Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has confirmed that the recently approved Federal University of Environment and Technology in Ogoniland will commence operations at the Kira Campus of the Rivers State University (RSU). This move is seen as a significant milestone for educational and environmental development in the region, particularly for the Ogoni people.
The announcement came during Governor Fubara's visit to the Kira Campus in Tai Local Government Area on Thursday, where he personally assessed the readiness of the facilities. The governor's tour was conducted alongside key officials, including the Vice Chancellor of RSU, Prof. Okogbule Nlerum, Tai Council Chairman Hon. Matthew Dike, and former Vice Chancellor of RSU, Prof. Barineme Fakae.
Governor Fubara explained that the visit was prompted by a formal request from the Office of the National Security Adviser, seeking the State Government's approval to use the Kira Campus for the take-off of the new Federal University. The governor affirmed that the campus, which was recently renovated by RSU, is well-equipped to accommodate the university’s initial operations.
“This is one of the campuses of Rivers State University, and we received a request from the National Security Adviser, asking the State Government to release this facility for the Federal University of Environment and Technology," Governor Fubara stated. "It is strategically located in Kira, Ogoniland, and will serve the Ogoni people in particular, and Rivers State at large.”
Following the request, the State Government formally reached out to the RSU management for updates on the condition of the campus facilities. Governor Fubara, after conducting an on-site assessment, expressed satisfaction with the state of the campus. "From what we have seen, it is a well-planned space, and I strongly believe it is suitable for the take-off of this university," he added.
The governor also clarified that the Kira Campus is a property of the Rivers State University, owned by the State Government, and that the decision to release it for the Federal University lies solely with RSU. He assured that the State Government would facilitate the transition and officially hand over the campus to the Federal Government.
“We will officially transmit a letter of release to the Federal Government for the take-off of the university,” Governor Fubara said. He also praised President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to the project, stating that the President’s approval of the Federal University demonstrates goodwill toward the people of Rivers State, especially the Ogoni community.
Governor Fubara acknowledged the collaborative efforts of those who initiated the process, particularly the RSU management, for maintaining the campus in good condition. He noted that although RSU had plans to maximize the use of the Kira Campus, the urgent need for the Federal University to commence operations made the decision to release the facility both timely and necessary.
He further highlighted the broader implications of the new university for the region. "This university is going to bring about three major benefits: First, it will spur development in the region. Second, it will raise the educational profile of the Ogoni people, especially in environmental studies. Lastly, it will address key environmental challenges that have plagued this part of the country,” the governor stated.
Environmental issues have long been a critical concern in Ogoniland, particularly with the devastating effects of oil pollution. The establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology is expected to serve as a center of research and learning to tackle these problems head-on, with a focus on sustainable solutions.
“This institution will not only provide educational opportunities but also offer practical solutions to the environmental impact of industrial activities in this area,” Governor Fubara emphasized. He described the initiative as a historic achievement for his administration, underscoring its potential to transform the socio-economic and environmental landscape of the region.
