The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT Minna) Branch, has raised concern over what it described as an alleged attempt by the Niger State Government to take over the Bosso Campus of the institution.

In a statement signed by its Chairperson, Luqman ‘Kunle’ Oyewobi, the union condemned the move, describing it as unlawful and a threat to the autonomy and legal status of federal universities.

According to ASUU, the land and infrastructure of FUT Minna are federal assets held in trust for national educational development, stressing that any attempt by a state authority to appropriate or annex the Bosso campus would violate existing federal laws and constitutional provisions.

The union explained that the Bosso Campus is a legally recognised property of the university, established following the creation of FUT Minna by an act of the federal government in 1983.

It dismissed claims that the facility was merely leased to the institution as a temporary takeoff site.

ASUU said historical records indicate that the property, formerly St Malachy’s College, was formally transferred to the federal government after consultations between the federal and Niger State governments.

The transfer, it said, was concluded after an agreed compensation of ₦2.8 million was paid to the state government, effectively completing the handover of ownership.

The union also stressed that the Bosso Campus remains a fully functional academic environment and not idle land, noting that it houses key infrastructure for teaching, research, student accommodation, and administrative operations.

It added that the campus currently supports thousands of students and academic and non-academic staff, warning that any disruption to its ownership or operational control could undermine academic programmes, research activities, and the stability the university has built over the years.

Citing a communication from the National Universities Commission (NUC) dated 13 August 2014, ASUU maintained that facilities provided for federal universities do not revert to state governments.

The union argued that the state government’s alleged claim lacks legal, moral, and historical basis and could set a dangerous precedent for federal educational institutions across the country.

ASUU, therefore, called on the federal government, the National Assembly, and the NUC to urgently intervene and reaffirm the federal ownership of all properties belonging to FUT Minna.

It also urged the Niger State government to exercise restraint and pursue constructive dialogue rather than unilateral action.

The union advised the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago, to support and consolidate the growth of the university, noting his association with the institution as a recipient of an honorary doctorate degree.

ASUU reaffirmed its commitment to defending the integrity, autonomy, and assets of FUT Minna through lawful means.

Describing the development as a test of respect for constitutional order and the rule of law, the union noted, “It is only in the jungle that might is right. Niger State and Nigeria are not jungles.”

The Niger State Government reportedly claimed the Bosso Campus was a 40-year lease that had expired and planned to convert it into a teaching hospital for Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University.

However, FUT Minna and ASUU reject this, insisting the federal government bought the land outright in 1983.

Staff and students have protested since March 2, while the university’s alumni have petitioned President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to intervene. (Channels News)

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