The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • FUT Daura matriculates 580 students, unveils plans for maritime, aviation programmes

    FUT Daura matriculates 580 students, unveils plans for maritime, aviation programmes

    The Federal University of Transportation, Daura (FUTD), Katsina State, has matriculated 580 newly admitted students and announced plans to expand its academic offerings to include programmes in maritime engineering and aviation technology.

    The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Umar Adam-Katsayal, disclosed this during the university’s third matriculation ceremony held in Daura. He said additional programmes earmarked for expansion include transportation security, smart transport systems, signal and control systems technology, and sustainable urban mobility.

    According to Adam-Katsayal, the university is making steady progress and is on course to complete the first phase of its growth pathway by 2028.

    He added that FUTD plans to integrate modern technology into teaching and learning through the introduction of smart classrooms and the expansion of virtual learning platforms to cater to its growing student population.

    The vice-chancellor also noted that sustainability initiatives, including solar-powered facilities and the development of a green campus, are being prioritised, while efforts are ongoing to strengthen collaborations with strategic partners.

    “The university is witnessing expansion in students’ enrolment, campus infrastructure, including lecture halls, laboratories, workshops, and staff accommodations.

    “Short and executive courses will soon be introduced to satisfy the needs of the working class and executive officers.

    ”We are also planning to intensify research efforts in autonomous vehicles and green logistics, as well as sustain staff capacity building and industry partnerships,” the V-C said.

    He stated that achievements and prospects are being recorded despite some challenges in running the institution’s affairs, urging the new students to embrace the core values the university stands for.

    The V-C said that the values will not only guide them through their academic sojourn, but will also shape them into becoming the future leaders in the transportation ecosystem.

    “You must therefore avoid all forms of social vices such as drug abuse, bullying, cultism, examination misconduct, theft, fighting, and be good ambassadors of your family.

    “Take note that the matriculation oath you have been administered will guide you, and the university will employ it in making decisions on any act of misconduct.

    “I therefore strongly state here that the university will not take it lightly with violators of its set rules and regulations,” Adam-Katsayal warned the students

  • ‎Modibbo Adama University confers honorary doctorate on Gov Otu ‎

    ‎Modibbo Adama University confers honorary doctorate on Gov Otu ‎

    Cross River Governor Bassey Otu was at the weekend conferred with an Honorary Doctorate by the Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola, in recognition of what the institution described as his far-reaching contributions to governance, public service and humanitarian development across Nigeria. 

    ‎The honour was conferred during its combined 29th and 30th convocation ceremonies.

    ‎The conferment of the Doctor of Humanities (Honoris Causa) followed the collective approval of the University Senate and Governing Council, a decision described by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Umar, as “a unanimous academic salute to a life of service defined by integrity, inclusion and measurable societal impact.” 

    ‎According to him: “This honour is reserved for leaders whose influence transcends office and geography, touching lives and strengthening institutions.”

    ‎Prof. Umar noted that Governor Otu’s public career exemplifies people-centred leadership and humane governance. 

    “His approach to power has been guided by compassion and conscience,” the Vice-Chancellor said. “Governor Otu has consistently demonstrated that governance is not merely about authority, but about responsibility to humanity.”

    ‎The University stated that the object of the award was to celebrate Governor Otu’s outstanding contributions to social development, national cohesion and humanitarian service, adding that his leadership philosophy resonates strongly with the core values of Modibbo Adama University. “He is a bridge-builder in public life,” Prof. Umar observed, “a leader whose governance prioritises inclusion, institutional strengthening and sustainable development.”

    ‎In his acceptance remarks, Otu described the award as “a profound affirmation that service to humanity is the highest credential any leader can earn.” 

    He added: “I receive this doctorate not as a personal trophy, but as a tribute to the collective efforts of all those who believe that governance must uplift the human spirit.”

    ‎Otu further reflected on the responsibility that accompanies such recognition. “An honorary doctorate is not a destination; it is a renewed call to duty,” he said. 

    “It challenges one to deepen the commitment to justice, equity and compassion in public life. Today, Modibbo Adama University has reminded me that leadership must always be accountable to the people it serves.”

    ‎Touching on education and national development, the Governor remarked that universities remain the soul of any progressive society. “Institutions like MAU are not just centres of learning; they are crucibles where the future of our nation is forged,” he noted. “I dedicate this honour to young Nigerians whose dreams depend on leadership that is purposeful and humane.”

    ‎He also paid tributes to the University for what he described as its “courage to celebrate values, not just titles.” According to him, “by honouring service, integrity and humanity, Modibbo Adama University has reinforced the moral compass of leadership in Nigeria.”

    ‎“I would be remiss if I departed this historic gathering without saluting my brother and friend, Professor Afolabi Ogufekun,” Governor Otu declared. “I made it a personal duty to be here today, no matter the circumstances, because he is a man I hold in the highest esteem—both for the depth of his intellect and the strength of his character.”

    ‎Reflecting on Professor Ogufekun’s impact, the Governor added, “I have followed with keen interest the remarkable work he has done here in Adamawa State. His contributions speak loudly and stand worthy of emulation. For some of us who are relatively new in leadership, these are the kind of exemplary footsteps we are eager to follow and carry forward.”

    Read Also: Gov Otu inaugurates rural development officers, urges them to be worthy ambassadors

    ‎Otu also commended the Modibbo Adama University community for its academic vitality and discipline. “I must sincerely thank the entire university family,” he said, “from the security personnel I encountered today, to the impressive body of students whose performances clearly rise above average. What I have seen here reassures me that this institution is firmly on a path of growth and excellence.”

    ‎Expressing optimism about the future of the University, he noted, “With the calibre of leadership and commitment evident here, I am confident that Modibbo Adama University will continue to expand in stature, influence and scholarly relevance.”

    ‎The Governor concluded on a note of gratitude and fellowship, saying, “I deeply appreciate all those who journeyed with me to witness this memorable occasion. Your presence has added meaning to this honour, and I remain profoundly grateful for the solidarity and goodwill that surround this moment.”

    ‎The Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate and staff, expressed gratitude for Governor Otu’s contributions to national development. “We are proud to be associated with a leader whose legacy speaks beyond politics,” Prof. Umar said, adding that the University “looks forward to sustained engagement with leaders who inspire hope and unity.”

    ‎The ceremony concluded on an atmosphere of academic splendour and civic pride, as Modibbo Adama University reaffirmed its tradition of recognising excellence in service. For Governor Bassey Edet Otu, today’s honour stood not only as a laurel of achievement, but as an enduring reminder that true leadership is measured by its impact on humanity.

  • JAMB denies barring undergraduates from UTME

    JAMB denies barring undergraduates from UTME

    • Warns against Misinformation

    • UTME to hold in 1,000 CBT Centres

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has refuted claims that candidates who have already matriculated or are currently studying in universities are barred from sitting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

    Speaking in Port Harcourt during a monitoring visit for the ongoing registration exercise after attending the second matriculation ceremony of Wigwe University, JAMB Registrar Prof  Is-haq Oloyode described the reports as deliberate misinformation being peddled by fraudsters.

    He said: “There is a lot of misinformation out there. It is completely untrue that candidates who have matriculated or are already in a university cannot take UTME,” Oluyode said.

    “Those spreading this falsehood are not JAMB officials,” he added.

    He disclosed that some individuals had gone as far as impersonating JAMB officials and addressing press conferences in the name of the Board.

    READ ALSO: The Economist: Nigeria’s economy moving from the brink

    “One of the ringleaders behind this misinformation has already been arrested, including the individual who manufactured fake identity cards. They were even purporting to speak as the Registrar of JAMB.”

    Clarifying JAMB’s position, Oloyede stressed that students already admitted into tertiary institutions retain the right to seek a change of course or institution.

    “A student who has matriculated has the right to decide to change his course or university, or even start afresh,” he explained.

    “What we insist on is disclosure. Our data must be accurate, but nobody can take away a candidate’s right to apply again.”

    He noted that over 800,000 candidates were admitted in the previous admission cycle, with some seeking to change their academic paths.

    “If we are not careful, we could assume that 800,000 are already in school and then admit another one million without proper data reconciliation,” Oluyode said.

    “That is why disclosure is important.

    “They (undergraduates) can apply and write JAMB. What you cannot do is run two undergraduate programmes at the same time.”

    On examination malpractice, the JAMB Registrar said the trend was declining but had not yet reached an acceptable level.

    “Malpractice is not increasing; it is coming down,” he said. “As candidates devise new methods, we are also deploying solutions to ensure they fail.”

    Oloyede also warned parents against encouraging dishonest practices.

    “Parents must encourage their children to be honest,” he said. “Some of these young people are only following the footsteps of their parents. Corruption must not be passed from one generation to another.”

    Addressing concerns about JAMB’s preparedness, he explained that challenges experienced in 2025 were due to lapses that had since been corrected.

    “The incidents of 2025 were a matter of negligence—things that should have been done were not done,” he said. “We have learnt our lessons.

    “For instance, claims that albinos will not be registered this year are false. Those loopholes have been blocked.”

    He added that there are currently about 984 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide, a number expected to increase to about 1,000, and reiterated that registration would close on 28 February without extension.

  • Wellington College launches campus in Lagos

    Wellington College launches campus in Lagos

    Wellington College International has officially launched its Lagos campus, with executives underscoring education as a critical driver of long-term development and human capital growth across Africa.

    The launch, held at the Metropolitan Club on Thursday, brought together senior leaders from Wellington College Education, city developer Rendeavour, Lagos State government officials, business executives, and members of the diplomatic community.

    Managing Director of the College, Paresh Thakrar, said the Lagos campus represents a significant step in extending world-class education to Africa.

    “The partnership with Rendeavour combines international school expertise with large-scale urban development experience, creating a strong foundation for educational excellence and innovation,” he said.

    He explained that the school will offer a holistic learning model designed to develop intellect, character, and leadership, while equipping students with modern skills in technology, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship.

    Thakrar noted that the campus will be located in Alaro City, a 2,000-hectare master-planned development within the Lekki Free Zone, created through a public-private partnership between Rendeavour and the Lagos State Government.

    Read Also: College matriculates 688 students

    He added that the College is scheduled to open in September 2027 and will operate as a coeducational day and boarding institution for up to 1,500 students aged three to 18.

    Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Rendeavour, Stephen Jennings, emphasised the importance of investing in human capital to drive Africa’s long-term development.

    “Africa’s greatest opportunity lies in the potential of its people, and education is the foundation on which long-term development is built,” he said.

    Jennings added that new cities should be designed to unlock human potential, rather than merely provide physical infrastructure, describing the Lagos school as a strategic investment in future leadership and economic growth.

    Chairman of Rendeavour West Africa, Yomi Ademola, said the inclusion of an international school was part of Alaro City’s original master plan.

    “Education will play a central role in the city’s long-term social and economic impact,” he added.

    Officials said the launch signals the start of a long-term educational investment aimed at strengthening communities and preparing future generations for leadership in a rapidly changing world.

  • TASFUED defends honorary degree awards, says process follows longstanding tradition

    TASFUED defends honorary degree awards, says process follows longstanding tradition

    The management of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education (TASFUED) has clarified its position on the conferment of honorary degrees, affirming that the practice aligns with the institution’s established tradition.

    In a statement issued on Friday titled “Award of Honouraria Causa by the Tai Solarin Federal University of Education: Putting the Records Straight,” the university’s Registrar and Secretary to Council, Dapo Oke, said recent honorary awards were granted in line with long-standing institutional norms.

    Oke noted that the university was concerned about what it described as malicious and misleading media reports aimed at creating discord and misinforming the public over the conferment of Honorary Doctorate Degrees.

    “The management of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education (TASFUED), Ijagun, Ogun State, notes with utmost concern recent, malicious, and deliberately misleading publications circulating in the media aimed at sowing discord and misinforming the public regarding the institution’s conferment of Honorary Doctorate Degrees,” the statement read.

    He stressed that the process for awarding honorary degrees follows due procedure and reflects the university’s commitment to recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to national development.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, and to set the record unequivocally straight, the University affirms that its longstanding tradition has been to confer an Honorary Doctorate Degree on   Civilian Governors of Ogun State, in recognition of their Executive stewardship and support for public Education.

    “This tradition is a matter of verifiable public record.

    “His Excellency, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, the visionary founder of this University, was rightly honoured as the first serving Governor to receive the award in 2010.

    “His successor, His Excellency, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, was similarly honoured.

    Read Also: TASFUED to confer honorary doctorate on Oluremi Tinubu for educational advocacy

    “Furthermore, the scope of this honour extends beyond State governance to celebrate exemplary national and global contributions.

    “During the University’s 10th Anniversary in 2015, distinguished figures, including former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, and Alhaji Aliko Dangote, CON, were duly honoured. Others are Sir Kensington Adebutu, Asiwaju Adebola Adegunwa,Dr Tunde Lemo, among others,” he said.

    Oke added that in the established context, the recent conferment upon Prince (Dr.) Dapo Abiodun, CON, the Governor of Ogun State, is neither anomalous nor extraordinary.

    He said that it is a continuation of a consistent institutional practice applied to all Civilian Governors of the State.

    Oke added, “Regarding Aremo Olusegun Osoba, CFR, his historic and indelible contribution is separately and highly esteemed.

    “His signature, as Governor during the Third Republic, enacted the legislative bill that transformed the former Tai Solarin College of Education into a Degree-awarding institution—a pivotal act in our institutional metamorphosis.

    “It must also be clarified that this recognition is not exclusive to Governors. The University has, over time, honoured all Paramount Rulers in Ogun State, alongside other preeminent Nigerians whose transformative contributions have significantly advanced national development.

    “The Management, therefore, condemns in strong terms this attempt to distort facts and stir unnecessary disaffection. We urge the public to disregard this misinformation and affirm our unwavering commitment to recognising excellence and distinguished service in accordance with our established traditions and institutional prerogative.”

  • Call for transparency in Poly rector’s appointment

    Call for transparency in Poly rector’s appointment

    A group under the aegis of Cross River Leaders of Thought has called for transparency in the appointment of a new rector for Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, Cross River State.

    The group, in a statement signed by its Spokesman, Francis Ewa warned that the “integrity of the process must not be sacrificed on the altar of politics.”

    ​The Federal Ministry of Education is expected to finalise the appointment of a new rector for the institution soon.

    Stakeholders remain firm that upholding the interview results is the only way to affirm that excellence remains the governing principle for academic leadership in Nigeria.

    Read Also: Alausa urges innovation, governance reforms in polys

    The group criticised what it described as external political pressure, allegedly involving high-profile figures, over the appointment of a new Rector for the polytechnic.

    The statement noted that the polytechnic’s Registrar, Bursar, and Librarian were all appointed based on top scores.

    It warned that departing from the merit-based results would contradict President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda, which emphasises competence and transparency in public institutions.

  • Kano Reps member Bichi rebuilds school, hires 180 teachers

    Kano Reps member Bichi rebuilds school, hires 180 teachers

    Hon. Abubakar Kabir Abubakar Bichi, Member of the House of Representatives for Bichi Federal Constituen-cy, Kano State, and Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, has commissioned the reconstructed Hagagawa Mega Primary School in Bichi Local Government Area.

    Hagagawa Primary School, which was established in 1930, had fallen into a state of serious disrepair and was on the verge of collapse before the comprehensive reconstruction.

    In addition to the school project, the lawmaker announced the employment of 180 additional classroom teachers, who will be deployed across primary schools in Bichi Local Government Area to strengthen teaching capacity.

    Read Also: Kano killing and the menace of drugs abuse

    With this latest engagement, the total number of teachers employed by Hon. Bichi has increased to 500, each earning a monthly salary of ₦60,000. This brings his monthly expenditure on teachers’ salaries to ₦30 million, amounting to ₦360 million annually.

    Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Bichi reaffirmed commitment to improving education infra-structure, pledging to construct similar model schools in Danzabuwa (Bichi North), Saye (Bichi East) and Ci-ranci communities.

    Teachers’ and students’ associations across the local government commended the lawmaker for his sustained investment in education and human capital development.

    As part of the reconstruction, Bichi provided upgraded classrooms, a computer laboratory, a modern library, recreational facilities, and a mini-stadium designed to promote sports and extracurricular activities among pupils.

  • Unilag SPGS Dean, OsInubi urges PhD graduates to lead with impact

    Unilag SPGS Dean, OsInubi urges PhD graduates to lead with impact

    PhD graduates of the University of Lagos have been urged to lead ethically, give generously, and use their scholarship to address real-life challenges.

    Professor Abraham Osinubi, Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies (SPGS), delivered the charge during a special Pre-Convocation Hooding Ceremony recently.

    Professor Osinubi told the graduands that the PhD degree comes with a profound responsibility: to ask difficult questions, challenge assumptions, and uphold truth and ethical leadership in an increasingly complex world.

    Read Also: NELFUND disburses N1.33bn to UNILAG to cover 6,308 students loans

    He stressed that knowledge is not power until it is applied, urging them to ensure their research is purposeful, impactful, and addresses societal needs.

    Acknowledging the years of hard work, resilience, and personal sacrifice that led to their academic success, the Dean also encouraged the graduands to mentor others, support research, and serve as ambassadors of the university across the globe. “The world needs your contribution, and history will judge what you do with this knowledge,” he said.

    The ceremony was part of the University of Lagos’ celebration of the achievements of its doctoral graduates, recognising their perseverance and commitment to intellectual excellence.

  • TETFund sponsors 185 workers in MAU Yola

    TETFund sponsors 185 workers in MAU Yola

    The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has sponsored no fewer than 185 teaching and non-teaching workers of Modibbo Adama University (MAU) Yola for training programmes.

    Its vice-chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Umar, stated this at a news conference marking the 29th and 30th combined convocation ceremony on Tuesday in Yola.

    He said many other workers were presently undergoing various local and international training.

    “We have been working assiduously on staff welfare and capacity building as integral parts of our overall reform agenda.

    “We have introduced interest-free loans, burial financial support for families of staff who die in active service.

    “At this juncture, I want to most sincerely thank the Federal Government, the Adamawa Government, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), the North-East Development Commission (NEDC), the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS), security agencies, all our partners, the National Assembly”, he said.

    READ ALSO: SL Akintola: Time is a healer

    Umar further said the university, during the period under review, graduated a total of 7,094 with 116 first class, 1,798 second class upper, 2,978 second class lower, 809 third class and three pass.

    He also appreciated the National University Commission (NUC) for the recent approval of 20 new academic programmes courses.

    The VC said that in line with the programme for the ceremony, there would be a pre-convocation lecture tomorrow by Prof. Umaru Pate, Vice-Chancellor of Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State.

    “The title of his lecture is, “Building Trust Amidst Conflict Communication, Leadership and the Promise of Peaceful Coexistence in Nigeria,” he said

  • AI won’t replace lecturers, says don

    AI won’t replace lecturers, says don

    A lecturer, Malam Abdulkadir Danlami, has argued that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will not replace lecturers but strengthens their roles as facilitators of knowledge to learners.

    Danlami is the Director, Information and Communication Technology, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi.

    He stated this during a one-day training workshop on the Distinction Application Learning Platforms for academic staff organised by the institution, yesterday in Bauchi.

    According to Danlami, AI is no longer a future concept but already influencing how content is created, delivered, assessed and improved.

    “In education, AI supports personalised learning, intelligent feedback, improved course design and better understanding of student engagement.

    “As lecturers, we must therefore, evolve beyond traditional teaching methods and embrace tools that enhance both teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes.

    READ ALSO: SL Akintola: Time is a healer

    “Importantly, AI does not replace the lecturer; rather, it supports and strengthens our role as facilitators of knowledge and mentors to learners.

    “The Distinction App, which is the focus of this workshop, is a practical platform that aligns with these global trends,” he said.

    Danlami emphasised that the training was designed to make course creation easier, learning more engaging and teaching more impactful.

    The training, he said, would build capacity of lecturers to embrace AI in their teachings and the way they interact with students.

    Danlami said the institution’s portal service provider developed the App, to give the lecturers AI tools that would help in generating notes, quizzes and interact with students both online and offline.

    “There are 50 participants drawn from various faculties of the university as we can’t accommodate all of them at once but the training is going to be a continuous so as to benefit all the academic staff,” he said.

    Stakeholder’s stance

    The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Garba, said in the rapidly evolving landscape of tertiary education, AI has emerged as a game-changer, revolutionising how to teach, learn and innovate.

    Represented by Dr Dauda Bakum, University Libertarian, Garba, said embracing the evolution positioned ATBU not as followers, but as pioneers, ensuring its graduates thrive in an AI-infused world while elevating the institution’s global standing.

    “By training you, our trainers, as the vanguard of Distinction AI adoption, we multiply its impact across our faculties, igniting a culture of digital proficiency that will distinguish ATBU in technology and innovation.

    “To our participants, I charge you with enthusiasm and responsibility. Master these tools and lead the AI revolution in ATBU.

    “Together, we will shape the future of tertiary education in Nigeria and beyond,” he said.