The Minister of State for Works, Barrister Bello Muhammad Goronyo, has pledged to intervene in critical infrastructure needs of the Federal University Dutse (FUD), particularly in the areas of roads, water supply and solar energy.
Goronyo made the promise when the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Ahmad Muhammed Gumel, alongside members of his management team, paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.
The minister, while congratulating the Vice-Chancellor on his appointment, described FUD as a relatively new institution that requires the support of key stakeholders to thrive.
He stressed that education remains central to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that “education is the bedrock of societal development.”
Goronyo assured the university management that he would escalate some of their requests to relevant authorities.
“I will present the request of the Vice-Chancellor in the area of roads to the Senior Minister of Works, Engineer David Umahi,” he said.
He added that, as the overseer of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), “I will try my best to assist the young university.”
On water supply, the minister said he would engage the Ministry of Water Resources to support the institution.
“I will also speak to the Minister of Water Resources to help the university with water projects to make things easy for the students,” he stated.
Addressing the issue of power, Goronyo disclosed plans to liaise with the Rural Electrification Agency.
“I will take up the case of the solar energy with the Rural Electrification Agency because the government is already addressing power issues with some pilot projects for tertiary institutions,” he added.
He further encouraged the Vice-Chancellor to explore partnerships with other ministries and agencies to accelerate development in the university.
Earlier, Professor Gumel expressed appreciation to the minister for granting them audience despite the short notice.
He described FUD as a young institution in need of government support, especially in areas of infrastructure such as roads, hostels, water and solar energy.
“FUD is a very young institution that needs the support of the Minister in areas of roads, hostel, water and solar energy,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor also noted that despite its age, the university has distinguished itself.
“Despite the relatively young age of the university, it is the best among the universities founded by President Goodluck Jonathan and even outperforming older universities in certain areas,” Gumel stated.
He commended the minister for his achievements in office and prayed for his continued success.
