From Seyi Tayese, Yenagoa
A group under the auspices of Federal University of Agriculture Support Group (FSG) has raised a total of N232.562 million for the eventual take-off of the newly established university in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
While delivering a keynote address at the fundraising ceremony in Yenagoa, the Coordinator of the Support group, Dr. Ala-Peters David, noted that the group decided to organize the fundraising in compliance with the presidential directive that all newly established universities kickoff by September 2025.
He stressed that Bayelsans would be the direct beneficiaries of the institutions despite the fact that it is a Federal University of Agriculture, Bassambiri, as education is the bedrock of every society.
He further reiterated that this is the first higher institution in Bassambiri, Opu-Nembe which prompted members of the fundraising committe to organize the event to leverage on the granting of the institution by the Federal Government, appealing to well-meaning Bayelsans in particular and Nigerians as a whole to support the growth and development of the school.
In the same vein, the state governor, Senator Douye Diri, who was represented at the occasion by the Commissioner of Education, Gentle Emelah noted that the state government had done a critical assessment and appraisal of the Federal University of Agriculture, Bassambirii with a commitment to assist in the construction of basic facilities for a conducive academic environment for the students and staff of the institution.
He also noted that right from the inception of the present administration, the state government has always prioritize educational policy in the state.
He was however silent on the donation to the take-off but pledged the adequate logistical support to kick-start the University.
While speaking with newsmen at the event, one of the dignitaries, Bob Manuel who is the Chief Executive Officer of BOBTRACK TRACTOR LTD donated an #1m, saying the time has come to diversify from oil and gas to agriculture as it is capable of being the mainstay of the nation’s economy.
He equally opined that agriculture alone is capable of mopping up the teeming unemployed youths across the Niger Delta, calling on all stakeholders in the educational policy in the South/South region of the country to rally round the new university for the overall benefits of the people.
