By Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Stakeholders in Southern Kaduna have expressed their gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for approving a federal university to be sited in the zone, stating that they lack adequate words to thank the president for the milestone project.
The stakeholders, under the Southern Kaduna Journalists’ Forum (SKJF), in a statement by its Chairman, Ango Bally, also commended the synergy among Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, the Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, Sunday Marshall Katung, and the Member representing Zango Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency, Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji. They noted that the inclusive support from the governor contributed to this milestone achievement.
“We wish to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting presidential approval for the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences and a Federal Medical Centre in the Southern Kaduna region.
“We also commend the remarkable synergy between Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, and Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji, whose historic legislative bills and inclusive support from the governor resulted in the milestone achievement of these two projects.
“We are delighted to note that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has consented to the two pivotal bills: the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, sponsored by Senator Katung, and the creation of a Federal Medical Centre, initiated by Hon. Magaji.
“These landmark developments are poised to transform the socio-economic and educational landscape, providing easier access to quality and affordable healthcare for the people of Southern Kaduna, the state, and Nigeria at large.
“The Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, which is also expected to have another campus in Manchok, Kaura LGA, will not only provide access to quality education and technical expertise for our youth but also position the region as a hub for innovation and skills development.
“It is noteworthy that establishing a federal university in Southern Kaduna goes beyond academics. It is undoubtedly a beacon of hope and a strong statement of the current government’s policy of inclusion. For decades, the Southern Kaduna region has faced challenges of marginalisation and underdevelopment.
“The university also represents a turning point, signalling that our region is finally being recognised for its human capital potential and contributions to nation-building, a clear departure from past administrations.
“Likewise, the Federal Medical Centre, when established, will significantly enhance healthcare delivery, ensuring access to critical medical services for communities across the state and neighbouring states.
“The SKJF applauds the exemplary collaboration demonstrated by Governor Uba Sani, Senator Katung, and Hon. Magaji in prioritising the collective interests of the people over partisan affiliations. This unity of purpose underscores the transformative potential of cooperative governance in addressing the needs of the populace, which is the essence of purposeful politics.
“We extend our profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognising the strategic importance of these institutions in fostering development and inclusivity in Kaduna State, as encapsulated in his ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’.
“We also specifically thank Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, who broke the news of the presidential assent of the two projects on 28 December 2023 during a condolence visit to Southern Kaduna over the death of Agwom Akulu of Ikulu Chiefdom and a family member of Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto.
“We note with satisfaction and a sense of inclusion the pledge by Vice President Shettima that ‘the federal government will work with the state government to ensure that development reaches Southern Kaduna, particularly in road infrastructure.’
“As custodians of information and public opinion, the SKJF pledges to continue supporting initiatives that prioritise the welfare of our communities and to advocate for policies that promote development, peace, and unity in Southern Kaduna, Kaduna State, and the country as a whole,” the statement said.