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Scandal, Seizure, and a New Beginning: How Nok University Became Federal University of Applied Sciences

By Achimi Muktar

In a dramatic turn of events, the Federal Government has officially taken over Nok University, Kachia, Kaduna State, renaming it the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia. This follows a landmark ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja, ordering the final forfeiture of the privately owned institution to the government.

The ruling marks the end of a controversial chapter for Nok University, which was found to have been built with illicit funds. The institution's founder, Anthony Hassan, a former Director of Finance and Accounts at the Federal Ministry of Health, was accused of embezzling public funds to establish the university and other high-value properties, including Gwasmyen Water Factory, Gwasmyen International Hotel, and Gwasmyen Event Centre.

A Presidential Directive and a New Vision

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu wasted no time in reshaping the university’s future, directing its immediate transition into a federal institution. During a formal handover ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Vice President Kashim Shettima called it a historic moment for the nation and for Kaduna State.

"This is a great day for the country and for Kaduna State. The greater credit should go to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for driving the process and making it the first item on the agenda of the Federal Executive Council," Shettima declared.

He further announced that the university will be included in the 2025 federal budget, ensuring that by September 2025, the institution will welcome its first batch of students.

The Corruption Scandal Behind the Takeover

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) led the charge against Hassan, revealing shocking details of how a career civil servant had accumulated enormous wealth far beyond his legitimate earnings.

During the trial, the EFCC presented compelling evidence that Hassan had abused his position to misappropriate funds, using them to finance the university and associated businesses. Despite his legal defense, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ruled in favor of the final forfeiture of all assets linked to him, transferring ownership to the government.

A Boon for Southern Kaduna’s Development

Beyond education, the takeover also signals renewed government investment in Southern Kaduna’s infrastructure. Vice President Shettima pledged massive road construction projects to complement the new university.

"The governor is already making significant progress in reconstructing key roads in the region. However, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has promised to complete the efforts by awarding contracts for the construction of major roads in the region," Shettima added.

Acknowledging Key Players

Several notable figures played a role in ensuring a smooth transition, including General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs, and Senator Sunday Marshall.

Shettima particularly praised Bishop Kukah for his unwavering commitment to peace and development in Southern Kaduna.

What’s Next for the New University?

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the transformation as a major step in expanding Nigeria’s human capital. He assured that all necessary structures would be in place for the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia to begin academic operations in September 2025.

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, also lauded the move, emphasizing its significance in ensuring inclusive governance and educational access for all.

"Today demonstrates yet another evidence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s commitment to rapidly expanding Nigeria’s educational, health, and social welfare sectors," he stated.

With a fresh start under government ownership, the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, is set to reshape education in Northern Nigeria, proving that even in the face of corruption scandals, new opportunities can emerge.

Scandal, Seizure, and a New Beginning: How Nok University Became Federal University of Applied Sciences

By Achimi Muktar

In a dramatic turn of events, the Federal Government has officially taken over Nok University, Kachia, Kaduna State, renaming it the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia. This follows a landmark ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja, ordering the final forfeiture of the privately owned institution to the government.

The ruling marks the end of a controversial chapter for Nok University, which was found to have been built with illicit funds. The institution's founder, Anthony Hassan, a former Director of Finance and Accounts at the Federal Ministry of Health, was accused of embezzling public funds to establish the university and other high-value properties, including Gwasmyen Water Factory, Gwasmyen International Hotel, and Gwasmyen Event Centre.

A Presidential Directive and a New Vision

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu wasted no time in reshaping the university’s future, directing its immediate transition into a federal institution. During a formal handover ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Vice President Kashim Shettima called it a historic moment for the nation and for Kaduna State.

"This is a great day for the country and for Kaduna State. The greater credit should go to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for driving the process and making it the first item on the agenda of the Federal Executive Council," Shettima declared.

He further announced that the university will be included in the 2025 federal budget, ensuring that by September 2025, the institution will welcome its first batch of students.

The Corruption Scandal Behind the Takeover

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) led the charge against Hassan, revealing shocking details of how a career civil servant had accumulated enormous wealth far beyond his legitimate earnings.

During the trial, the EFCC presented compelling evidence that Hassan had abused his position to misappropriate funds, using them to finance the university and associated businesses. Despite his legal defense, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ruled in favor of the final forfeiture of all assets linked to him, transferring ownership to the government.

A Boon for Southern Kaduna’s Development

Beyond education, the takeover also signals renewed government investment in Southern Kaduna’s infrastructure. Vice President Shettima pledged massive road construction projects to complement the new university.

"The governor is already making significant progress in reconstructing key roads in the region. However, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has promised to complete the efforts by awarding contracts for the construction of major roads in the region," Shettima added.

Acknowledging Key Players

Several notable figures played a role in ensuring a smooth transition, including General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs, and Senator Sunday Marshall.

Shettima particularly praised Bishop Kukah for his unwavering commitment to peace and development in Southern Kaduna.

What’s Next for the New University?

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the transformation as a major step in expanding Nigeria’s human capital. He assured that all necessary structures would be in place for the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia to begin academic operations in September 2025.

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, also lauded the move, emphasizing its significance in ensuring inclusive governance and educational access for all.

"Today demonstrates yet another evidence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s commitment to rapidly expanding Nigeria’s educational, health, and social welfare sectors," he stated.

With a fresh start under government ownership, the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, is set to reshape education in Northern Nigeria, proving that even in the face of corruption scandals, new opportunities can emerge.