The Federal University of Transportation in Daura, Katsina State, has officially welcomed its inaugural cohort of 478 students during a ceremony held over the weekend.

This institution was established with the assistance of the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), which has been commended by the Federal Government for its dedication to the university as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

During the ceremony, the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali, recognized CCECC for its comprehensive support in the university's establishment and for contributing to the successful matriculation event.

He underscored the critical role of education in fostering national development and encouraged the students to seize this opportunity to expand their knowledge and positively impact the nation’s economy.

Senator Alkali also mentioned that the Federal University of Transportation is set to receive funding from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) for the 2025 fiscal year.

He clarified that although the university's entrance is labeled ‘Muhammadu Buhari University of Transportation,’ its official name remains the Federal University of Transportation, Daura.

The minister expressed gratitude for the hospitality of Katsina State, particularly acknowledging Governor Dikko Radda for his support in the university's establishment.

Reflecting on the advancements since his visit in October 2023, Alkali noted that the institution initially had only its vice-chancellor on staff, with no additional personnel. Despite these initial hurdles, the university successfully commenced academic activities for the 2023/2024 session.

He further conveyed the government's gratitude to CCECC for its contributions during the first phase of the university's development and encouraged the company to continue its support as the institution moves into its second phase of expansion.


Alkali also announced that President Bola Tinubu had sanctioned the university's funding as part of the 2024 Appropriation Act, highlighting the government's dedication to advancing higher education.

Prof. Umar Adam-Katsayal, the university's inaugural vice-chancellor, disclosed that JAMB had allocated a quota of 500 students for the 2023/2024 academic year.

With over 1,250 applications received, the university sought an additional 10% of the approved quota, which JAMB subsequently approved. In total, 478 students were admitted into 14 academic programs.

Minister Alkali represented President Bola Tinubu, who acts as the institution's visitor, during the event.

Among the distinguished guests were Adeoye Adeleye, the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Guest of Honour, along with Dr. Mercy Ilori, the director of transport planning and coordination in the ministry, who is also a member of the university’s Governing Council.

The matriculation ceremony signifies a pivotal moment for the university as it embarks on its mission to cultivate skilled professionals in the transportation industry.