- Tinubu Tasks Federal Universities on Sustainable Funding, Infrastructure Upgrade
- Musdafa described FUTO as a leading institution in technology education
- Oti stressed that the university’s governing council remains resolute in protecting FUTO’s land
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on federal universities across the country to develop sustainable funding strategies as part of efforts to tackle the growing infrastructure challenges in Nigeria’s higher education sector, Eko Hot Blog reports.
Speaking at the 37th Convocation Ceremony of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Imo State, the President said his administration is pursuing far-reaching reforms aimed at revitalising tertiary education.
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Tinubu, who was represented by the Vice Chancellor of David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (DUFUHS), Prof. Jesse Uneke, noted that stronger partnerships with universities would ensure improved funding, upgraded facilities, enhanced research capacity, and better welfare for staff and students.
He described the convocation as a celebration of hard work, perseverance and academic excellence, adding that the achievements of the graduating students reflect FUTO’s commitment to high standards.
“Universities remain vital national assets in driving growth and development,” the President said. “This administration is committed to strengthening institutions through partnerships with industry stakeholders to ensure they continue to produce skilled manpower, foster innovation, and contribute meaningfully to national transformation and global competitiveness.”
Tinubu congratulated parents, guardians and families of the graduands, acknowledging the sacrifices and resources invested in preparing the students for meaningful contributions to Nigeria and the global community.
He highlighted some of the administration’s achievements in the past two years, including increased investment in university infrastructure and ongoing efforts to provide solar energy solutions through the Energizing Education Programme (EEP). He added that the Federal Government recently released ₦50 billion for earned academic allowances across federal universities.
In his remarks, the Chancellor of FUTO, HRH Alhaji Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Musdafa, praised the graduands for upholding the virtues of character and learning.
He described FUTO as a leading institution in technology education and commended the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nnenna Oti, for positioning the university at the forefront of research and innovation.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the 13th Governing Council, Sen. Jack Tilley-Gyado, also commended the university administration, noting that FUTO has recorded significant achievements in recent years across various areas of academic development.
Earlier in her address, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oti, welcomed dignitaries and guests to the event and expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, the Imo State Governor, and other officials for honouring the ceremony. She congratulated the 2023/2024 graduating class for their accomplishments.
Prof. Oti also highlighted key challenges facing the institution, including lack of staff quarters, poor internal road networks, and persistent land encroachment.
She stressed that the university’s governing council remains resolute in protecting FUTO’s land, stating that no intimidation or manipulation would force the institution to relinquish its legally allocated property.
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