Akwa Ibom Assembly praises Tinubu, Akpabio for new Federal University of Agriculture

New federal university celebrated by Akwa Ibom lawmakers

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly issued a formal tribute to President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno on 27 October 2026, acknowledging their contributions to the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Obio‑Akpa. This praise was triggered by a motion passed on Monday, which was introduced by Deputy Chief Whip Sampson Idiong, the representative for the Oruk Anam State Constituency.

Idiong described the university’s establishment as a landmark achievement for Oruk Anam and for Akwa Ibom State. Idiong stated that the new institution would broaden opportunities for higher education while fostering agricultural growth, research, and technological advancement throughout the state and the nation.

The motion further acknowledged the federal government’s endorsement of the university as a significant move toward realizing the community’s enduring desire for a federal institution dedicated to agricultural progress and expanded educational access.

Background

The Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Obio‑Akpa, is a new federal institution situated on the Obio‑Akpa campus of Akwa Ibom State University. The campus was made available by Governor Umo Eno to facilitate the federal university’s launch. The university’s first Vice‑Chancellor, Professor Joseph Essien, was appointed by the federal government and was congratulated by Idiong.

The initiative is part of a broader effort by the federal government to increase the number of federal universities and to focus on agricultural education and technology. The state assembly’s motion was moved by Sampson Idiong, a Deputy Chief Whip and member of the House representing Oruk Anam.

Why it matters

The establishment of the university is expected to have several direct effects on the people of Akwa Ibom and Nigeria more broadly:

* **Higher education access** – The new institution will provide more seats for students in agriculture and technology, addressing a long‑standing demand for federal university places in the state. * **Agricultural development** – By focusing on agricultural research and technology, the university aims to contribute to the state’s and country’s food security and rural development. * **Economic impact** – The university’s presence is anticipated to create jobs, stimulate local businesses and attract research funding. * **Political recognition** – The praise from the state assembly highlights the collaborative effort between the federal and state governments, underscoring the importance of inter‑governmental cooperation for national development.

The motion’s wording also reflected gratitude towards the federal leadership for approving the institution, signalling a positive relationship between the state and the federal government in advancing educational infrastructure.

What happens next

The article does not specify any further actions or dates beyond the commendation. The university’s operations will begin under the leadership of Professor Joseph Essien, and the state assembly’s motion serves as a formal acknowledgement of the federal government’s role in the project.

The commendation by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly is the latest public statement recognising the federal government’s investment in higher education and agricultural development in the region.