Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has pledged unwavering support for the Federal University of Kashere (FUK), describing the conferment of an honorary doctorate degree on him as a call to action to accelerate development in the institution.
Speaking on Saturday during the university’s convocation ceremony in Gombe State, where he was honoured alongside other distinguished Nigerians, the former Abia State Governor and current Senator representing Abia Central expressed appreciation to the university’s leadership and governing council.
He said, “I thank the Almighty God and commend the Visitor, Pro-Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, the Council, and management team of this university for this recognition. You have made us proud ambassadors of this institution,” Kalu stated.
He assured that he and his fellow honourees would mobilize support to boost the university’s growth. “We will start and continue to support this university. It will now be at the front of our developmental priorities, especially in terms of infrastructure,” he said.
Kalu also commended former Gombe State Governor, Senator Danjuma Goje, for his consistent interventions in the university’s development. “In my six years in the Senate, I have witnessed Senator Goje repeatedly support this institution. I sincerely thank him,” he noted.
The lawmaker also acknowledged Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for his contributions to the university, urging him to do even more to enhance FUK’s capacity. “To the university community, we are now your brothers and sisters in progress. You have shown us love, and we will reciprocate in full. Watch out for our support, we are coming,” Kalu declared.
He equally appreciated his colleagues in the National Assembly for attending the ceremony, emphasizing the significance of collective support for education and national development.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Umar Pate has commended Senator Kalu who he described as a recipient that needs little or no introduction in across Nigeria. He said, “he is a prominent bridge builder and strong believer in Nigeria’s unity and development. A media tycoon, he is celebrated for his outstanding contributions to national development, entrepreneurial excellence, exemplary leadership and philanthropic spirit across boundaries.”
