DAURA, Katsina State — The Federal University of Transportation, Daura (FUTD), has pledged to honour the memory of the late President Muhammadu Buhari in ways that will surpass his own expectations, turning the institution into a beacon of academic excellence and international pride.
This commitment was made by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of FUTD, Mr. Wahab Owokoniran, in a heartfelt tribute delivered yesterday in Lagos.
Owokoniran, a seasoned political figure and former Chairman of Ikeja Local Government Area in Lagos State, described the passing of President Buhari as a profound loss not only to his hometown of Daura but to the entire nation. He emphasized that the university—established in Buhari’s native town as a symbol of his passion for education and infrastructural development—will serve as a living monument to his enduring legacy.
“The challenge is particularly to surpass Buhari’s expectations and make the institution an international pride as a mark of immortalising the heroic contributions of the late President to education and progressive leadership,” Owokoniran said.
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, Owokoniran stressed the Council’s unwavering resolve to uphold the founding vision of FUTD.
“As Chairman of the Governing Council of the university, all best efforts possible shall be deployed into the institution to attain the standard and productivity as envisaged by its establishment.”
He noted that Buhari’s passing had deeply shaken the university community, including the staff, students, and residents of Daura, who had embraced the university with pride and gratitude. According to him, FUTD stands as one of the most significant specialised universities in the country—dedicated to transforming Nigeria’s transportation sector through research, innovation, and capacity building.
“The immense contributions of the late President—from his days as a military officer and Head of State to his tenure as a democratically elected leader—cannot be quantified. He stood out as a symbol of selfless leadership and, no doubt, had passed on as a great hero of positive leadership,” Owokoniran added.
He reaffirmed that the goodwill President Buhari had earned throughout his life continues to reflect in the warm acceptance of the university by the Daura community.
As plans are underway to roll out programmes and infrastructure that reflect the university’s specialised mission, the Governing Council has assured Nigerians that FUTD will be a true testament to the life, ideals, and vision of one of the country’s most influential leaders.