By Divine Sam
Traditional rulers from 11 states across Nigeria have appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant swift assent to the Federal University of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology, Jos (Establishment) Bill, 2025, describing the proposed institution as a transformative project for the nation’s healthcare and educational sectors.
The appeal was made during a courtesy visit to the Federal College of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology (FCMLT), Jos, by the Council of Traditional Rulers and Title Holders of the JAMKAB Member-States, led by its President and Founder, Chief Butswat Gidado Manasseh.
Speaking during the visit on Tuesday, Chief Manasseh said the establishment of the university would serve as a “covenant of life, hope, and greatness” for Nigerian youths while positioning Plateau State as a leading destination for medical science education and research.
“We humbly and urgently appeal to Mr. President to grant assent without delay so that the dreams of our people may be realized,” he said.
According to him, the JAMKAB Peace and Empowerment Initiative, which comprises member-states including Bauchi, Plateau, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa, the FCT, Yobe, Katsina, Rivers, Gombe, and Kaduna, has continued to champion peace-building through educational support, free medical outreaches, youth empowerment initiatives, and community development projects.
Responding, the Provost of FCMLT Jos, Prof. Sunday Nkereuwem Etukudoh, welcomed the delegation’s support and reaffirmed the institution’s readiness to transition into a world-class university if the bill receives presidential assent.
“We are prepared to build a university that will make Plateau proud, make Nigeria proud, and make the traditional institution proud,” Prof. Etukudoh stated.
The Provost commended Hon. Daniel Asama Ango, Member representing Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency, for sponsoring the bill, describing him as “the architect of this dream” whose efforts have inspired hope among stakeholders.
He also lauded the National Assembly under Senate President Godswill Akpabio for the successful passage of the bill and acknowledged the Federal Ministry of Health for its technical guidance and policy support throughout the legislative process.
During the visit, the JAMKAB delegation presented two requests to the College management, including support for the provision of a bus to facilitate the organization’s activities across its 11 member-states and consideration for qualified JAMKAB youths in admissions and employment opportunities at the proposed university.
Prof. Etukudoh assured the delegation that the request for mobility support would be presented to relevant partners, while stressing that admissions and employment at the university would be guided by merit, equity, and the federal character principle.
“The qualified sons and daughters of JAMKAB and our host communities will find favor here. For in empowering our youths, we empower peace itself,” he added.
He further proposed a strategic partnership between FCMLT Jos and JAMKAB in the areas of community health outreaches, peace-through-health initiatives, and mentorship programs for students across member-states.
The event concluded with prayers for Nigeria, Plateau State, and the Federal College of Medical Laboratory Science and Technology, Jos.
The royal visit was attended by traditional rulers, members of the College management, staff, and students.
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