President Bola Tinubu has approved the conversion of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, into the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology, Nasarawa, in a move aimed at strengthening technical education and unlocking Nigeria’s vast solid minerals potential.
The approval was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who said the decision aligns with the administration’s commitment to human capital development and economic transformation through specialised education.
According to the presidency, the new university will focus on producing highly skilled graduates and advancing research in areas critical to Nigeria’s industrial growth and the sustainable development of the mining sector.
Proposal backed by senator
The presidency disclosed that the approval followed a proposal by Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, who represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
According to the statement, the lawmaker presented a case for establishing a specialised university that would leverage Nasarawa State’s rich deposits of solid minerals while supporting the Federal Government’s industrialisation agenda.
The proposal was considered in line with ongoing efforts to create institutions that address sector-specific manpower needs and equip young Nigerians with practical and technical skills.
Focus on mining and engineering
The presidential directive explained that the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology will provide world-class education, research and innovation in mining, engineering, mineral processing, metallurgy, manufacturing and emerging technologies.
It noted that the institution is expected to produce the skilled workforce required to drive value addition across the mining industry, promote technological advancement and encourage the sustainable exploitation of Nigeria’s mineral resources.
The government believes that expanding access to specialised training in these fields will enhance the country’s competitiveness and reduce dependence on imported technical expertise.
Aligning education with economic priorities
The statement said the conversion reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to aligning Nigeria’s tertiary education system with the economic priorities of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
