Niger State Set to Establish Nigeria's First Sub-National Research Institute at Abdulkadir Kure University

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has announced the state's intention to establish Nigeria's first Sub-National Research Institute at Abdulkadir Kure University (AKU) in Minna. This initiative was shared during the inaugural matriculation ceremony for the 2023/2024 academic session.

Governor Bago indicated that the proposed Research Institute will focus on Agriculture, Science, and Innovation, highlighting the state’s commitment to enhancing educational and research opportunities. He also revealed that the state has secured N15 billion for the construction of essential infrastructure, which will include hostels, an auditorium, and a Senate building.

Furthermore, N500 million has been allocated to support the establishment of six new faculties at the university. To celebrate the inaugural batch of 86 students, the governor announced that each student would receive a scholarship of one million Naira. He emphasized the importance of discipline, stating that 50 scholarships would be awarded to students who demonstrate exemplary character and academic performance, particularly those pursuing Medicine and related fields. Governor Bago expressed his vision for attracting distinguished lecturers and professors to AKU, stating that scholarships and exchange programs would be made available for both lecturers and students.

The Vice Chancellor of AKU Minna, Prof. Mohammed Aliyu Paiko, underscored the significance of this development, commending Governor Bago's commitment to expanding educational opportunities for Nigerlites and Nigerians. He described the governor as a "beacon of hope" for the state and disclosed that the National Universities Commission (NUC) is scheduled to conduct a resource verification for 30 programs across six faculties in November.

The Pro-Chancellor of AKU Minna, Prof. Mohammed Kuta Yahaya, praised Governor Bago's vision for establishing the university, emphasizing that it is a source of pride for the state. He assured that the university's council is diligently working to ensure that AKU achieves world-class standards. This announcement reflects Niger State's commitment to advancing education and research, promising to make a significant impact on the academic landscape of Nigeria.