Handing-Over Ceremony Of Federal University Of Transportation, Nigeria (Phase 1): Alkali Commends CCECC

The Honourable Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Ahmed Alkali, hosted the handing-over ceremony of Phase 1 of the Federal University of Transportation in Daura, Nigeria, built by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and donated to Nigeria. The event took place on 17 May 2024, at Transcorp Hotel, Abuja.

The university, valued at $50 million, is a testament to CCECC’s corporate social responsibility, aiming to boost economic growth and societal development. During his speech, Minister Alkali highlighted CCECC’s contributions, including the Kajola Rail Wagon Assembly Plant in Oyo State and support for Nigerian students and healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alkali praised CCECC for their support in educational development and commended the efforts of the pioneer Vice Chancellor, Prof. Umar Adam Katsayal, in bringing the project to fruition. The university, which meets the National University Commission’s standards, has commenced academic activities for the 2023/2024 session with essential staff and support from various government bodies.

The Executive Governor of Katsina State, Dr. Umar Dikko Radda, thanked the Federal Government for establishing the university in Daura and acknowledged the leadership of both former President Muhammadu Buhari and current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under whose tenure the project continued.

CCECC Chairman, Jason Zhang, emphasised the university’s role in strengthening Nigeria-China relations and contributing to technical advancement and job creation in Nigeria. The Director Overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Barr. Pius Oteh, and Vice Chancellor Prof. Umar Adam Katsayal also lauded the collaborative efforts that led to the establishment of this unique institution, which offers 14 approved courses.