President Tinubu Appoints Bishop Kukah and Key Officers for Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia
President Bola Tinubu has taken decisive steps to establish and strengthen the newly formed Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State. Formerly known as Nok University, this institution was recently federalized by presidential directive, signaling a commitment to expanding access to higher education and fostering specialized skills development. A key element of this transition has been the strategic appointment of leadership, including Bishop Matthew Kukah as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council. This appointment underscores the administration’s focus on leveraging diverse expertise and experience in shaping the future of this nascent university. Bishop Kukah, renowned for his outspoken advocacy and social commentary, brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong reputation for principled leadership to this crucial role.
The appointment of Bishop Kukah, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s religious and intellectual landscape, signals the importance placed on inclusive governance and the engagement of diverse perspectives in the educational sector. His selection is also indicative of the president’s recognition of the role of education in national development and the need for strong leadership to guide this new institution. With the university poised to welcome its first cohort of students in September 2025, the selection of a seasoned leader like Bishop Kukah as Pro-Chancellor is a strategic move aimed at ensuring a smooth transition and setting a high standard for governance from the outset.
Alongside Bishop Kukah, President Tinubu has appointed a team of experienced academics and administrators to key leadership positions within the university. Professor Qurix Barnabas will serve as the institution’s Vice Chancellor, bringing a wealth of academic experience to lead the academic direction of the university. Mr. Sanusi Adamu has been appointed as Registrar, responsible for managing the university’s administrative functions and student records. Mr. Ibrahim Dalhat will take on the role of Bursar, overseeing the financial affairs of the institution, while Professor Daniel Abubakar has been named University Librarian, responsible for curating and managing the university’s library resources. These appointments represent a carefully considered blend of expertise across various aspects of university administration, ensuring a well-rounded and capable leadership team.
Further strengthening the governance structure, President Tinubu has also appointed members to the university’s Governing Council, representing different regions of the country. Mr. Thomas Etuh will represent the North Central region, Chief Fabian Nwaora the South-East, Professor Femi Taiwo the South-West, and Zarah Bukar the North-East. This diverse representation ensures that the Governing Council reflects the national character of the institution and incorporates perspectives from across the country. This regional representation is crucial for ensuring that the university caters to the needs of students from various backgrounds and contributes to balanced national development.
The Presidency has emphasized that the selection of these appointees was based on their distinguished careers, proven leadership experience, and demonstrated dedication to advancing education in Nigeria. The rigorous selection process underscores the importance placed on selecting individuals with the necessary qualifications and commitment to ensure the success of the new university. This focus on meritocracy aims to establish a strong foundation for the institution and instill confidence in its ability to deliver high-quality education.
President Tinubu has charged the newly appointed leadership with the responsibility of transforming the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, into a hub of academic excellence and research. He has urged them to embrace his "Renewed Hope Agenda" and provide visionary leadership that will lay a solid foundation for the university’s future growth. This mandate underscores the president’s vision for the university as a catalyst for innovation and development, contributing meaningfully to the nation’s progress. The emphasis on research further highlights the university’s intended role in generating knowledge and addressing critical societal challenges. As the university prepares to open its doors to its first students, these appointments mark a significant step towards realizing the vision of a vibrant and impactful institution of higher learning.
