By: Oladele Ojodu
The Kaduna Chapter of the Middle Belt Forum has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah and Prof. Qurix Williams Barnabas on their well-earned appointments as Pro-Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor, respectively, of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia.
A statement signed by the Spokesman of the Chapter, Elder Solomon Danbaki said the their appointments by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reflects the outstanding leadership, dedication, and contributions of these eminent individuals to education and national progress.
The statement reads: “Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, the revered Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, is widely recognized as an intellectual, peace advocate, and champion of justice. His commitment to fairness, education, and nation-building has earned him deep respect across Nigeria and beyond. As Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, his visionary leadership is expected to steer the university toward academic excellence and innovation.
“Similarly, Prof. Qurix Williams Barnabas, a seasoned academic and administrator, brings extensive experience and expertise to his new role as Vice-Chancellor. With an illustrious career in academia and research, along with a passion for institutional development, he is well-positioned to guide the university in its mission to advance applied sciences and technological growth.
“The Middle Belt Forum, Kaduna Chapter, commends President Tinubu for these strategic appointments, which underscore his administration’s commitment to leveraging the vast human capital within the Middle Belt region.
“The Forum deeply appreciates the President’s vision and urges him to continue identifying and empowering capable leaders from the region to drive national development.
“The Middle Belt is home to an abundance of talented, visionary, and dedicated individuals who are ready to contribute to the nation’s progress,” the Forum stated.
“Bishop Kukah and Prof. Qurix stand as shining examples of the immense potential within our region.
Their appointments, the Forum added, are both a source of pride and a reminder of the need to harness the region’s rich human resources.
As the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, prepares to welcome its first set of students in September 2025, the Forum expressed confidence that, under the leadership of Bishop Kukah and Prof. Qurix, the institution will evolve into a hub for academic distinction, cutting-edge research, and innovation. Their appointments, it noted, align perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda and will help lay a strong foundation for the university’s long-term success.
Reaffirming its unwavering support, the Middle Belt Forum, Kaduna Chapter, pledged to stand by Bishop Kukah, Prof. Qurix, and the entire university community in their efforts to reshape the educational landscape of Southern Kaduna and Nigeria at large.
“We pray for God’s wisdom, guidance, and strength as they embark on this noble journey,” the Forum declared.
Once again, the Forum congratulated Bishop Kukah and Prof. Qurix on this remarkable milestone and expressed its profound appreciation to President Tinubu for his leadership and dedication to building a brighter future for Nigeria.
Middle-Belt Times 