ASUU Opposes Alleged Plan To Take Over FUTMinna Bosso Campus

The Academic Staff Union of Universities at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, has accused the Niger State Government of trying to take over the institution’s Bosso Campus, warning that such a move would be unlawful and disruptive.

In a statement issued on Monday, ASUU-FUTMinna chairman Prof. Luqman Kunle Oyewobi said the union views the reported attempt as an attack on the university’s academic space. He said the Bosso Campus is central to teaching, research and day-to-day learning, and should not be treated as land available for political use.

Oyewobi said the campus has belonged to FUTMinna since 1983, when the Federal Government completed payment to the Niger State Government for the property. On that basis, he argued that ownership had long been settled and that any new takeover effort would undermine established agreements.

The union leader said interference with the campus could cause major setbacks to staff and students, including disruption of lectures, laboratory work and research schedules. He added that uncertainty over facilities could also affect planning and ongoing academic programmes.

ASUU-FUTMinna also urged the state government to refrain from actions that could trigger conflict with the university community. According to the statement, the union expects public authorities to protect education infrastructure rather than place it under pressure.

Oyewobi said the union remains committed to defending the institution’s assets through lawful means. He called for dialogue and respect for documented ownership records, stressing that universities need stability to deliver quality outcomes for students and society.

The dispute has heightened concern among stakeholders in Niger State’s education sector, as the Bosso Campus serves as a key part of FUTMinna’s operations. ASUU said it would continue to monitor developments closely and keep members informed on any further steps.

While the state government’s position was not contained in the union’s statement, ASUU maintained that preserving the campus for academic use is in the wider public interest. The union said protecting existing university infrastructure is essential for sustaining learning and research in the state.