TINUBU APPROVES SEPTEMBER 2025 TAKE-OFF FOR NEW FEDERAL UNIVERSITY IN RIVERS STATE

The Federal Government has officially inaugurated the Governing Council and Principal Officers of the Federal University of Environment and Technology, Koroma/Saakpenwa, Rivers State, paving the way for the institution’s first academic session in September 2025.

The inauguration ceremony took place at the TETFund Auditorium, Abuja, with the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, CON, describing the new university as a strategic response to urgent environmental challenges.

Located in the heart of Nigeria’s resource base, the institution will focus on cutting-edge research in environmental sciences, renewable energy, climate change adaptation, disaster risk management, and sustainable technology.

Although the project was not captured in the 2025 national budget, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, directed that funds be sourced for immediate take-off, a move backed by TETFund’s approval of a special grant.

Dr. Alausa charged the Governing Council to provide visionary, merit-based leadership, uphold institutional autonomy, and resist undue interference while prioritising academic excellence, faculty development, strategic partnerships, and community engagement.

Representing the Minister of the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud Bunkure—on behalf of Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike—described the new university as a beacon of innovation and practical solutions.

Other dignitaries, including Permanent Secretary Abel Olumuyiwa Enitan, Senator Barry Mpigi, NUC’s Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, and Pro-Chancellor Prof. Don Mon Baridam, pledged full support for the institution.

The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to funding, research, and education reforms to establish the university as a world-class centre of excellence.