President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, signed into law a historic bill establishing the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) in Ogoni, Rivers State.
The university, which will be located in the town of Tai, is a significant step in empowering the Ogoni people and addressing longstanding environmental and developmental challenges in the Niger Delta region.
At the signing ceremony held at the State House, President Tinubu expressed his commitment to supporting Ogoni and reaffirmed the importance of the university in promoting environmental justice and sustainable development.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our national journey towards environmental justice, education, and sustainable development,” he said. “The Ogoni have been at the forefront of our development and agitation and have suffered enough environmental degradation.”
The creation of FUET is seen as more than just an academic institution; it symbolizes the government’s renewed dedication to addressing the historical grievances of the Ogoni people, who have long been advocating for environmental restoration.
The university will serve as a hub for innovative research in clean energy, environmental science, and sustainable technology, equipping students to confront the challenges of ecological preservation and contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.
“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,” President Tinubu added, recognizing the Ogoni people’s global influence on environmental issues.
He also thanked the National Assembly, particularly the Senate and House of Representatives leadership, for their role in passing the bill.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the university would focus on interdisciplinary programs designed to tackle environmental challenges both locally and nationally.
He noted that FUET would prioritize disciplines such as clean energy, sustainable technology, and environmental science.
National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, also weighed in on the significance of the university’s establishment, highlighting its role in addressing Ogoniland’s environmental concerns and ensuring inclusive development.
Ribadu pointed out that Ogoniland must be prioritized for environmental sustainability, and the university is a key step in that direction.
Senator Mpigi Barinada, the leader of the Ogoni delegation, expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for signing the bill into law.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and NSA Ribadu, who played pivotal roles in facilitating the bill’s passage.
Barinada called the establishment of FUET a “beacon of hope” for the Ogoni community, urging the people to embrace peace and continue their fight for justice.
He encouraged the community to unite and work together for the success of the university, which he believes will inspire growth and development in the region.
With the establishment of FUET, the government aims to create new opportunities for Ogoni citizens and foster a sustainable future for the entire nation.
President Tinubu concluded his speech by urging stakeholders, including traditional institutions, the academic community, and the private sector, to embrace the university as a catalyst for national transformation.