(Nairametric) – President Bola Tinubu has appointed Senator Binta Masi Garba as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairperson of the Governing Council for the newly established Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES), Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State.
The announcement was made in a statement signed by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, on March 25, 2025. The university is expected to admit its first set of students in September 2025.
Governing Council Members
The appointed Governing Council members include:
Prof. Joseph Olurotimi Sanya
Mr. Efe Emefienin Emmanuel
Dr. Joyce Ogunyemi
Alhaji Dahiru Abdullahi Ruma
Principal Officers
The university’s key Principal Officers are:
Vice-Chancellor: Prof. James Olugbenga Aribisala
Registrar: Mr. Oluwole Olalere Dada
Bursar: Mrs. Adeniyi Rachael Ajayi
Librarian: Prof. Isaac Oluwadare Busayo
Senator Binta Garba’s Profile
Senator Binta Garba is a seasoned politician, businesswoman, and administrator with extensive legislative experience.
- She represented Adamawa North Senatorial District in the Senate (2015–2019).
- Served three consecutive terms in the House of Representatives (1999–2011).
- Contributed to key legislative policies and national development.
Tinubu’s Vision for the University
President Tinubu credited Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, for advocating the establishment of FUTES. He urged the university leaders to prioritize academic excellence, research innovation, and institutional growth.
FUTES was approved on February 20, 2025, as part of efforts to enhance education, technology, and environmental sciences in Nigeria. The university will focus on:
Technology-driven education
Engineering, digital innovation, and applied sciences
Research in environmental sustainability
New Appointment at Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo
In a related development, President Tinubu has appointed Prof. Muhammed Salihu Audu as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, Benue State.
- He succeeds Engr. Ohieku Muhammed Salami.
- Prof. Audu is a renowned mathematician and former Vice-Chancellor of FUT Minna.
Conclusion
The appointments reflect President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening higher education and research institutions in Nigeria. FUTES and other specialized universities are expected to play a key role in training professionals and driving economic growth.