President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed into law a bill establishing the Federal University of Environmental Technology in Ogoni, Rivers State, marking a significant step towards environmental justice, education, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.
The signing ceremony took place at the State House in Abuja, attended by key figures including Senator Mpigi Barinada, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and the Minister of Education. President Tinubu emphasized the importance of this new institution in addressing the long-standing environmental challenges faced by the Ogoni people due to decades of oil exploration activities.
“I have signed into law the bill establishing the Federal University of Environmental Technology. Ogoni has been at the forefront of our development and agitation, and has suffered environmental degradation,” President Tinubu stated. He added that the university is not just about education but symbolizes a commitment to rectifying historical injustices and fostering sustainable development for the Ogoni people and the broader Niger Delta region.
The university aims to be a center of excellence, focusing on environmental studies, technology, and sustainable solutions. It will offer courses and research opportunities in environmental sciences, renewable energy, and related technological fields, hoping to equip young Nigerians with the necessary skills to tackle pressing ecological challenges and contribute to national sustainable economic development.
The initiative has been celebrated across various platforms, with posts on X (formerly Twitter) highlighting the establishment of the university as a move towards restoring hope, employment, and educational opportunities in Ogoni land. There’s a sentiment that this could potentially be named “Ken Saro Wiwa University,” in honor of the late environmental activist who championed the cause of the Ogoni people.
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Environmental activists and local leaders have expressed cautious optimism, urging the government to ensure that the university’s implementation is transparent and effective. “This is a commendable move, but we must ensure that the university does not become another white elephant project. The people of Ogoni deserve tangible results,” remarked a spokesperson from a local environmental group.
The bill’s approval follows President Tinubu’s recent meeting with Ogoni leaders, where he pledged his administration’s dedication to peace, justice, and sustainable development in the region. This legislative action is seen as part of a broader strategy to implement the recommendations from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report on Ogoniland, focusing on environmental restoration and capacity building.
As the Federal University of Environmental Technology, Ogoni, gears up to commence its academic activities by the 2025/2026 session, the federal government has committed to providing adequate funding and support. This move is seen as a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s quest for environmental sustainability and regional development, potentially setting a precedent for similar initiatives across other environmentally impacted areas in the country.
