Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has announced plans to establish Nigeria’s first sub-national Research Institute at Abdulkadir Kure University (AKU) in Minna.
The institute will focus on agriculture, science, and innovation, positioning the university as a hub for cutting-edge research and development.
The announcement was made during the maiden matriculation ceremony of AKU for the 2023/2024 academic session on Saturday.
The Niger state governor revealed that the state has secured N15 billion for the construction of hostels and a Senate building at the university, alongside N500 million to support the launch of six new faculties.
Congratulating the 86 pioneer students of AKU, Governor Bago announced a scholarship of N1 million for each student.
He further emphasized that discipline is key, noting that 50 additional scholarship slots will be available for students in medicine and related fields who demonstrate excellence in both character and learning.
The state government is also working to attract top-tier lecturers and professors to the institution, with scholarships and exchange programs for both faculty and students already in place.
“We are committed to making Abdulkadir Kure University a world-class institution, and this is just the beginning,” Governor Bago said.
AKU’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Muhammad Paiko, lauded the governor’s commitment to education, calling the event a significant milestone for the institution.
He further announced that the National Universities Commission (NUC) would revisit the university in November to verify the establishment of six additional faculties.
Pro-Chancellor Prof. Mohammed Kuta praised Governor Bago’s visionary leadership, describing AKU as a source of pride for Niger State.
He assured that the university’s council is working diligently to ensure that the institution meets global standards.
