A Professor in the Department of Geography at the Kaduna State University, John Laah, has defended the proposed Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, stressing that it would benefit all Nigerians, not just the people of Southern Kaduna.
During an interactive session with journalists in Kaduna on Wednesday, Laah, speaking on behalf of the Forum of Southern Kaduna Professors, praised Senator Sunday Marshall for initiating the bill to establish the university. He expressed optimism that President Bola Tinubu would soon sign the bill into law.
Laah explained that the choice of Kachia as the university’s location was based on several factors, including existing infrastructure, security, a cosmopolitan population, and cost reduction.
Addressing concerns that the university was initially proposed for Manchok, Laah noted that the decision to change the location was driven by the desire to minimise obstacles and reduce costs.
He said, “We are thrilled that Senator Marshall has taken the lead in establishing this university. It’s a game-changer for our region and Nigeria as a whole.
“Nok University, which has five faculties, is already located in Kachia. Utilising this existing infrastructure reduces the financial burden. Additionally, Kachia has a military establishment, ensuring necessary security. It’s also more cosmopolitan than Manchok, making it an ideal location.
“We initially proposed Manchok, but realised that using existing infrastructure in Kachia would save costs. We’re not abandoning Manchok, but rather, we’re capitalising on what’s already available.”
Laah emphasised that the university is a federal institution open to all Nigerians, not exclusive to Southern Kaduna.
On the economic benefits, Laah highlighted the potential for ginger research, job creation, and regional development.
“This is not a Southern Kaduna University of Applied Sciences; it’s a Federal University of Applied Sciences. The admission policy will follow that of other federal universities, giving everyone in Nigeria a chance to attend.
“Kachia is known for its ginger production. The university can facilitate research to improve the crop, creating jobs and stimulating growth in the region,” Laah added.
He further stated that stakeholders, including traditional rulers, academics, and the Southern Kaduna leadership council, support the university’s establishment, adding that the Academic Staff Union of Universities has not objected to the proposal.
As the bill awaits presidential assent, stakeholders remain optimistic about the university’s potential to drive growth and development.
“We are eager to see this university become a reality. It’s a beacon of hope for our region and Nigeria,” Laah added.