The Federal College of Education Pankshin, Plateau State, has been upgraded to the status of the Federal University of Education with a total take-off grant of N10 billion.
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony of the university at the college, the Chairman House Representatives Committee on Navy, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, who sponsored the bill that facilitated the transition of the college to a full-fledged university, commended President Bola Tinubu for making the university a reality, reports Nigerian Tribune.
Hon. Gargdi appreciated all those who supported him along the line, adding that the transition was a collective effort and calling on all the relevant stakeholders in the state to join hands in nurturing the university to a level that will make it stand out as one of the best citadels of learning beyond the country.
He equally cautioned against unnecessary politicking on the leadership of the institution, adding that as a baby university, it deserved the best to grow to an enviable position.
“The federal government has approved the sum of N10 million as a take-off grant for this university; its growth should be a collective responsibility; all stakeholders should be involved. The state government should not see it as a federal institution but as its own baby, which must be nurtured.”
He narrated that an attempt was made at certain stages to frustrate the transition of the college to a university, adding that through lobbying and understanding of the presidency, the bill was eventually signed by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“I have surrendered myself to the people of this constituency, and I will not relent in my efforts toward uplifting the standard of living and wellbeing of my people. Attempts were made to frustrate the bill along the line, but through lobbying, we got it signed.
“But with full transition today I have been vindicated; initially some people thought I was using it for politics. But today it has become a reality; I will not relent in bringing the dividend of democracy to my constituency. Any politician that does not want the Central Zone, especially its capital, Pankshin, to develop doesn’t mean well for the zone and the state as a whole.”
Hon Gagdi who is representing Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam federal constituency of Plateau State also debunked the insinuation that he is fronting for someone to become the pioneer vice chancellor of the university, adding that his concern is about the university’s growth, not who becomes the vice-chancellor.
“I am appealing to the political class to keep me out of the blackmail; I am not interested in who becomes anything. Let God give us the best.”
The Chairman of the Governing Council of the University, Dr. Folorunsho Olumoko, tasked the ministerial assessment committee to the university to do a thorough assessment and to ensure that necessary facilities are out in place for the successful takeoff of the university.
He said, “Your role is important for the successful takeover of this university; your dedication and expertise are very paramount in this regard. I therefore charge you to be meticulous in the process of your assignment for the purpose of academic excellence through research initiative.”
The Senator representing Plateau Central, Senator Diket Plant, commended Hon. Gargdi for his efforts toward ensuring the university becomes a reality, adding that it is now the duty of other stakeholders to nurture the university.
