By Amos Tauna, Kaduna
Professors from Southern Kaduna in Kaduna State have pledged their commitment to working both individually and as a united team to accelerate the search for comprehensive solutions to the insecurity challenges faced in their region and across Nigeria.
Professor John Gambo Laah, Chairman of the Forum of Southern Kaduna Professors, conveyed this message while addressing journalists in Kaduna on Sunday regarding the developments in the area. He stated, “As critical stakeholders in Southern Kaduna and indeed Nigeria, we have resolved to take proactive measures to support the impactful initiatives put forth by the government at all levels, as well as by our elected and appointed representatives. Over the past two years, both the Federal and Kaduna State Governments have made significant investments in our region.”
He highlighted the tangible outcomes of these investments, including the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia; the Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan; the Military Command Centre in Samaru Kataf; the Command Secondary School in Zango Kataf; the Vocational and Technology Skills Acquisition City in Samaru Kataf; the UBEC Junior Vocational Secondary School in Jagindi; and the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Study Centre in Mabuhu, Zonzon. He affirmed that these initiatives are crucial for equipping the youth with the practical skills and vocational training necessary for long-term personal and regional advancement.
Laah commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia and the Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan, expressing that this has reinforced their belief in the Tinubu administration. He remarked, “It is clear that the President understands that Southern Kaduna has suffered neglect from successive governments. He has demonstrated that ubi jus ibi remedium (there is no wrong without a remedy).”
He also expressed gratitude to Vice President Kashim Shettima for his compassionate approach to issues affecting Kaduna State, particularly Southern Kaduna, noting his commitment to ensuring the establishment of both a Federal University and a Federal Medical Centre in the area.
“We would like to extend our thanks to the Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Uba Sani. Since his inauguration on 29th May 2023, he has shown his dedication to inclusive governance. His statements, actions, and body language reflect his sincerity and commitment to ensuring all parts of Kaduna State benefit from the dividends of democracy. He has been a staunch supporter of the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan and the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia. We cannot express our gratitude enough,” Laah added.
He emphasised that the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia and the Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan has created platforms for professors to unite and contribute to the development of their beloved region and country. With over 196 professors from Southern Kaduna, they are eager to make meaningful contributions to the clinical, academic, and research cultures of both institutions.
“We are also prepared to assist the management of both institutions in fulfilling their ethical and fiduciary responsibilities,” he continued.
The forum additionally expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General CG Musa, for his efforts in addressing insecurity in Kaduna State. They noted the establishment of three new Military Commands, one of which is located in Samaru, Zango Kataf Local Government Area, and commended the quality of construction at the sites of the Military Command Barracks in Samaru Kataf and the Command Secondary School in Zango Kataf.
Laah assured that the Forum of Southern Kaduna Professors remains committed to working as individuals and as a cohesive team to expedite the search for comprehensive solutions to the insecurity challenges in their region and Nigeria as a whole. He added that they would continue to support the efforts of the CDS and effectively collaborate with all stakeholders and the government at all levels to foster mutual trust and peaceful coexistence among all communities in the region.
