PLATEAU TO HOST FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF MINING AND GEOSCIENCES AS BILL CLEARS NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

Senator Diket Plang Hails Passage as a Game-Changer for Education and Economic Growth

Abuja, Nigeria – A major milestone in Nigeria’s quest for educational advancement and economic diversification has been recorded as the Bill for the establishment of the Federal University of Mining and Geosciences, Jos has passed its final legislative hurdle in the National Assembly. The Bill, sponsored by Senator Diket Plang of Plateau Central, now awaits the signature of the President to become law.

On Thursday, the House of Representatives unanimously adopted the Bill during its third reading, completing the concurrence process with the Senate, where the Bill had earlier scaled through. The legislative approval marks a critical step toward the creation of a specialized university that will serve as a hub for research, innovation, and manpower development in Nigeria’s solid minerals and geosciences sectors.

Senator Diket Plang, in his reaction, described the passage as a “defining moment for Plateau State and a strategic national investment.” He stated that the institution will serve not only as an academic citadel but also as a centre for innovation that will transform Nigeria’s mining industry and empower a new generation of professionals in geology, environmental management, mineral processing, and related disciplines.

“This university represents a long-overdue step in addressing the capacity gap in the mining and geosciences sector,” Senator Plang noted. “With Plateau’s rich mineral heritage, the state stands out as the natural location for this groundbreaking institution. This is about empowering youths, creating jobs, and unlocking Nigeria’s mineral wealth for national prosperity.”

The Federal University of Mining and Geosciences is expected to significantly enhance Nigeria’s local content and technical independence in the extractive industry. With advanced training and research opportunities, the university will deepen local expertise in mineral exploration, processing, and environmental sustainability.

The development has been widely celebrated across Plateau and other parts of the country. Community leaders, traditional institutions, youth groups, and industry stakeholders have praised Senator Plang for his foresight, dedication, and proactive legislative performance. The lawmaker, known for his developmental initiatives, reaffirmed that the passage of the Bill is part of his commitment to delivering people-centered representation.

“The joy this brings to our people is immeasurable,” said a traditional ruler in Plateau Central. “We are grateful to Senator Plang for turning what once seemed like a dream into a reality. This university will redefine the educational and economic landscape of our region.”

Once the Bill receives Presidential Assent, the Federal Ministry of Education will collaborate with relevant agencies to commence implementation. Plans are already underway for the development of the university’s infrastructure, recruitment of qualified faculty, and design of an industry-aligned curriculum that meets global standards.

Experts believe the institution will become a beacon of excellence not only in Nigeria but across Africa. It is projected to foster innovations that will make the mining sector more efficient, environmentally responsible, and economically rewarding.

The establishment of the Federal University of Mining and Geosciences, Jos, is a testament to what visionary leadership and strategic legislation can achieve. It stands as a lasting legacy for Plateau State, a catalyst for Nigeria’s industrial growth, and a symbol of hope for future generations.

As the nation awaits the final assent, there is renewed optimism that Nigeria is one step closer to fully harnessing the potential of its vast mineral resources.