President Bola Tinubu has signed into law a bill establishing the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) in Rivers State, a move aimed at addressing environmental concerns and fostering development in Ogoniland.
The announcement was made by the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a statement on Monday. According to him, the university will be located in Tai, an Ogoni town, and is expected to play a crucial role in advancing education, environmental sustainability, and clean energy solutions.
Speaking at the signing ceremony at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized that the institution’s establishment represents a major milestone in the country’s efforts toward environmental justice, education, and sustainable development.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our national journey towards environmental justice, education, and sustainable development. The Ogoni people have been at the forefront of our development and agitation and have suffered enough environmental degradation,” Tinubu said.
The President stressed that beyond creating a university, the initiative is a reaffirmation of his administration’s commitment to the Ogoni people, the Niger Delta, and Nigeria as a whole.
“For decades, the Ogoni people have championed the fight for environmental restoration and sustainable development, shaping both national and global conversations on these crucial issues. By signing this bill into law, we are taking a decisive step toward addressing historical grievances and creating new opportunities for learning, growth, and prosperity,” he added.
President Tinubu expressed his gratitude to the National Assembly, particularly the leadership of both the Senate and House of Representatives, for considering and passing the bill. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Ogoni delegation in advocating for justice and development in the region.
“Let me also commend the Ogoni delegation. Your steadfast advocacy for justice is encouraging. It will be rewarded, I assure you,” he stated.
The President called on stakeholders, including traditional institutions, the academic community, the private sector, and the youth to embrace the university as a beacon of knowledge, unity, and progress.
“Together, we will ensure that this university not only fulfills its mandate but also serves as a catalyst for transformational development across the country,” Tinubu said.
Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, highlighted that the new university will prioritize interdisciplinary programs in environmental science, clean energy, and sustainable technology. He stated that the institution will equip students with the necessary skills to tackle regional and national ecological challenges.
Similarly, National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu noted that the university’s establishment is a step toward addressing long-standing concerns in Ogoniland. He emphasized that inclusive development and environmental sustainability should be prioritized in the region.
Senator Mpigi Barinada, who led the Ogoni delegation, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for signing the bill into law. He also recognized the contributions of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and NSA Ribadu in facilitating the bill’s passage.
Barinada described the university as a beacon of hope for the Ogoni people and urged the community to embrace peace and development.
“This university will serve as an encouragement for our people to ‘shield the sword’ and work towards unity and progress,” he said.
