President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the upgrade of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, into the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology, Nasarawa,
A statement by the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga said the upgrade is in line with President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening technical education, developing human capital, and unlocking Nigeria’s vast solid minerals potential.
The decision followed a proposal by Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate.
The lawmaker argued for the establishment of a specialised university that would leverage Nasarawa State’s rich mineral deposits while producing the skilled workforce needed to unlock the sector’s full potential.
According to the presidential directive, the new university will serve as a centre of excellence for teaching, research and innovation in mining, engineering, mineral processing, metallurgy, manufacturing and emerging technologies.
The institution is also expected to train professionals capable of driving value addition in Nigeria’s mining industry, advancing technological development and promoting the sustainable exploitation of the nation’s mineral resources.
The Presidency noted that the conversion reflects President Tinubu’s broader strategy of aligning tertiary education with Nigeria’s economic priorities by creating specialised institutions that address critical manpower needs in key sectors.
To facilitate the transition, the President directed the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other relevant agencies to commence the legal and administrative processes required to implement the upgrade in line with existing laws and regulations.
President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s resolve to continue investing in education as a catalyst for economic growth, technological innovation, job creation and national prosperity.