The Federal Government has officially inaugurated the Governing Council of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES) in Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State, setting the stage for the institution’s full operational commencement in September 2025.
The inauguration, which took place on Tuesday in Abuja, was led by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, who was joined by key figures, including Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad; Pro-Chancellor and Chairperson of the University Governing Council, Senator Binta Garba; and the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Olugbenga Aribisala.
Also present was the Chief Executive Officer of Premium Trust Bank, Mr. Emmanuel Emefienim, among other dignitaries.
During the event, Dr. Alausa highlighted the importance of FUTES in addressing Nigeria’s growing human capital deficit, particularly in high-demand sectors like Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
He explained that the university was established to equip Nigerian youth with the skills necessary for the country’s digital economy, citing critical fields such as software engineering, AI, cybersecurity, and quantum computing.
“We are looking to fill a gap in the global manpower market,” Alausa said.
“Countries in Europe and North America are facing an ageing population and a shortage of skilled workers. Nigeria has an opportunity to step in and provide the workforce needed for the future. This is part of President Tinubu’s broader strategy to invest in education and develop high-income skills that are globally in demand.”
In a bid to support the university’s quick launch, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Leader of the Senate, donated several vehicles, including two Toyota Coaster buses, a Toyota Hilux utility vehicle, a Toyota Hiace ambulance, and two motorcycles.
These donations are aimed at facilitating the university’s operations ahead of its official takeoff.
Bamidele also commended the efforts of the host community in Iyin Ekiti, who established a takeoff committee and secured a location for the new institution before the final approval of the project.
He acknowledged the contributions of local figures, including the late Prof. Ekundayo Adeyinka Adeyemi, a retired professor of architecture, who played a key role in shaping the vision of the university. A one-minute silence was observed in his honour during the inauguration.
Prof. Aribisala, the Vice Chancellor, emphasized that FUTES would offer specialized programs that distinguish it from other Nigerian universities.
These include Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Industrial Design, and Data Science, among others. He stressed the university’s commitment to becoming a world-class institution that is both ICT-driven and residential for staff and students.
FUTES’ establishment is seen as a significant step towards addressing the country’s pressing need for advanced technical education and training, setting the stage for a new generation of professionals ready to drive Nigeria’s future development in key technological fields.
