President Bola Tinubu has approved the conversion of the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, into the Federal University of Mining, Engineering and Technology, Nasarawa, in a move the presidency described as part of efforts to strengthen technical education and unlock Nigeria's solid minerals potential.

The approval was announced on Friday by the President's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who said the decision aligns with the administration's commitment to human capital development and economic transformation through specialised education.

The presidency disclosed that the approval followed a proposal by Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu, representing Nasarawa West Senatorial District, who presented a case for establishing a specialised institution to leverage Nasarawa State's rich solid mineral deposits while supporting the Federal Government's industrialisation agenda.

According to the presidential directive, the new university will provide world class education, research and innovation in mining, engineering, mineral processing, metallurgy, manufacturing and emerging technologies, while producing the skilled workforce required to drive value addition, technological advancement and the sustainable exploitation of Nigeria's mineral resources.

"The approval reflects President Tinubu's commitment to aligning Nigeria's tertiary education system with national development priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda by establishing specialised institutions that address the country's economic needs and leverage its competitive advantages," the statement read.

President Tinubu has directed the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission and other relevant agencies to commence the administrative and legal processes required to implement the conversion in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

The presidency maintained that expanding specialised higher education would help produce graduates equipped with the knowledge and practical skills needed to support Nigeria's industrial ambitions and maximise opportunities in the solid minerals sector. The upgrade is expected to strengthen research, innovation and workforce development while positioning Nasarawa State as a major centre for mining and engineering education in the country.

Tinubu reaffirmed that his administration would continue to invest in education as a strategic driver of economic growth, innovation, job creation and national prosperity.