The newly established Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES), Iyin Ekiti, is set to admit its first batch of students in October 2025, beginning with four pioneer faculties.
According to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Gbenga Aribisala, the institution will kick off academic programmes in:
Engineering
Computer Science
Natural and Applied Sciences
Environmental Sciences
Speaking at a reception in Ifaki Ekiti, organised by his former classmates from the 1979 set of Ifaki Grammar School, Aribisala said FUTES is designed to run a fully residential system, with a vision to nurture disciplined graduates and innovative leaders.
> “We are laying the foundation for academic excellence. Our mission is to produce 21st-century leaders who can tackle Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, especially unemployment,” he said.
“Not About Money, But About Nation-Building”
Prof. Aribisala stressed that FUTES aims to be Africa’s leading problem-solving university, adding that the institution’s focus will be on character, learning, and service to the nation.
> “We are committed to building a human-centred institution. This is not about making money, but about making Nigeria great,” he declared.
He noted that recruitment adverts for staff would soon be published in national dailies and on the university’s website, warning prospective applicants against falling victim to fraudulent agents.
The Vice Chancellor disclosed that the National Universities Commission (NUC) had already conducted a resource verification exercise and expressed satisfaction with some of the facilities on ground.
Call for Support
Aribisala appealed for more public-private support, particularly in the construction of hostels and other essential facilities.
> “As I speak, we do not have enough funds. Government alone cannot do everything. That is why we are reaching out to well-meaning individuals and organisations to invest in hostels, scholarships, and infrastructure,” he explained.
He promised that benefactors would be recognised through building naming rights and other legacy opportunities.
Community Pride and Governance
The Ifaki Grammar School Old Students Association (IGSOSA 1979 Set), which hosted the event, expressed pride in Aribisala’s leadership. Coordinator Mr. Olajide Familoye said, “This is our collective success. We are confident he will lay a strong foundation that will place FUTES on the world map.”
FUTES Registrar, Mr. Oluwole Dada, also assured the university community that the institution is fully prepared to meet expectations in academic excellence and service delivery.
It will be recalled that in March, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Senator Binta Garba as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairperson of the Governing Council of FUTES.
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