President Bola Tinubu has said that no nation could thrive without deliberate investment in its youths.
According to the president, Nigerians should not be denied quality education due to financial constraints.
Mr Tinubu disclosed this at the 34th convocation ceremony and 43rd Founders Day of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, on Sunday.
The president noted that over the past 43 years, the university had distinguished itself as a centre of excellence in science, engineering innovation and applied research.
He said that the administration has expanded access to education through targeted infrastructure investments and the implementation of the student loan scheme.
Farouk Kuta, the university’s vice-chancellor, said the ceremony stands as a powerful affirmation of the university community.
He said the community was defined by resilience, creativity, and unwavering dedication to advancing knowledge and serving humanity.
Mr Kuta said that the past year recorded exceptional progress, as the university ranked seventh in Nigeria and emerged as the highest-ranked specialised university.
He said that the university ranked among the top 10 best in Nigeria and 68th in Africa.
He noted that the institution’s strategic expansion was a decisive step toward fulfilling its mandate as a technology-driven university committed to solving societal challenges.
This, he added, was particularly evident in the training of healthcare professionals and medical technologists in the country.
He stated that the institution remained committed to the merit and welfare of both academic and non-academic staff.
“Over 146 senior non-teaching staff and 110 junior staff were promoted, while the appointments of 22 staff were confirmed. Also, in creating an enabling environment, the school clinic and sports complex were renovated,” he added.
The V-C urged the graduates to mark their transition from learners to alumni and solution providers.
The institution’s pro-chancellor and chairman of the governing council, Mohammed Santuraki, commended the president for his reforms, which have enabled steady progress.
He said he aligns with the Tinubu administration in ensuring national growth.
Mr Santuraki also thanked Governor Umar Bago for donating N100 million towards the construction of a female hostel for medical students.
(NAN)