The Honourable Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, has urged the newly inaugurated Governing Council of the Federal College of Agriculture and Technology, Nabanje, to embrace strategic, legacy-driven leadership in steering the institution to boost innovation, food security, and youth empowerment.
She also tasked the Council to prioritize transparency, effective governance, entrepreneurship, and demand-driven research while developing their strategic plan and promoting peaceful collaboration.
According to her, “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.”
This was made known during the inauguration ceremony, which took place on Tuesday, 17th June, at the Federal Ministry of Education, Federal Secretariat.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Minister said the College was created to promote agricultural education, innovation, and national development. She stated that the establishment of the College aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at transforming graduates into job creators and achieving national food security.
Ahmad said the appointment of the Council members was based on their proven track record in leadership, national service, and commitment to development. She described the appointments as a national call to service, urging the appointees to demonstrate dedication, responsibility, and commitment in carrying out their roles.
She emphasized the need for partnerships with local communities, private sector stakeholders, and international partners to achieve the College’s objectives. She encouraged the Council to collaborate with sister institutions and maintain synergy with the College’s management to fully realize the institution’s mandate of youth empowerment and food production.
While noting that the role does not come with substantial financial incentives, she reminded members of the national importance of their service. “Your job is a national duty—build a legacy your grandchildren will remember,” she added.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Abel O. Enitan, and the Director of University Education, Mrs. Rakiya Gambo, congratulated the appointees and urged them to uphold transparency and accountability in their stewardship.
Responding 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 establishment of the College. “We want to build a centre of excellence that will be second to none in the region,” he said, pledging the Council’s unwavering commitment to excellence and agricultural innovation.
Members of the Governing Council include:
Professor Tai Oluwagbemi – Chairman, Governing Council
Dr. Mukhtar Habib – Provost
Other members are: Labiru Musa Kafur, Yusuf Hassan, Professor Abdulsamad Umar Jibia, and Professor Inuwa Shehu Usman – Members.
Also at the event was Alhaji Ibrahim Masari, Special Assistant to the President on Political Affairs.
Signed
Boriowo Folasade
Director Press and Public Relations
