Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago awarded N1 million in scholarships to each of the 86 matriculating students at Abdulkadir Kure University (AKUM), Minna, to support their pursuit of a first degree.

During the institution’s maiden matriculation ceremony, the governor also announced a N500 million grant to enhance facilities and promote the institution’s transformation from the former College of Education, Minna, into a fully-fledged university.

Governor Bago outlined plans for AKUM to host a variety of specialized colleges, including Agriculture, Medicine, and Aeronautics, as well as a research institute dedicated to agriculture and innovation. He emphasized that 1% of Niger State’s total revenue will fund this research, and shared details of collaborations with Kent State University and Ostens University for student and faculty exchange programs. Additionally, Bago revealed a secured N15 billion investment for hostel construction and a Senate building for the university.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Mohammed Paiko and Pro-Chancellor Prof. Kuta Yahaya praised the governor’s vision for higher education in Niger State, noting that AKUM will play a pivotal role in fostering sustainable development and producing job creators. As Nigeria’s first “Green University,” the institution aims to pioneer an environmentally conscious curriculum, with the governor’s support seen as a driving force for educational reform in the state.