President Bola Tinubu has officially signed into law a bill establishing the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) in Ogoni, Rivers State. The signing ceremony, which took place on Monday at the State House in Abuja, marks a major step toward environmental justice, education, and sustainable development in the region.
According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the new university will be located in the Ogoni town of Tai. During the ceremony, President Tinubu emphasized that FUET will provide empowerment and development opportunities for the Ogoni people, who have long suffered environmental degradation.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our national journey towards environmental justice, education, and sustainable development,” Tinubu said. “The Ogoni people have been at the forefront of the fight for environmental restoration, shaping national and global conversations on these critical issues. By signing this bill into law, we are taking a decisive step to address historical grievances and create new opportunities for learning, growth, and prosperity.”
The President further noted that FUET will serve as a center of excellence, equipping young Nigerians with the knowledge and skills to tackle pressing environmental challenges, promote clean energy solutions, and contribute to the nation’s sustainable economic development.
He also expressed gratitude to the National Assembly for passing the bill and commended the Ogoni delegation for their steadfast advocacy. “Your dedication to justice is inspiring, and I assure you it will be rewarded,” Tinubu stated. He urged all stakeholders—including traditional institutions, the academic community, and private sector partners—to support the university as a beacon of knowledge, unity, and progress.
Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa highlighted that FUET will prioritize interdisciplinary programs in environmental science, clean energy, and sustainable technology. These programs will equip students with the expertise needed to tackle regional and national ecological challenges.
National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu also underscored the university’s role in addressing long-standing concerns about environmental restoration in Ogoniland, emphasizing the need for inclusive development and sustainability efforts in the region.
Senator Mpigi Barinada, leader of the Ogoni delegation, expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for signing the bill into law. He also acknowledged the efforts of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and NSA Ribadu in facilitating the bill’s passage.
According to Barinada, the establishment of FUET represents a beacon of hope for the Ogoni community and a call to embrace peace and development. “This university will encourage the people to lay down their grievances and work towards a future of growth and progress,” he stated.
With FUET now officially established, Ogoniland is poised to become a hub for environmental research and innovation, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s broader efforts toward ecological restoration and sustainable development.
