President Bola Tinubu has directed the Federal Government to take over NOK University, Kachia, Kaduna State, and convert it into a Federal University of Applied Sciences. This decision follows a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja, which ordered the final forfeiture of the privately-owned institution to the government.
During the official handover of the university’s property and assets by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Vice President Kashim Shettima described the move as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and national development.
Speaking at the event, Shettima commended President Tinubu for prioritizing the establishment of the university, stating that the decision was a major step towards addressing educational needs in the region. He assured that the university would commence operations in September 2025, following the president’s directive to the Minister of Education to ensure its inclusion in the 2025 budget.
Beyond education, Shettima reaffirmed the government’s commitment to infrastructure development in Southern Kaduna, particularly in road construction. He noted that while the Kaduna State government is already working on key roads, the federal government would complement these efforts by awarding contracts for additional projects in the region.
Shettima also acknowledged the efforts of key stakeholders who played crucial roles in the university’s transition, including General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs, and Senator Sunday Marshall. He particularly praised Bishop Kukah for his unwavering dedication to peace and progress in the region.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, described the establishment of the university as a historic moment for Southern Kaduna and expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their support. He emphasized that the peaceful coexistence enjoyed in Kaduna is a deliberate policy of his administration, assuring that inclusivity will remain a guiding principle.
Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, who sponsored the bill for the university’s establishment, welcomed the development, stating that the institution would provide access to quality education, create jobs, and boost local economic growth. He added that the project, which had been a long-standing vision, would finally become a reality.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, highlighted the significance of the move, describing it as part of President Tinubu’s broader strategy to expand human capital development in Nigeria. He reiterated the government’s commitment to education, healthcare, and social welfare as key areas of national growth.
The Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukayode, confirmed that the Federal High Court had granted the final forfeiture of NOK University’s assets, including academic buildings, a water factory, an international hotel, and an event center, for government use. He stated that the handover was in line with the resolution of the Federal Executive Council on February 4, 2025.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, hailed the decision as a significant step toward fostering peace and development in Southern Kaduna and beyond. He emphasized that the new university was a national project that would benefit all Nigerians.
Retired General Martin Luther Agwai described the day as one of immense joy, noting that Southern Kaduna had long awaited a science-based university that would enhance education and socio-economic opportunities in the region.
