President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted approval to transition the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, into the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology. This initiative aims to strengthen Nigeria’s technical education landscape and maximize the potential of the nation’s solid mineral wealth.
Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, confirmed the move. The change follows a formal proposal by Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who represents Nasarawa West. Senator Wadada emphasized that Nasarawa State is uniquely positioned to host a specialized institution for mining and engineering due to its significant mineral reserves, which could provide the necessary skilled workforce for the sector.
The institution will now shift its focus toward research, innovation, and training in metallurgy, mineral processing, and advanced engineering technologies. It is intended to create professionals who will lead industrial growth and sustainable resource management. The Presidency noted that this decision aligns with the current administration’s goal of tailoring higher education to meet Nigeria’s economic requirements.
To facilitate the transition, President Tinubu has instructed the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Universities Commission to begin the necessary regulatory and administrative steps to formalize the upgrade.
