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Prof. Gajam Ardo, the Special Adviser to the Sokoto State Governor on Higher Education, said on Thursday that the government has spent over N8.6 billion on the state university's first phase project.
Ardo said this in Sokoto on Thursday at a ceremony to receive the institution's pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nuhu Yakub, a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja.
Ardo said the figure excluded the cost of the execution of additional projects under the phase.
This, he explained, included the construction of the perimeter fencing, conversion of the road from the main gate to the Senate building to two lanes as well as the conversion of the senate building from a two-storey building to three.
Ardo said that Gov. Aliyu Wamakko has approved the construction of 70 houses for both the academic and non-academic staff of the university.
The special adviser said that Wamakko, the visitor to the institution, wanted the institution to be a world class university.
Ardo expressed the confidence in the ability of the pioneer vice-chancellor to fulfil the founders' vision and mission .
He pledged the sustained support and cooperation of the Department toward ensuring the success of the university.
``We are also happy that Alhaji Nuhu Muhammad Sanusi, the Emir of Dutse in Jigawa and the former NSO Boss , Alhaji Umaru Shinkafi, had been appointed as the Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor of the university respectively .
``Similarly, the appointment of Dr Myra Gordon of the Kansas State University, USA, is capable of making it truly international.''
Also speaking, Prof. Nuhu Yakub commended Wamakko for appointing him as the first Vice-Chancellor of the institution.
''I will not fail him and the people of the state, in sha Allahu .
``The challenges now are to get the required qualified staff and standard facilities as these will determine the excellence in running the university.
''I am coming home to Sokoto with experience and the zeal to run the university transparently and honestly.’’ (NAN)
