The Senate of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, is reaffirming its support for the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Faruk Kuta, while firmly rejecting claims by the Niger State Government over the ownership of the Bosso Campus.
This development follows growing tensions between the university authorities and the state government, alongside protests by a civil group raising concerns over the management of the institution and the ongoing dispute.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the University Senate reaches this decision during its 518th statutory meeting, where members extensively deliberate on the protracted disagreement surrounding the Bosso Campus.
Members commend the Vice-Chancellor for what they describe as mature leadership, strategic handling of the crisis, and commitment to protecting the institution’s integrity amid external pressures.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the lawmakers within the university express dissatisfaction with the role of the Pro-Chancellor, citing concerns over his handling of the situation and perceived failure to defend the university’s interests.
The Senate resolves that the Bosso Campus remains the exclusive property of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, rejecting any proposal for ceding or sharing the facility with external institutions.
The Senate also opposes suggestions that the campus be shared with the College of Medical Sciences of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, insisting that such an arrangement is not in the best interest of FUT Minna.
Meanwhile, the Concern Nigerlites Forum stages a peaceful protest, calling on the Federal Government to suspend the Vice-Chancellor over allegations of undermining the Niger State Government.
Its convener accuses the Vice-Chancellor of influencing key stakeholders, including academic unions and alumni groups, in a manner that could heighten tensions within the university and the wider community.
They call for possible temporary closure of the institution if tensions worsen, adherence to directives from the Federal Ministry of Education, and increased dialogue between all parties involved.
The group advocates allowing medical students from Ibrahim Badamasi Babangasi University, Lapai, to utilize parts of the Bosso Campus facilities to support their academic programmes.
According to the protesters, the objective is to ensure that students are not academically disadvantaged due to the ongoing institutional conflict.
The forum warns that the dispute, if not properly managed, could escalate into broader security challenges within the state and the university environment.
The group calls for the governing council to fully exercise its mandate and engage all stakeholders, including the Niger State Government, toward a peaceful and lasting resolution.
However, the University Senate maintains its stance.
It reiterates its earlier resolutions, emphasizing that the Bosso Campus must remain under the full control and ownership of FUT Minna.
University authorities stress the importance of preserving institutional independence, academic stability, and administrative integrity in the face of external demands.
An official statement signed by the Registrar and Secretary to the Senate outlines the decisions taken, reinforcing the university’s position on the matter.
Observers note that the dispute highlights recurring tensions between federal institutions and state governments over control, infrastructure, and resource allocation.
Education experts emphasize the need for constructive engagement to prevent disruptions to academic activities and safeguard the interests of students.
As both sides maintain firm positions, attention remains on how the Federal Government and relevant authorities will navigate the crisis to ensure stability within the institution.
It insists that its decisions are guided by law, institutional policy, and the long-term interest of the university community.
But the university signals readiness to defend its position while encouraging lawful and peaceful engagement among all stakeholders.
