The Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) has conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Entrepreneurship (Honoris Causa) on Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State at its 33rd Convocation Ceremony today.
The award recognizes his lifetime dedication to entrepreneurship, human capital development, and economic empowerment.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Sani commended FUTMINNA for its invaluable contributions to advancing technological education in Nigeria, describing the institution as a leader in innovation and excellence. He praised its motto, “Technology for Empowerment,” as proof of its clarity of vision and commitment to training young Nigerians who will drive the nation’s industrial and technological revolution.
The governor urged policymakers at all levels to prioritize Research and Development (R&D), stressing that leading economies allocate significant resources to innovation. “We must prioritize institutions like FUTMINNA because they hold the key to our technological breakthrough. Researchers in our universities are creative, innovative, and committed, but funding has always been the major constraint,” he stated.
Governor Sani also highlighted his administration’s efforts to empower youths through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship. He announced that Kaduna State is building three Vocational and Technological Skills Acquisition Cities, which will train at least 12,000 youths annually for jobs in industries and businesses attracted to the state.
Additionally, he revealed that his government is remodelling the historic Panteka Market in Kaduna into a major centre for skills acquisition, engaging over 38,000 artisans. “We are carrying out a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade at Panteka Market to make it an international hub for skills training and job creation,” he noted.
Governor Sani further disclosed plans for a strategic partnership with FUTMINNA, announcing that a technical team from Kaduna State will visit the university for discussions on research collaborations, technical cooperation, and educational exchanges with higher institutions in the state.
Expressing gratitude to FUTMINNA’s Governing Council, Senate, Management, and Staff, Governor Sani described the honorary doctorate as a humbling honour. He also congratulated his fellow awardees and the graduating students, urging them to contribute to national development with integrity and innovation.
The recognition further cements Governor Uba Sani’s legacy as a champion of entrepreneurship, skills development, and economic transformation in Nigeria.
