President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Obio Akpa, in Oruk Anam Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Akpabio expressed his appreciation to President Tinubu for signing the legislation establishing the university, saying he looked forward to the admission of the institution’s pioneer students.
The Senate President also thanked Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, for releasing the Obio Akpa campus of the Akwa Ibom State University to facilitate the immediate commencement of academic activities at the new federal institution.
Akpabio made the remarks during the funeral service of the late former Majority Leader of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Imo Akpan Ibokette.
He recalled that Ibokette was among the first people to celebrate the passage of the legislation establishing the university. Akpabio described the late lawmaker as a patriot and selfless leader who contributed to the development of his community and state.
The establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology is expected to expand access to tertiary education in Akwa Ibom and provide opportunities for students to study agriculture, technology and related disciplines.
Akpabio expressed optimism that academic activities would commence at the institution this year, with the first set of students expected to be admitted once the necessary arrangements are completed.
The development is expected to provide a significant boost to educational opportunities in the senatorial district while also contributing to research and human-capital development.
Governor Eno’s decision to make an existing campus available is expected to facilitate the university’s take-off without waiting for the construction of an entirely new campus before academic activities begin.
The new institution is also expected to strengthen the focus on agriculture and technology, two sectors considered important to Nigeria’s economic development and food security.
Akpabio’s commendation highlights the collaboration between the Federal Government and Akwa Ibom State Government in facilitating the establishment and take-off of the university.
As preparations continue, attention will now shift towards putting the necessary academic and administrative structures in place ahead of the admission of pioneer students.
The establishment of the institution adds to the network of federal universities across Nigeria and is expected to create new educational opportunities for young people in Akwa Ibom and neighbouring states.
