineral deposits as a key reason for establishing a specialized institution focused on mining and engineering.
With this new designation, the university will be positioned to offer specialized programs in teaching, research, and innovation across various fields, including mining, engineering, mineral processing, metallurgy, and emerging technologies.
The new institution is expected to play a crucial role in training professionals who can contribute to value addition in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, promote industrial innovation, and support the sustainable development of the nation’s natural resources.
The presidency indicated that this decision aligns with President Tinubu’s broader reform agenda, which seeks to align higher education with national economic priorities by establishing institutions that address manpower needs in critical sectors.
To facilitate a smooth transition, the President has instructed the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), and other relevant agencies to initiate the necessary legal, regulatory, and administrative processes for the upgrade.
