By Lydia Legbo
The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA), Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, on Thursday, September 18, 2025, led a delegation of the University on a working visit to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Bida, Niger State. The visit was part of preparations for the forthcoming National Universities Commission (NUC) resource verification exercise for the University’s newly established College of Medical Sciences and Health Technology.
The delegation was warmly received by the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of FMC Bida, Dr. Usman Abubakar, and other members of the hospital’s management team.
Speaking during the visit, Prof. Kuta explained that the purpose was to ensure that facilities and manpower at the Centre were ready for the NUC verification team, which is expected on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
“This visit is a follow-up to the earlier checklist sent by the NUC to make sure that everything is in place for a smooth and successful verification exercise,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor highlighted FUT, Minna’s commitment to the successful take off of the College, noting that much had been achieved through the support of the Federal Government and interventions from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).
“For a start, we have been putting finishing touches to facilities on the University’s side, but the major work lies here at the Medical Centre. Medical training is a serious business because life is delicate, and it is here that students will be exposed to the most critical aspect of their training. Adequate provision has to be made,” he stressed.
Prof. Kuta further remarked that his administration had introduced over twenty new programmes since assuming office, but the College of Medical Sciences stands out as one of the most ambitious with overwhelming supports.
“Once the verification is successful, the Executive Secretary of NUC has assured us of a prompt release of the results, after which we will approach JAMB to admit the first set of medical students. With the cooperation we are receiving from FMC Bida, I am confident that FUT, Minna will start on a solid foundation,” he added.
He expressed gratitude to the CMD and his team for their cooperation, noting: “We cannot achieve this without your absolute support. The encouragement and assistance we have enjoyed so far have been overwhelming, and we look forward to your continued partnership as we move towards this landmark achievement.”
Responding, the Chief Medical Director of FMC Bida, Dr. Usman Abubakar, assured the University of the Centre’s readiness and commitment to the exercise.
“We have carefully studied the NUC checklist, and I can assure you that FMC Bida is fully prepared. With the level of facilities and manpower available, we are confident that the verification will be smooth and successful,” he said.
Dr. Abubakar also emphasised that FMC Bida was aligned with national policy goals of increasing the number of health professionals in Nigeria.
“The Federal Government’s policy is clear, whatever will help to increase the number of health workers in this country is encouraged. Virtually everything that is required is available here, and our accreditation status is up to date. FUT, Minna can count on our continuous support,” he affirmed.
Photo Credit: Lekan Oshindare
