By Abdulkareem Haruna


MAIDUGURI, Borno State — Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan (Borno Central) is celebrating a significant legislative victory for his constituents and the wider Lake Chad region, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s assent to the bill establishing the Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship (FUAE) in Bama.

The Senator, who championed the bill, believes the specialized institution will be pivotal in combating unemployment and fostering vital skills across Nigeria and its neighbors.


Speaking to reporters after the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the presidential approval on Wednesday, Senator Lawan emphasized the university’s groundbreaking nature.

“This University is first of its kind in the history of Nigeria, as it would provide the needed agricultural and entrepreneurial skills not only to Borno and Nigerian students, but to other neighbouring Republic of Cameroon, Niger and Chad,” Lawan stated.

He underscored its potential to steer young people away from an over-reliance on traditional white-collar jobs and toward self-sufficiency.


Senator Lawan expressed profound gratitude to Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas for their “unflinching support” in seeing the bill through. He also offered special commendation to Borno State Governor Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, acknowledging his “pivotal role” in the process that culminated in the university’s establishment.


Beyond the legislative triumph, Senator Lawan took the opportunity to praise Governor Zulum’s recent leadership in the face of renewed security challenges. He specifically highlighted the governor’s “doggedness and support towards ending the renewed Boko Haram attacks,” pointing to Governor Zulum’s decision to spend nearly a week on the frontline to reclaim Marte local government area and other communities.


“This attendant risk taken by Governor Zulum is a testament of true and selfless leadership,” Lawan affirmed, noting the governor’s demonstration of “a high sense of responsibility” as the state’s Chief Security Officer. He also commended Governor Zulum’s timely visit to President Tinubu to address the security situation, expressing confidence it would “definitely yield the desired result.”


Senator Lawan extended his appreciation to his colleagues in the National Assembly, whose “overwhelming support” during the legislative process was crucial. “As a specialized tertiary institution, I have no doubt in my mind that the university will be a game changer in the country,” he declared, envisioning a future where the FUAE Bama significantly contributes to national development.


Reiterating his loyalty to the APC-led Federal Government and the people of Borno State, particularly his constituents in Borno Central Senatorial District, Senator Lawan pledged to continue working to “complement the good works of His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum by bringing more federal government projects to the state.”