Group raises N232.5m for agric varsity takeoff in Bayelsa

Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa

A group under the auspices of the Federal University of Agriculture Support Group (FSG) has raised a total of N232.5 million for the eventual take-off of the newly established university in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa.

Dr. Ala-Peters David, Coordinator of the Support group, stated this while delivering a keynote address at the fundraising ceremony in Yenagoa on Tuesday.

He noted that the group decided to organise the fundraising in compliance with the presidential directive that all newly established universities kick off by September 2025.

He explained that Bayelsa people would be the direct beneficiaries of the institutions despite the fact that it is a Federal University of Agriculture, Bassambiri, as education is the bedrock of every society.

David further reiterated that this is the first higher institution in Bassambiri, Opu-Nembe. This prompted members of the fundraising committee to organise the event. They aimed to leverage on the granting of the institution by the Federal Government.

He appealed directly to the well-meaning people of Bayelsa. He also extended his appeal to Nigerians as a whole to support the growth and development of the school.

In the same vein, Gov Douye Diri of Bayelsa was represented at the occasion by the Commissioner of Education, Dr Gentle Emelah. He noted that the state government had done a critical assessment. They conducted an appraisal of the Federal University of Agriculture, Bassambirii.

The government is committed to assisting in the construction of basic facilities. These facilities are for a conducive academic environment for the students and staff of the institution.

He also noted that right from the inception of the present administration, the state government has always prioritised educational policy in the state.

He was, however, silent on the donation to the take-off, but pledged adequate logistical support to kick-start the university

While speaking with newsmen at the event, Bob Manuel who is the Chief Executive Officer of Bontrac Tractors Ltd  donated N1 m and said that time has come to diversify from oil and gas to agriculture as it is capable of being the mainstay of the nation’s economy.

He also said that agriculture alone is capable of mopping up the teeming unemployed youths across the Niger Delta.

He called on all stakeholders in the educational sector in the South/South region of the country to rally round the new university for the overall benefits of the people.