The Federal Government has called on the newly inaugurated Governing Council of the Federal College of Agriculture and Technology, Nbanaje, Katsina State, to prioritize innovation, food security, and youth empowerment in line with national development goals.
The Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’idu Ahmad, made this charge during the inauguration ceremony held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at the Federal Ministry of Education headquarters in Abuja.
Professor Ahmad urged the Council to embrace strategic and transparent leadership, placing emphasis on entrepreneurship, effective governance, and demand-driven research. She noted, “This institution is strategically positioned to contribute to Nigeria’s drive for food security, youth employment, and sustainable economic growth. Your appointment is not just an honour, but a call to serve our country through transformational leadership in Education and Agriculture.”
She also reminded the appointees that their roles carry a national responsibility. “Your job is a national duty—build a legacy your grandchildren will remember,” she said, stressing that the positions come with little financial incentive but immense patriotic importance.
According to the Minister, the establishment of the college aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to transform graduates into job creators and secure national food sufficiency. She highlighted that the college was created to advance agricultural education and foster innovation for national development.
She praised the selection of Council members, citing their track records in leadership and national service. Professor Ahmad urged the new council to collaborate with local communities, private sector stakeholders, and international partners. She emphasized the importance of working closely with sister institutions and maintaining synergy with the College’s management to deliver on its mandate.
At the event, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Abel O. Enitan, and the Director of University Education, Mrs. Rakiya Gambo, both congratulated the appointees and urged them to uphold transparency and accountability.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, the newly inaugurated Chairman, Professor Tai Oluwagbemi, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, the Ministry of Education, and the National Assembly for facilitating the college’s establishment. “We want to build a centre of excellence that will be second to none in the region,” he said, pledging the Council’s commitment to agricultural innovation and academic excellence.
Members of the Governing Council include Professor Tai Oluwagbemi as Chairman, Dr. Mukhtar Habib as Provost, and members Labiru Musa Kafur, Yusuf Hassan, Professor Abdulsamad Umar Jibia, and Professor Inuwa Shehu Usman. Also present at the inauguration was Alhaji Ibrahim Masari, Special Assistant to the President on Political Affairs.
The press release was signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education.
