The Southern Kaduna Journalists’ Forum (SKJF) has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the establishment of a federal university and federal medical centre in Southern Kaduna.
This was contained in a statement signed by the forum’s Chairman, Ango Bally and made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Monday.
While the forum thanked Tinubu for granting presidential approval for the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia and a Federal Medical Centre, Kafanchan, it also commended Governor Uba Sani, Senator Sunday Katung and the Rep. Amos Magaji, for their synergy in the actualization of the two institutions.
“We are delighted to note that President Bola Tinubu has consented to the two pivotal bills, the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, sponsored by Senator Katung and the creation of a Federal Medical Centre, initiated by Rep. Magaji, respectively.
“These landmark developments are poised to transform the socio-economic, educational landscape and easy access to quality and affordable healthcare by the people of Southern Kaduna region in particular, the state and Nigeria at large.
Read Also: Youths must exploit enormous potentials of sports, entertainment to be self-reliant – Prince Adebayo
“The Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia which is also expected to have another campus in Manchok, Kaura Local Government Area, will not only provide access to quality education and technical expertise for our youth but also position the region as a hub for innovation and skills development.
“It is worthy of note that the establishment of a federal university in the area goes beyond academics; it is no doubt a beacon of hope and a strong statement demonstrating the current government policy of inclusion because for decades, Southern Kaduna region has faced challenges of marginalization and under-development.
“The university also represents a turning point, signaling that our region is finally being recognized for its human capital potentials and contributions to nation building, which is a clear departure from past administrations.
“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”, it stated.
The forum applauded the exemplary collaboration demonstrated by Gov. Uba Sani, Sen. Katung, and Rep. Magaji in prioritizing the collective interests of the people over partisan affiliations, saying the 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 recognizing the strategic importance of these institutions in fostering development and inclusivity in Kaduna State, as encapsulated in his renewed hope agenda”.
“Also, the SKJF wants to specifically thank the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, who broke the good news of the presidential assent of the two projects on 28th December, 2024, while on condolence visit to Southern Kaduna over the death of Agwom Akulu of Ikulu Chiefdom and brother of Bishop Matthew 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 prioritize the welfare of our communities and to advocate for policies that promote development, peace and unity in Southern Kaduna, Kaduna State and the country as a whole,” it stated.