President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the conversion of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, into the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology, Nasarawa, in a move aimed at strengthening technical education and boosting Nigeria’s solid minerals sector.
The approval followed a proposal by Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District, urging the Federal Government to establish a specialised institution that would harness the state’s abundant mineral resources while producing the skilled workforce required to drive the industry’s growth.
Announcing the decision in a statement on Saturday, Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga said the upgrade aligns with President Tinubu’s commitment to developing human capital and positioning Nigeria to maximise the economic benefits of its vast solid mineral deposits.
According to the Presidency, the new university will serve as a centre of excellence for teaching, research and innovation in mining, engineering, mineral processing, metallurgy, manufacturing and emerging technologies.
It is also expected to produce highly skilled professionals capable of advancing value addition in the mining industry, promoting technological innovation and supporting the sustainable exploitation of Nigeria’s mineral resources.
The Presidency described the conversion as part of the administration’s broader strategy of aligning tertiary education with national economic priorities through the establishment of specialised institutions focused on critical sectors.
To ensure a seamless transition, President Tinubu directed the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC) and other relevant agencies to begin the legal and administrative processes required to implement the upgrade in accordance with existing laws.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in education as a driver of economic growth, technological advancement, job creation and national development.
The decision is expected to enhance Nasarawa State’s position as a strategic hub for mining education and research, while supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to diversify the economy through the solid minerals sector.