THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially handed over the assets and property of Nok University, Kachia, Kaduna State, to the Federal Government.
At a ceremony held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukayode presented the institution’s documents to the Minister of Education.
The event was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, and other key stakeholders, including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.
In June 2024, a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the final forfeiture of the university, which was previously owned by a private individual.
Following the ruling, President Bola Tinubu directed the Federal Government to take over the institution and convert it into a Federal University of Applied Sciences.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to drive development in Southern Kaduna, a region that has faced challenges due to insecurity.
Speaking at the event, Vice President Shettima emphasized the administration’s commitment to national development and inclusivity.
“This is a significant day for Nigeria and Kaduna State. The credit goes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing this initiative as the first agenda item of the Federal Executive Council. We must learn to live together as brothers, or we risk perishing as fools,” he stated.
Shettima also acknowledged key figures instrumental in the transition process, including General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs, and Senator Sunday Marshall.
He particularly lauded Bishop Kukah for his unwavering dedication to fostering peace and progress in the region.
The Vice President assured that the university’s operations would commence immediately, revealing that the President had instructed the Minister of Education to include the institution in the 2025 budget to enable its first student intake by September 2025.
Governor Sani expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for making the Federal University of Applied Sciences a reality.
He described the handover as a historic moment for the people of Kaduna and Nigeria as a whole.
Sani reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence and inclusive governance across the state.
EFCC Chairman Olukayode highlighted that the court’s ruling granted the final forfeiture of all university assets, including academic buildings, a water factory, an international hotel, and an event center.
“We are here today to execute the Federal Executive Council’s resolution of February 4, 2025, by officially transferring the university’s property for use as the newly established Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia,” Olukayode stated.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the university’s establishment as a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s human capital development in education, health, and social welfare.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, also commended the initiative, calling it a “historic day” for Southern Kaduna and the nation.
He emphasized that the university would benefit all Nigerians and play a crucial role in fostering peace and development in the region.
“This is not just for the people of Kaduna; it is a national project that will enhance capacity-building across the country. Everyone in Kaduna is excited about this achievement, which will contribute to long-term stability in the region,” he said.
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