Environmental issues lead us to establish Nigeria’s first environment varsity – Minister
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa | Photo: State House
… to generate homegrown solutions.
The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, on Monday said the Federal Government’s decision to establish the Federal University of Environment and Technology was driven by the urgent need to address environmental challenges confronting Nigeria and the wider world.
Alausa stated this in Abuja during the inauguration of the governing council and principal officers of the new university.
Located in Koroma, Rivers State, the institution is Nigeria’s first specialised university dedicated to environmental sciences. President Bola Tinubu approved its establishment in February 2025.
The minister explained that the new institution was not simply an expansion of the nation’s tertiary education system but a deliberate move to provide research-driven solutions to environmental issues.
“This university is envisioned as a centre of excellence in environmental sciences, renewable energy, climate change adaptation, disaster risk management, and sustainable technological research,” he said.
“It is expected to generate homegrown solutions that address both local needs and global aspirations.
“The choice of Koroma/Saakpenwa, Rivers State, a region that sits at the heart of Nigeria’s natural resource base and environmental realities, is both symbolic and intentional.”
Alausa charged members of the governing council to provide visionary leadership, strategic oversight, accountability and unwavering integrity. He urged them to ensure due process, promote merit, and safeguard the institution’s autonomy in line with existing laws and policy frameworks.
“Today’s ceremony represents another critical step in the Federal Government’s sustained efforts to expand equitable access to quality higher education, particularly in strategic fields that address both national and global development imperatives, notably environmental sustainability and technological innovation,” he said.
“You are to provide guidance on key issues from academic direction to budget discipline and institutional development while fostering harmony among stakeholders.”
The minister cautioned the council members against acting based on political or parochial interests, stressing that the success of the new university would depend on the “strength of character and collective wisdom” of the leadership.
Addressing the Vice-Chancellor and other principal officers, Alausa congratulated them on their appointments, noting that their work as the pioneer academic and administrative leadership would lay the foundation for generations to come.
“Build with clarity of vision, pursue academic excellence, and establish standards that reflect global best practices. Prioritise faculty development, student experience, strategic partnerships, and community engagement,” he said.
“You must work in synergy with your governing council, host community, and relevant agencies to create an environment of peace, productivity, and innovation. Your success will not only define the trajectory of the university but will contribute meaningfully to the sustainable development of the Niger Delta and the country as a whole.”
