The Governing Council and principal officers of the newly approved Federal University of Agriculture, Bassambiri, (FUAB) had a dynamic and impactful week in Bayelsa State, laying the groundwork for the institution’s establishment.
The week’s events commenced with a visit to the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, at the Government House in Yenagoa. PulseNets reported that the delegation, headed by Senator John K. Brambaifa, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, included prominent figures such as Sir Richard Odibo, Dr. Doyin Johnson, Haj. Fatima Abdulahi, and Hon. Christy Omuruyi, along with the Vice Chancellor, Professor Reginald Keremah, and other key officers including the Registrar, Bursar, and Librarian.
During the discussions with the Governor, PulseNets learned that crucial matters concerning the university’s take-off site in Bassambiri were thoroughly deliberated. The Niger Delta Herald reported that these discussions concluded on a positive note, with Governor Diri pledging his administration’s unwavering support to ensure the institution’s swift and smooth establishment.
This visit signifies a pivotal moment as the university inches closer to becoming a premier center for agricultural education and research in the region. Governor Diri, speaking to PulseNets, emphasized the institution’s vital role in advancing Bayelsa State’s development by fostering agricultural innovation and boosting economic growth.
PulseNets also learned that the Governing Council convened its inaugural meeting during the week, addressing immediate challenges such as infrastructural requirements, staffing needs, and community engagement essential for setting up the new university. According to Senator Brambaifa, who spoke to PulseNets, the council engaged in in-depth discussions and devised practical solutions to guarantee the university’s smooth and effective launch.
“We are confident that with the commitment of the council and the support of all stakeholders, the Federal University of Agriculture, Bassambiri, will soon become a center of excellence in agricultural education and research,” Senator Brambaifa told PulseNets. He further stated, “We are moving swiftly to ensure that the take-off happens seamlessly and that the institution becomes fully operational in the shortest possible time.”
The week concluded with a tour of the proposed take-off site in Bassambiri, Nembe. PulseNets reported that the delegation, again led by Senator Brambaifa, was warmly welcomed by the chiefs, elders, and people of Bassambiri. Despite a delay in visiting the permanent site due to logistical issues, the inspection of ongoing renovations at existing structures was described as productive.
A community chief, speaking on behalf of the people to PulseNets, assured the Governing Council of the community’s full cooperation, stating, “We are committed to seeing the Federal University of Agriculture, Bassambiri, thrive. The community will provide all necessary support to make sure this project succeeds.”
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As the council and principal officers concluded their week-long activities in Bayelsa State, optimism is high that the Federal University of Agriculture will soon be fully operational, fulfilling its mission to drive agricultural education, research, and innovation for the benefit of both the state and the nation.