FG Reaffirms Commitment To Boost Infrastructure In Tertiary Institutions

The Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, has reiterated the federal government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions through strategic collaboration and inter-agency support.

The minister made this known while receiving a delegation from Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State led by its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ahmad Mohammad Gumel, during a courtesy visit to his office in Mabushi, Abuja.

Th Special Adviser on Media to the Minister Abdullahi Mohammed in a statement said the vice-chancellor stated that the visit was aimed at seeking federal intervention in key areas of infrastructure and academic expansion critical to the university’s growth.

Professor Gumel described the minister as a distinguished philanthropist with a proven track record in supporting youth development, particularly in the education sector.

He noted that the institution, established during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, has continued to evolve as a centre of emerging academic excellence despite its relatively young status.

The vice-chancellor highlighted the University’s plan to establish Faculties of Engineering and Environmental Sciences, describing the expansion as essential to bridging gaps in technical education within Jigawa State and the wider region. He, however, stressed that the realisation of this vision requires targeted government support.

He further outlined major infrastructural challenges confronting the institution, including inadequate student accommodation, insufficient power supply, and deficits in internal road and water systems.

According to him, with a student population exceeding 20,000 and fewer than 3,000 available bed spaces, many students are compelled to reside off-campus, raising security and welfare concerns.

Professor Gumel also underscored the need for sustainable energy solutions, advocating for solar-powered electrification to address persistent outages and improve campus safety.

Responding, the minister commended the university’s leadership for its forward-looking approach to development.

Goronyo conveyed the goodwill of the Minister of Works, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, and reaffirmed that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to inclusive infrastructure development as a key driver of national growth.

While noting that the 2026 budget cycle has been concluded, the minister assured that the ministry would explore possible intervention windows, particularly in road infrastructure, to enhance accessibility and support the university’s expansion efforts.

He also advised the university to deepen engagement with relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to leverage existing federal programmes. Specifically, he encouraged collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency for solar energy solutions, noting its track record in delivering off-grid power projects to tertiary institutions nationwide.

In addition, the minister highlighted ongoing federal initiatives such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, designed to expand access to higher education for Nigerian students, regardless of socio-economic background.

Goronyo further expressed personal interest in the academic advancement of the institution, particularly in the establishment of a Faculty of Law, given his background in the legal profession and affiliation with the Body of Benchers.

He also encouraged the University to engage the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation on sustainable water supply solutions, assuring that his office would facilitate necessary linkages where required.

He further urged the university management to strengthen institutional partnerships and adopt a multi-sectoral approach to development in order to accelerate growth and improve service delivery.