A total of 529 students have been officially matriculated into the Federal University of Transportation, Daura, as the Federal Government reiterated its commitment to producing globally competitive graduates, particularly in the transportation sector.
Speaking at the University’s 2nd matriculation ceremony held on Saturday in Daura, Katsina State, the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, emphasized the current administration’s dedication to academic excellence and sector-specific education. He noted that the Federal Government is determined to produce highly skilled graduates who can stand shoulder to shoulder with their counterparts across the globe.
“It is our hope and aspiration to produce graduates of the highest quality who can compete favorably with others worldwide. We are committed to fulfilling our mandate by providing specialized knowledge across all modes of transportation, preparing Nigerian experts who will shape the transport industry through policy, law, and professional practice,” the Minister stated.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Minister expressed appreciation to the University’s Governing Council, Senate, staff, and students, and conveyed the President’s congratulations. He lauded the institution’s progress and described it as a pioneering specialized university in Nigeria and Africa. He urged the newly admitted students to seize the rare opportunity and strive to become distinguished ambassadors of the University and the nation.
In his address, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Umar Adam Katsayal, provided insights into the vision behind establishing the University. He explained that the institution was created to safeguard and sustain the massive investments by both Federal and State Governments in the transportation sector, while bridging the human capacity gap, especially within Nigeria’s expanding railway system.
Professor Katsayal noted that the University’s infrastructure development has been supported by CCECC Nigeria Limited, which committed resources as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). This includes the construction of classrooms, laboratories, workshops, and dormitories, funded through profits from the Lagos–Kano Railway Modernisation Project.
Looking ahead, the Vice Chancellor outlined ambitious plans for the University, including:
- Expansion of campus infrastructure such as lecture halls, labs, workshops, and accommodation, in line with its academic brief and master plan
- Integration of smart technology in education through smart classrooms and virtual learning platforms
- Introduction of sustainability projects, such as solar-powered facilities and a green campus initiative
- Launch of new academic programmes in transportation security, aviation technology, smart transport systems, and sustainable urban mobility
- Development of executive and short courses to serve working professionals
- Intensification of research in autonomous vehicles, green logistics, and industry collaboration
He concluded by emphasizing that the University’s growth is anchored on strong support from regulatory agencies, the availability of research-driven funding opportunities, and access to relevant industries and startups for post-graduation employment.
