Journalists laud Tinubu for approving varsity, FMC in Southern Kaduna

The Southern Kaduna Journalists’ Forum (SKJF) has commended President Bola Tinubu for granting presidential approval for the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences and a Federal Medical Centre in Southern Kaduna.

Mr Ango Bally, Chairman of SKJF, disclosed this in a press statement he issued on Monday in Kaduna.

Bally said the forum has also extolled synergy between the trio of Gov. Uba Sani, the Senator representing Kaduna South Senatorial District, Mr Sunday Katung; and the Member representing Zango Kataf and Jaba Federal Constituency, Hon. Amos Magaji.

He said: “Their historic legislative bills and inclusive support given by the Governor, resulted in the milestone achievements of the two projects.

“We are delighted to note that President Bola Tinubu has consented to the two pivotal bills.

”They are: The Establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia Bill, sponsored by Katung, and that of the Creation of a Federal Medical Centre, initiated by Magaji.

“These landmark developments are poised to transform the socio-economic, educational landscape.

”They will also bolster easy access to quality and affordable healthcare by the people of Southern Kaduna region in particular, the State and Nigeria at large.”

According to Bally, the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia which is also expected to have another campus in Manchok, Kaura LGA.

He stated that it would not only provide access to quality education and technical expertise for the youth but also position the region as a hub for innovation and skills development.

Bally added, “It is worthy of note that the establishment of a federal university in Southern Kaduna goes beyond academics.

”It is no doubt a beacon of hope and a strong statement demonstrating the current government policy of inclusion.

”This is because, for decades, Southern Kaduna region has faced challenges of marginalization and underdevelopment.”

He also said that the university also represented a turning point and a signal that the region was finally being recognised for its human capital potentials and contributions to nation building, which is a clear departure from past administrations.

Bally said, “Likewise, the Federal Medical Centre, if established, will significantly enhance healthcare delivery, ensuring access to critical medical services for communities across the state and neighbouring states as well.

‘The SKJF applauds the exemplary collaboration demonstrated by Sani, Katung, and Magaji in prioritising the collective interests of the people over partisan affiliations,

”Unity of purpose underscores the transformative potential of cooperative governance in addressing the needs of the populace which is the essence of purposeful politics.

“We extend our profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for recognising the strategic importance of these institutions in fostering development and inclusivity in the state, as encapsulated in his Renewed Hope Agenda.”

He, equally, thanked Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima ,who according to him, broke the good news of the presidential assent of the two projects on Dec. 28, 2023.

This was while on a condolence visit to Southern Kaduna over the death of Agwom Akulu of Ikulu Chiefdom and a family member of Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto.

“We note with satisfaction and a sense of inclusion, the pledge by Vice President Shettima that the Federal Government will work with the state government to ensure that development reaches Southern Kaduna, particularly in road infrastructure.

“As custodians of information and public opinions, the SKJF pledges to continue supporting initiatives that prioritise the welfare of our communities.

”We will continue to advocate policies that promote development, peace, and unity in Southern Kaduna, Kaduna State and the country as a whole,” Bally said.