Bomba Dauda
The Forum of Southern Kaduna Professors (FOSKAP) has commended the Federal and Kaduna State Governments for recent landmark investments in education, healthcare, and security infrastructure in the region. Speaking at a press conference held at the Epitome Hotel Event Centre in Barnawa, Kaduna, the group emphasized the transformative impact of these initiatives on the socio-economic future of Southern Kaduna.
Addressing the media, FOSKAP Chairman, Professor John Gambo Laah, expressed appreciation for the establishment of key federal institutions, including the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia; the Federal Medical Centre, Kafanchan; and multiple educational and military facilities across the region. These, he noted, are essential for youth empowerment and long-term regional development.
“The Southern Kaduna region is undergoing a significant economic and political transformation. These projects lay a strong foundation for vocational and technical training, healthcare access, and improved security,” said Prof. Laah.
FOSKAP Chairman, Professor John Gambo Laah
FOSKAP lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the university and medical centre, describing the move as a historic correction of decades-long neglect. The group also praised the appointments of Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah as Pro-Chancellor and Professor Barnabas Qurix as Vice Chancellor of the new university, as well as Dr. Haruna Abubakar Shehu as the Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan.
“We believe these appointments bring integrity and experience to these institutions. Truly, square pegs have been placed in square holes,” Laah said.
The Vice President, Mallam Kashim Shettima, and Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Uba Sani, also received accolades for their roles in supporting and facilitating these federal projects. Senator Sunday Marshall Katung was commended for sponsoring the bill that led to the establishment of the university and its teaching hospital, with the promise of continued support from the Forum.
The Forum further acknowledged the contributions of Hon. Dan Amos and Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji in the development of education and healthcare infrastructure, as well as General CG Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, for improving security in the region through the establishment of a new military command in Samaru, Zango Kataf.
With over 196 professors of Southern Kaduna origin, the Forum pledged to contribute meaningfully to the academic, clinical, and ethical growth of these institutions. A retreat is also scheduled in the coming weeks to align the Forum’s efforts with the evolving needs of the region.
In conclusion, FOSKAP extended gratitude to traditional leaders and the people of Southern Kaduna for their patience, resilience, and contributions to peacebuilding during challenging times.
