The National Assembly has passed a landmark Bill to establish the Federal University of Mining and Geoscience in Jos, Plateau State, a major legislative win for Senator Diket Plang.
Representing Plateau Central Senatorial District, Senator Plang has been the driving force behind the Bill, which has now sailed through both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The Bill was unanimously approved during its third reading in the House, completing the concurrence process required between both chambers of the National Assembly.
It now awaits presidential assent before implementation begins.
The university is designed as a specialised institution focusing on mining, geoscience, and sustainable resource management, which are vital to Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts.
Senator Plang described the passage as “a defining moment for Plateau State and a strategic move for Nigeria’s economic future.”
According to him, the university will build local expertise in solid minerals, enabling Nigeria to tap more effectively into its vast natural resources.
“Plateau State, with its mining heritage, is the most suitable location for this transformational institution,” he said.
The Federal University of Mining and Geoscience, Jos, will offer advanced academic and research programmes in geology, mineral processing, environmental science, and mining engineering.
Industry experts have praised the move, saying it will boost local content, create jobs, and foster innovation across the mineral value chain.
The passage of the Bill has sparked celebrations across Plateau, with youth groups, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders lauding Senator Plang for fulfilling his campaign promise.
“This is not just a university — it’s a legacy,” one community leader remarked.
Once the Bill is signed into law, the Federal Ministry of Education will begin planning, including infrastructure development and curriculum design.
The university is expected to feature state-of-the-art facilities and a globally competitive faculty, aiming to become a leading institution in Africa’s mining and geoscience landscape.
Observers say the initiative represents a bold step in reducing Nigeria’s dependence on oil and refocusing national growth on solid minerals.
