The Federal Government has officially received the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) for 170 hectares of land allocated for the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna.
The Minister of Education confirmed the development after hosting Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, and Senator Sunday Katung in his office for the formal handover of the land documents.
“In our ongoing efforts to expand STEMM education, I was honored to welcome H.E. Sen. Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna, and Senator Sunday Katung to my office for the presentation of the Certificate of Occupancy for approximately 170 hectares of land designated for the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna,” the Minister said.
University Honors Nigerian Education Icons
President Bola Tinubu emphasized that establishing the university was also a way to honor Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Dr. Tai Solarin, two icons of Nigerian education. Awolowo pioneered the free education program in Western Nigeria, while Solarin dedicated his life to teaching and leadership at Mayflower School in Ikenne.
“It is an opportunity for the Federal Government to honor Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who began the revolutionary free education program in Western Nigeria, and Dr. Tai Solarin, who spent most of his life educating our children and impacting patriotic and leadership lessons in them,” President Tinubu said.
He also acknowledged the Awujale of Ijebuland for his role in preventing the university’s closure in 2012, seven years after its establishment.
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Kaduna Governor Facilitates Land Acquisition
Governor Uba Sani played a critical role in ensuring the timely issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy and the transfer of ownership to the Federal Government. His swift action helped accelerate the process, demonstrating his commitment to advancing education in Southern Kaduna.
University’s Controversial Backstory
The university’s transformation followed a directive from President Tinubu after a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja ordered the final forfeiture of Nok University, Kachia, and other assets linked to its promoter, Anthony Hassan.
Hassan, a former finance director at the Federal Ministry of Health, was accused by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of using illicit funds to establish the university and other businesses, including Gwasmyen Water Factory, Gwasmyen International Hotel, and Gwasmyen Event Centre.
After failing to prove the assets were legally acquired, Justice Abdulmalik ruled in favor of the EFCC, leading to the university’s takeover by the Federal Government.
University Set to Open in 2025/2026
The Minister of Education announced that the university is expected to commence operations in the 2025/2026 academic session.
“The Federal Ministry of Education remains committed to ensuring that the university opens its doors to students by the start of the 2025/2026 academic year. Furthermore, plans are already in motion to secure funding for the university from TETFUND,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to Vice President Kashim Shettima for his leadership in driving the project and commended Governor Sani for his dedication to improving educational opportunities in Kaduna State.
With the land officially transferred and preparations underway, the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, is set to become a vital institution for applied sciences and technology education in Nigeria.