The Senate Leader of the 10th National Assembly, Opeyemi Bamidele, has pledged an annual ₦200 million research fund for lecturers of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES), Iyin-Ekiti.
Bamidele made the announcement during the university’s first matriculation ceremony, where the institution formally matriculated 1,564 pioneer students into the 2025/2026 academic session.
In his goodwill message, the Senate Leader outlined an ambitious expansion plan aimed at strengthening both the academic and research capacity of the institution.
The Senate Leader disclosed that while the university currently operates four faculties, arrangements are underway to establish three additional faculties as part of its growth strategy.
Bamidele revealed that engagement has commenced with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements, particularly in the provision of structures and critical equipment.
He further announced that the university is developing a comprehensive medical complex to serve as a Medical Village to include a hospital equipped with an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a Diagnostic Centre with MRI and CT scanning machines, an Eye Care Centre, a Dental Care Centre and a Kidney and Dialysis Centre.
According to him, the facilities are designed to complement the proposed faculties and position FUTES as a centre of excellence in medical and environmental sciences.
His words, “While we celebrate, I am mindful of the work ahead. We have a permanent site that must be completed within a specified time. We currently have four faculties and plan to add three more. We have engaged with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, and they have advised us to focus on putting the required structures and equipment in place for accreditation.
“At the permanent site, three additional faculty buildings are under construction. We are also constructing a hospital with an Intensive Care Unit, a Diagnostic Centre with MRI and CT scanning machines, an Eye Care Centre, a Dental Care Centre and a Kidney and Dialysis Centre. These facilities will complement the proposed faculties and form part of a Medical Village. This is why, beyond excitement, I feel a strong sense of responsibility and motivation for what lies ahead. By the grace of God, it will be achieved.
“Beyond infrastructure, university education is about research. For the next five years, I will make available the sum of ₦200 million annually to support research and the work of the academic community. Though it may be a modest contribution, it is a commitment to strengthening this institution. We will also build partnerships with government and the private sector to ensure sustainable support for the university”.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Gbenga Aribisala disclosed that the institution commenced academic activities within one year of its establishment with 36 departments across four faculties and a total of 1,564 students.
Professor Aribisala described FUTES as a citadel of learning poised to rank among leading universities globally within its first decade, noting that the university’s mission is to contribute to the progress of humanity through transformative learning anchored on cutting-edge teaching and research.
The Vice-Chancellor outlined the institution’s objectives to include the provision of world-class education in technology and environmental sciences, promotion of innovation and creativity among students, development of sustainable solutions to environmental challenges and the entrenchment of ethical values.
He urged the pioneer students to be worthy ambassadors of the university and cautioned them against antisocial behaviours such as drug abuse, sexual assault and intimidation, stressing that discipline and character would be as important as academic excellence in their journey at FUTES.
The Governor of Ekiti, Biodun Oyebanji, represented by his Special Adviser on tertiary education, Dr Azeez Mayowa hailed President Bola Tinubu for assenting the bill of the University’s establishment, noting that his continued efforts to the development of education in the country can’t be overemphasized.
He also extolled the Senate Leader for his giant strides and in making sure that the University commence academic activities within one year of its establishment, urging the Students to focus more on creativity and service to humanity rather on certifications.
The Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Adeola Adeniyi Ajakaye eulogised the Senate Leader for facilitating the project, urging the Students to uphold the tenets of good conduct and honesty.
He also advised them not to hesitate to visit his Palace in case they encounter any challenges in their academic pursuit.