By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasized the crucial role of demand-driven research in driving industrial growth and development in Nigeria. Represented by Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Tanko-Sununu, at the Federal University Birnin Kebbi’s (FUBK) maiden convocation ceremony on Saturday, the President stressed education’s significance in every individual’s life.
“Recognizing this, the federal government is working tirelessly to ensure education is accessible to many Nigerians under favorable policies,” President Tinubu stated. He acknowledged infrastructural deficits in the education sector and assured that deliberate efforts are being made to address these challenges.
FUBK Vice Chancellor, Professor Muhammad Zaiyan -Umar, welcomed the President and highlighted the university’s growth since its establishment in 2013. The university now boasts five faculties and a College of Health Sciences, with plans to commence programs in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Law.
The convocation ceremony covered five academic sessions (2017/2018 to 2022/2023), honoring 3,373 graduands. The Vice Chancellor expressed gratitude to the State Minister For Education Dr. Tanko-Sununu, Kebbi State Government, and the Executive Governors of Sokoto and Zamfara States for their support.
“The University honored four distinguished Nigerians with Honorary Doctorate degrees.” Includes:
– Alhaji Saidu Usman Dakingari, former Kebbi State Governor.
– Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, Founder/Chairman, Oriental Energy Resources Limited.
– Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh, Chairman, Zinox Group and Ambassador Alhaji Abubakar Sani (Makaman Sokoto).
Experts agree that industrial development in Nigeria requires universities to drive growth through research and innovation. By prioritizing demand-driven research, Nigerian universities can contribute significantly to the country’s economic progress.
