On Monday, President Bola Tinubu signed into law a bill establishing the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) in Ogoni, Rivers State, and pledged continued support for the community.
A statement from the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, revealed that the university will be located in Ogoni town, Tai.
During the signing ceremony at the State House, President Tinubu emphasized that the establishment of the university would empower Ogoni citizens and create more opportunities for their participation and development.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our national journey towards environmental justice, education and sustainable development.
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“The Ogoni have been at the forefront of our development and agitation and have suffered enough environmental degradation,” the President said.
“It is more than the creation of a university. It is the reaffirmation of our unwavering commitment to the people of Ogoni, the Niger Delta and the entire nation as a whole.
“For decades, the Ogoni people have been at the forefront of the fight for environmental restoration and sustainable development, shaping national and global conversations on these critical issues.
“By signing this bill into law, we are taking a decisive step towards addressing historical grievances and creating new opportunities for learning, growth and prosperity,” he stated.
The President affirmed that the university will “serve as a centre of excellence, equipping young Nigerians with the knowledge and skill to tackle present environmental challenges, drive clean energy solutions and contribute to our national sustainable economic development.”
Tinubu thanked the National Assembly, particularly the Senate and House of Representatives leadership, for properly considering the bill.
“Let me also commend the Ogoni delegation. Your steadfast advocacy for justice is encouraging. It will be rewarded, I assure you.
“As we look ahead, I urge all the stakeholders, traditional institutions, the academic community, the private sector, partners and all other youth to embrace this University as a beacon of knowledge, unity and progress.
“Together, we will ensure that it will not only fulfil its mandate but also stand as a catalyst for transformational development across the country,” the President said.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, stated that the university will focus on interdisciplinary programs in environmental science, clean energy, and sustainable technology, preparing students to address both regional and national ecological challenges.
National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, added that the establishment of the university will help address long-standing issues and efforts aimed at restoring Ogoniland.
Ribadu emphasized the importance of prioritizing Ogoniland for inclusive development and environmental sustainability.
Senator Mpigi Barinada, leader of the Ogoni delegation, expressed gratitude to the President for signing the bill into law and acknowledged the contributions of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and NSA Ribadu in ensuring the bill’s passage.
Barinada noted that the university would serve as a beacon of hope for the Ogoni community, encouraging them to “shield the sword” and embrace peace.