Federal University of Technology, Minna

30/04/2026

FUTMINNA TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT, NURTURE ROOTS FOUNDATION HOST STUDENT ENHANCEMENT PROGRAMME 2026

By Lami Bawa

The Department of Telecommunications Engineering Technology, Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA), in collaboration with Nurture Roots Foundation, has organised the Student Enhancement Programme 2026 with the theme, “Empowering Future-Ready Engineers through Innovation, Industry Membership, and Emerging Technologies.”
The event, which featured a Students’ Innovation/Pitch Showcase, was held on Monday, 27th April, 2026 at the NITDA Hall, Main Campus.

Declaring the programme open, the Vice-Chancellor, FUTMINNA, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, represented by the Director of Academic Planning, Prof. John Alhassan, congratulated the department and its partners, particularly Nurture Roots Foundation, for initiating such a valuable programme for students. He noted that the initiative aligns with the University’s vision of producing industry-ready graduates who will make meaningful contributions nationally and globally. He also encouraged students to participate actively and maximise every learning opportunity presented to them.

In his remarks, the Dean, School of Engineering and Engineering Technology (SEET), Engr. Prof. Babatunde A. Adegboye, commended the School management and collaborating partners for supporting the vision of the institution through impactful student-focused initiatives. He assured students that more developmental programmes would be organised across departments within the School.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Head of Department, Telecommunications Engineering, Engr. Prof. Zubair Suleiman, appreciated the presence of participants, University leadership, regulatory agencies, and professional bodies, noting that their participation would provide students with invaluable insights and inspiration. He also acknowledged the Vice-Chancellor for his commitment to academic excellence and creating platforms that enhance student development. He urged students to seize the opportunity to engage, ask questions, and build networks that would shape their future careers.

Speaking on behalf of Nurture Roots Foundation, Member, Board of Trustees, Dr. Abubakar Dahiru, stated that opportunities often come through people and networks. He explained that the Foundation had connected professionals from global organisations such as Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and others to share first-hand experiences and guide students on navigating global technology careers.

Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives of NITDA, NASENI, and other stakeholders, who commended the organisers for the timely initiative. They also advised students to ensure that new and existing technologies are safe, secure, and productive for societal advancement.

The programme featured two panel sessions on the topics: “Building the Future: Engineering, AI and Career Opportunities in the Global Digital Economy” and “From Classroom to Career: Preparing, Positioning and Getting Started.” Speakers included Dr. Bashir Mohammed (Amazon), Dr. Ibrahim Waziri (Google), Dr. Aliyu Ahmed (Microsoft), alongside other industry experts and stakeholders.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Prof. Abubakar S. Mohammed expressed appreciation to the organisers, partners, especially Nurture Roots Foundation, speakers, and participants, both physical and virtual, for contributing their time and expertise to the success of the programme.

Photo Credit Abdulrauf
Mustaph

30/04/2026

125TH INAUGURAL LECTURE: PROF SULYMAN HIGHLIGHTS LINK BETWEEN HOUSING AND INFRASTRUCTURE

By Mohammed Abubakar

“Housing and infrastructure are two sides of the same coin and Effective housing cannot exist without adequate infrastructure such as roads, electricity, water supply and waste management systems.” Prof. Aremu Olanrewaju Sulyman said, while delivering the 125th Inaugural Lecture of the Federal University of Technology, Minna.

The lecture titled: “Housing and Infrastructure: Two Sides of the Same Coin,” was held on Thursday, 30th April, 2026 at the University Auditorium, Main Campus.

The Professor of Urban and Regional Planning described housing and infrastructure as inseparable components of sustainable development.

He noted that housing occupies over 50 per cent of urban land use and remains central to the planning and functionality of cities and rural settlements.

According to him, infrastructure not only supports housing but also drives economic growth, improves living standards, and enhances property values.

“Housing demand stimulates infrastructure expansion, while infrastructure in turn makes housing more functional and desirable,” he explained, adding that both sectors collectively shape urban growth and national development.

The inaugural lecturer presented findings from his extensive research on informal settlements in Nigeria’s North-Central region, identifying poverty, rural, urban migration, and affordability challenges as major drivers. He revealed that residents of such settlements often face serious health risks, including high incidences of malaria and typhoid, largely due to poor housing conditions and inadequate infrastructure.

The Don also highlighted his contributions to studies on housing markets, urban densification, rural infrastructure development, and public housing quality, noting disparities in infrastructure distribution across settlements. He called for urgent reforms, including amendments to the Land Use Act, expansion of affordable housing finance, adoption of green building practices, and improved use of technology such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in planning.

Describing the lecture as both inaugural and valedictory, Prof. Sulyman disclosed that he would be retiring at the end of May after attaining the mandatory retirement age, marking the presentation as a culmination of his academic career.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, commended the lecturer for his scholarly depth and practical insights, noting that the lecture addressed pressing national challenges. He described the topic as timely, particularly in the face of rapid urbanisation and infrastructure deficits in Nigeria.

Photo Credit Elijah Yisa

30/04/2026

29/04/2026

FUTMINNA VC COMMENDS NAEC FOR SUPPORTING FOOD SAFETY PROJECT WITH NEXT-GENERATION SEQUENCER

By Lydia Legbo

The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT, Minna), Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, has, on behalf of the Africa Centre of Excellence for Mycotoxin and Food Safety(ACEMFS ) FUT, Minna and the RAF5091 Project Team, expressed profound appreciation to the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) for the procurement and supply of a Next-Generation Sequencer (NGS) in support of the project titled: “Enhancing Human and Analytical Capacity for Food Safety Standards (AFRA).”

The appreciation was conveyed in a letter delivered on Monday, 27th April, 2026, by the Centre Leader, ACEMFS, FUT, Minna, Prof. Anthony H. Makun, to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NAEC, Engr. Dr. Anthony Inalegwu Godwin Ekedegwa, at the Commission’s Office in Abuja.

Prof. Kuta commended the Chairman/CEO for his kind consideration and prompt intervention in facilitating the acquisition of the critical equipment, describing the gesture as a major milestone in the implementation of the project.

He noted that the provision of the equipment would significantly enhance the University’s capacity to generate reliable scientific data for food safety risk assessment standards setting and regulatory enforcement.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, the availability of the advanced analytical facility will further strengthen laboratory capabilities among participating institutions, including FUT, Minna, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.

He added that the equipment would support cutting-edge research and improve national and regional efforts aimed at safeguarding public health. It would also contribute meaningfully to achieving the objectives of the RAF5091 Project through improved compliance with food safety standards and facilitation of trade.

Prof. Kuta further stated that the equipment would enhance research capacity in detecting emerging food-borne pathogens, while also enabling the tracking of antimicrobial and antibiotic-resistant strains to improve public health outcomes.

He acknowledged and commended the Commission’s sustained commitment to strengthening scientific infrastructure and capacity development in Nigeria, noting that the intervention had made a substantial impact. He also expressed optimism for continued collaboration in achieving shared national development goals.

Responding, the Chairman/CEO of NAEC, Engr. Dr. Ekedegwa, disclosed that the support package includes installation and training components to ensure optimal use of the equipment.

He urged the University and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the country derives maximum benefit from the machine, stressing that it should not become one of many under utilised facilities.

The Chairman assured the delegation that the Commission would do everything possible to ensure timely installation of the equipment and proper training of personnel for effective operation.

The NAEC Chief Executive also showed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for the letter of appreciation and for sending a delegation led by Prof. Makun, while pledging continued and fruitful collaboration with the University.

The delegation also paid a courtesy visit to the Director of the Nutrition and Food Safety Department, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Abuja, Mal Nuhu Adamu Kilishi, where they held productive discussions on potential areas of collaboration and partnership.

24/04/2026

FUTMINNA CHEMICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT HONOURS PIONEER LECTURER AT RETIREMENT

By Lami Bawa

The Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Infrastructure, Process Engineering and Technology (SIPET), Federal University of Technology, Minna, has celebrated one of its pioneer lecturers, Engr. Prof. Folorunso Aberuagba, on the occasion of his retirement from service.

The retirement send-off ceremony, held on Thursday, 23 April 2026 at the PTDF Lecture Theatre, Main Campus, brought together staff, students, and well wishers to honour a distinguished academic, researcher, and mentor.

In a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Engr. Prof. Mohammed Abdullahi, the University Management commended the celebrant for his immense contributions to scholarship, mentorship, and the growth of the department and the institution at large.

He expressed the University’s appreciation for his years of dedicated service and lauded the organisers for recognising such a legacy, urging others to emulate the culture of honouring excellence.

Also speaking, the Dean of SIPET, Engr. Prof. Olufemi Olugboji, described Prof. Aberuagba as a source of inspiration, a dependable mentor, and a reservoir of wisdom. He noted that the celebrant’s ability to nurture confidence and promote excellence among colleagues and students remains exemplary, adding that the School would continue to benefit from his wealth of experience even in retirement.

In his opening remarks, the Head of Department, Engr. Prof. Manase Auta, congratulated the honouree on a successful and impactful career, highlighting his significant contributions to academic development, mentorship, and institutional growth. He also presented a brief biography, stressing the celebrant’s remarkable academic achievements and professional journey.

Colleagues from within and outside the Department took turns to pay glowing tributes, acknowledging Prof. Aberuagba’s enduring influence on their academic and personal lives. They praised his role as a pillar within the Department and School, whose mentorship has shaped generations of engineers.

In his response, Engr. Prof. Folorunso Aberuagba expressed gratitude to God for a fulfilling career and to the University for the opportunity to serve. He reflected on his journey with appreciation, noting the mutual impact between himself and those he mentored.
“I retire with a grateful heart, content that I have given my best and contributed meaningfully to the growth of others,” he said.

Photo Credit: Abdulrauf Mustapha

24/04/2026

FUTMINNA MECHATRONICS ENGINEERING UNVEILS 10 INNOVATION STUDENTS' PROJECTS TACKLING REAL- WORLD CHALLENGES

By Zainab Lawal

The Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMinna), has showcased ten innovative students' projects aimed at addressing real-world challenges across agriculture, energy, security, healthcare, and automation.

The event, with the theme
“Mechatronics Engineering Capstone Project Defence” was held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the SICT Complex Foyer, Main Campus.

Declaring the exhibition open, the Head, Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Engr. Dr. Taliha Folorunso, described the event as the first of its kind in the department, and it is a vital platform for showcasing students’ innovation, creativity, and dedication. He noted that the projects reflect a strong commitment to applying engineering knowledge to solve practical societal problems and advance technological development.

He further stated that the project was designed to equip students for their final-year projects.

"As we can see today, the projects are beyond the scope of final-year projects for undergraduates," he noted.

Representing the Dean SEET, the Deputy Dean, SEET, Dr Alkali Babawuya commended all participating groups for transforming ideas into functional solutions, adding that such exhibitions promote experiential learning, collaboration, and academic excellence.

Also speaking, the Head of Department Computer Engineering, Dr. Eustace N. Dogo, praised the students for their creativity and technical competence. He described the exhibition as a testament to the students’ ingenuity and urged them to continue striving for excellence while fostering collaboration in their future careers.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Abubakar Sadiq of the Department of Electrical Engineering applauded the students for their innovation and technical depth. He highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between Electrical and Mechatronics Engineering, noting that such synergy is key to solving complex challenges.

Dr Sadiq further emphasised the role of innovation in national development, particularly in critical sectors such as agriculture, energy, and security. He encouraged students to refine their projects for commercialisation and real-world application, while maintaining professionalism, continuous learning, and teamwork.

21/04/2026

VC URGES SIWES STUDENTS TO BE WORTHY AMBASSADORS

By Yusuf Zurmi

The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, has charged 400-level students embarking on the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) to serve as worthy ambassadors of the institution.

Prof. Kuta gave this charge during the SIWES orientation programme held on Monday, April 20, 2026, at the University Auditorium, Main Campus.

Represented by the University Industrial Liaison Officer, Prof. Ezekiel Salawu Yisa, the Vice-Chancellor explained that the scheme was established to provide students with first-hand experience and practical application of the knowledge acquired in the classroom.

He emphasised that the work environment differs significantly from the academic setting and urged the students to pay close attention during the orientation, as it would prepare them for the realities of the workplace.

The Vice-Chancellor further noted that the SIWES programme spans 24 weeks (six months), during which students are expected to acquire relevant practical skills. He cautioned them to conduct themselves responsibly and avoid any actions that could tarnish the image and integrity of the University.

In her remarks, the Deputy Head of Training, Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Minna, Mrs. Adishetu Usman-Adama, who represented the Director-General/Area Manager, commended the Vice-Chancellor and the university management for their commitment to the success of the SIWES programme.

She highlighted that the primary objective of SIWES is to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience, noting that what students learn in the classroom differs from real-world industry practices.

Mrs. Adishetu also outlined key guidelines for participation, encouraging students to remain humble, open minded, and eager to learn throughout the programme. She advised that students must submit their logbooks weekly to their industry based supervisors for comments and evaluation of their activities.

The orientation programme was conducted in phases for the 2025/2026 academic session and involved 400-level students from various schools, including SET, SLS, SICT, SIT, SPS, SEET, and SIPET. SIWES coordinators from the respective schools were also in attendance.

Photo Credit Abdulrauf Alhassan

20/04/2026

FUTMINNA HOSTS NUC TEAMS FOR VERIFICATION OF SIX NEW ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES

By Abdullahi Danbakaba

The Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) has today welcomed assessment teams from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for the resource verification of six newly introduced academic programmes.

The teams were received on Monday, April 20, 2026, at the Academic Publishing Centre (APC), Main Campus, by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, who expressed the University’s preparedness for the successful commencement of the programmes.

Prof. Kuta commended the Executive Secretary of the NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, for his leadership and continued support to the institution.

He emphasised that resource verification and accreditation exercises conducted by the Commission are vital to enhancing the quality and standards of the Nigerian University System.

Speaking on behalf of the NUC delegation, the Lead Representative, Engr. Afolabi Ogumusi, stated that the purpose of the visit was to assess the readiness of the University to run the new programmes. He expressed confidence that the exercise would further boost the institution’s reputation and ranking.

The newly introduced programmes are
B.Tech Nuclear Science,
B.Tech Artificial Intelligence (AI),
B.Tech Water, Sanitation and Hygiene,
B.Tech Mining Engineering,
B.Tech Intelligence and Security Studies and
B.Tech Nuclear Engineering.

Photo Credit Elijah Yisa

09/04/2026

EXPERT RAISE ALARM OVER NIGERIA’S CONSTRUCTION CRISIS, CALLS FOR REFORM

By Zaniab Lawal

Nigeria’s construction industry is under strain from inefficiency, corruption, and limited skilled manpower, with experts urging urgent reforms to reposition the sector for economic growth.

Professor Luqman Oyekunle Oyewobi made this known during the 124th Inaugural Lecture of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, where he described the industry as an “ailing elephant” in need of revival.

Presenting the Inaugural Lecture with the theme: The Nigerian Construction Industry: The Ailing Elephant - A Menu of Cure, on Thursday 9th April 2026 at the University' s Auditorium, Main Campus,the Professor of Quantity Surveying (Construction Economics and Management), highlighted key challenges, including a housing deficit of about 28 million units, poor infrastructure, high construction costs, and unreliable power supply, which significantly increase project expenses.

He also identified weak procurement systems, political interference, and inadequate technical expertise as major setbacks.

Oyewobi recommended the adoption of transparent e-procurement systems, strengthened public-private partnerships, integration of digital construction technologies, and greater investment in technical and vocational education.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Faruk Adamu Kuta, commended the lecture, noting that the issues raised are critical to national development and require collective action.

The event drew academics, industry stakeholders, and ASUU officials, while a minute of silence was observed in honour of the late Professor Abu Mallam, former ASUU Chairman and Abuja Zonal Coordinator.

Photo Credit Elijah Yisa