Niger State Governor, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has said that the State will set up the first Sub-National Research Institute in Nigeria at the Abdulkadir Kure University (AKU), Minna.
The Governor disclosed this at the maiden edition of the matriculation ceremony of AKU Minna for the 2023/2024 Academic session.
He said the Research Institute will be for Agriculture, Science, and innovation.
The Governor also revealed that the State has secured N15 billion for the construction of hostels and the Senate building in addition to N500 million given as support for the successful take off of additional six Faculties.
While congratulating the 86 first set of students of AKU for a successful matriculation, Farmer Umaru Bago announced that each of the Students will be given a Million Naira each as Scholarship.
Governor Umaru Bago also reminded the students that indiscipline will not be tolerated, announcing that scholarship slots will be given to 50 students that would be found worthy in character and learning, studying Medicine and it related courses.
He said the State hopes to attract lecturers and Professors to the Institution as it has secured scholarships and exchange programmes for some lecturers and students of the Institution.
The Vice Chancellor of AKU Minna, Prof. Muhammad Aliyu Paiko, in his remarks said the event is a significant milestone in the Institution, and commended Farmer Governor Umaru Bago’s commitment to expanding the frontiers of education.
He described the Farmer Governor as a beacon of hope for the State.
Prof. Aliyu Paiko also disclosed that the National Universities Commission, NUC will revisit the University by November 15 for verification of 6 other Faculties.
The Pro-Chancellor of AKU Minna, Prof. Mohammed Kuta Yahaya, was full of commendation to Farmer Governor Bago for his vision to establish the University which he said is a pride to the State.
Prof. Kuta Yahaya said the University’s Council is working steadfastly to ensure that all the necessary measures are put in place to make the University a world-class Institution.
