From Dan Amasingha, Minna

Niger state Governor, Umaru Bago has commended the Federal Government for the official inauguration of the Federal University of Education, Kontagora.

Speaking on Wednesday at the university campus at Kontagora, Bago emphasized the importance of the university and the critical role education plays not just in the local community but across the nation.

Bago expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government for their dedication to advancing education in Nigeria.

He highlighted that the upgrade of the institution to a Federal University of Education will significantly impact the educational landscape of Niger State and Nigeria as a whole.

 “This university is a beacon of hope, promising to shape the future of our nation by training well-equipped educators who will inspire generations,” he remarked.

The governor who was represented by the Special Adviser Governance and Reform Dr. Isah Adamu noted that the new institution is not only an academic center but a hub for intellectual growth, research, and innovation adding that It is designed to produce high-quality educators who will strengthen the nation’s educational system and address the evolving needs of classrooms nationwide.

“By investing in teacher education, we are investing in the future of our communities and the prosperity of Nigeria,” he stated.

Bago, while acknowledging the existing challenges in Nigeria’s education sector, such as inadequate infrastructure and limited resources, expressed optimism that the inauguration of the university is a significant step towards overcoming these obstacles.

According to him, the institution would open doors for quality education, capacity-building, and the development of educators who can make a meaningful impact on society.

The governor urged the management, staff, and students of the university to embrace the responsibility of shaping future leaders with integrity, passion, and dedication. “The journey ahead is filled with potential, and I encourage you all to take up this opportunity to contribute positively to our society,” he said.

Bago further emphasized the socio-economic benefits the university will bring to Kontagora and its surrounding communities. With the influx of students, the university is expected to stimulate local economic growth, create jobs, and foster development. “This is more than an educational investment; it’s a catalyst for social and economic transformation,” he added.

He also expressed appreciation to all stakeholders involved in the establishment of the university, including the Federal Ministry of Education, for their collaborative efforts in bringing this vision to life. The governor called on all government officials, educators, community leaders, and students to work together to ensure the university’s success, noting that it will have long lasting benefits for the state and the nation.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting educational initiatives and emphasized the importance of education as the foundation for Nigeria’s progress. “The Federal University of Education, Kontagora, represents a new chapter for Niger State and Nigeria. Together, let us ensure it becomes a shining light of educational excellence in our country”.

Earlier, the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, stated that President Tinubu’s administration prioritizes education, making it a thematic area, adding that it is the foundation for social transformation and development.

He added that the global shortage of teachers is a major concern, which is why the government is establishing more institutions dedicated to training teachers, aiming to fill the gaps created by brain drain.

Dr. Sununu also encouraged students to take advantage of the student loan program to support their education, stressing that financial constraints should not prevent any student from completing their studies.