President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has taken a significant step in bolstering the nation’s educational landscape by appointing the governing council and principal officers for the newly established Federal University of Environment and Technology, situated in Koroma/Saakpenwa, within the Ogoni region of Rivers State. This landmark institution, focused on environmental studies and sustainable technology, is poised to become a center of excellence in addressing critical environmental challenges facing Nigeria and the world. The appointments, meticulously chosen to represent a diverse range of expertise and geographical representation, reflect President Tinubu’s commitment to building a robust and inclusive educational system.
Leading the governing council as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman is Prof. Don Mon Baridam, a distinguished management expert and former lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt. His extensive experience in academic administration and strategic planning will be invaluable in shaping the university’s direction and ensuring its successful takeoff. Joining him as Vice-Chancellor is Prof. Chinedu Mmom, also from the University of Port Harcourt, a renowned professor of geography and a former Rivers State Commissioner for Education. Prof. Mmom’s deep understanding of the region’s specific environmental context and his prior experience in educational leadership make him a fitting choice to guide the university’s academic development. Notably, both Baridam and Mmom hail from the South-South region, reflecting a conscious effort to prioritize local expertise and representation.
The composition of the governing council further emphasizes the principle of national inclusivity. Members include Mr. Emmanuel Onoja from the North Central region, Mr. Hamid Adekunle from the South-West, Prof. Chima Oji from the South-East, and Alhaji Abdullahi Magaji Lamda from the North-West. This diverse representation ensures that the university benefits from a broad spectrum of perspectives and experiences, fostering a truly national institution. The blend of academicians, administrators, and community representatives promises a well-rounded approach to governance, balancing academic rigor with practical considerations.
In addition to the governing council, President Tinubu also appointed the key administrative officers who will play a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of the university. Dr. Mpigi Monday Douglas from the South-South region will serve as the Registrar, responsible for managing student records and academic affairs. Mr. Zoryii Josco Nwaimanie from the North Central region takes on the critical role of Bursar, overseeing the university’s financial management. Dr. Saghanen Ntogo G. B., also from the South-South, has been appointed as the Librarian, tasked with developing and managing the university’s library resources. These appointments, like those of the governing council, reflect a commitment to both regional representation and professional competence.
The establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology and the subsequent appointment of its leadership signify a crucial investment in Nigeria’s future. The university’s specialized focus on environmental studies and technology comes at a time of increasing global concern about climate change, resource depletion, and environmental degradation. It is strategically positioned to contribute significantly to research, innovation, and capacity building in critical areas such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and disaster management. The university’s location in the Ogoni region, an area historically impacted by environmental challenges, adds further significance to its mission. By fostering local expertise and providing opportunities for research and development tailored to the region’s specific needs, the university has the potential to drive positive change and contribute to the sustainable development of the Niger Delta.
With its inaugural student intake planned for September 2025, the Federal University of Environment and Technology is poised to embark on its journey as a beacon of knowledge and innovation. The careful selection of its leadership, representing a diverse range of expertise and geographical representation, sets a strong foundation for its success. As the university develops its academic programs and research initiatives, it is expected to become a leading institution in environmental studies and technology, contributing not only to Nigeria’s development but also to global efforts in addressing critical environmental challenges. The university’s establishment, therefore, represents a significant step towards a more sustainable future, demonstrating President Tinubu’s commitment to investing in education and research to address the pressing needs of the 21st century.
