By Abbas Nazil
The Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, has charged the newly inaugurated Governing Council of the Federal College of Agriculture and Technology, Nabanje, Katsina State, to lead with vision, transparency, and purpose.
She emphasized the importance of their role in driving innovation, food security, and youth empowerment in line with national development priorities.
The call to action came during the official inauguration ceremony held on Tuesday, June 17, at the Federal Ministry of Education, Federal Secretariat in Abuja.
In her address, the Minister highlighted the strategic position of the institution in Nigeria’s broader agenda for food self-sufficiency and youth employment.
She underscored the importance of the Council embracing legacy-driven leadership that prioritizes effective governance, entrepreneurship, and demand-driven agricultural research.
These elements, she said, are crucial to transforming the institution into a catalyst for innovation and sustainable growth.
The College, established as a center for agricultural education and technological advancement, aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to transform the educational sector and empower graduates to become job creators rather than job seekers.
Prof. Ahmad noted that the appointments of Council members were made based on their exemplary records in leadership, public service, and commitment to national development.
She called on the Council to develop a strategic plan that reflects the College’s mission while fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
The Minister further encouraged the body to form meaningful partnerships with local communities, the private sector, and international development agencies.
These collaborations, she said, are key to ensuring the College meets its objectives of youth training, agricultural productivity, and innovation.
While acknowledging that the role comes without significant financial rewards, Prof. Ahmad reminded the Council members of the national importance of their assignment. She urged them to focus on leaving a legacy of service and impact.
“This is a national duty—build a legacy your grandchildren will remember,” she stated, encouraging them to see their roles as a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Also speaking at the event, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Abel O. Enitan, and Director of University Education, Mrs. Rakiya Gambo, both congratulated the newly appointed members. They stressed the importance of integrity, accountability, and collaboration in ensuring that the College delivers on its mandate.
In his response, the newly inaugurated Chairman of the Council, Professor Tai Oluwagbemi, expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu, the Ministry of Education, and the National Assembly for making the College a reality.
He assured the gathering of the Council’s full commitment to building a center of excellence in agricultural education, promising to set new standards of performance and innovation in the region.