Overview and History of Abdulkadir Kure University (AKU), Minna

 
##Introduction
Abdulkadir Kure University (AKU), Minna, is one of the newest public universities in Nigeria, established in 2023. The institution reflects the vision of the Niger State Government to expand educational access, drive innovation, and support regional development. Named after one of the state’s most revered leaders, the university is strategically positioned to become a center of academic excellence and innovation.

##Motto, Official Website and Contact Information
Motto: Knowledge and Innovation for Sustainable Development

Website: https://akum.edu.ng

Email: info@akum.edu.ng

Location: Opposite Army Barracks, Paiko Road, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria

##History
Initially established as the Niger State University of Education, the institution was later upgraded to a full conventional university. This transition was aimed at broadening its academic offerings beyond education to include a wide range of disciplines such as engineering, health sciences, and management. The upgrade marked a significant milestone in the state’s educational advancement.

The university was named in honor of Engr. Abdulkadir Kure, a former Governor of Niger State who served from 1999 to 2007. During his tenure, he was widely respected for his developmental efforts, particularly in education and infrastructure. Naming the institution after him reflects his lasting legacy and commitment to educational growth in the region.

##Governance and Leadership

Vice Chancellor: Prof. Mohammed Aliyu Paiko
Professor Mohammed Aliyu Paiko serves as the Vice Chancellor of Abdulkadir Kure University. With years of academic and administrative experience, he is focused on building a world-class institution through research-driven initiatives, quality teaching, and international collaborations.

Pro-Chancellor: Prof. Mohammed Kuta Yahaya
The university's Pro-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Kuta Yahaya, contributes significantly to its strategic direction and governance. His role includes providing policy oversight, promoting academic integrity, and supporting the institution's mission and vision.

##Academic Structure
AKU operates with a broad academic structure spread across multiple faculties, each designed to cater to modern educational needs and development priorities. These include:

##Faculty of Computing and Data Analytics

Computer Science

Cyber Security

Software Engineering

Data Science


##Faculty of Sustainable Agriculture and Biotechnology

Agribusiness

Food Science and Technology

Horticulture and Landscape Management

Forest Resources and Wildlife Management

Family & Consumer Sciences

Biotechnology


##Faculty of Allied Health Sciences

Medical Laboratory Science

Nursing Science

Complementary Medicine

Public Health & Alternative Medicine

Environmental Health Science


##Faculty of Engineering & Innovation

Agricultural Engineering

Biomedical Engineering

Electrical Engineering (Bio-system and Electronics)

Mechatronics Engineering

Computer Engineering


##Faculty of Management Sciences

Business Information Technology

Entrepreneurship

Employment & Human Resources Management

Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Securities Management and Investment


##Faculty of Environmental Sciences

Estate Management

Environmental Management

Clothing & Textile Design

Urban and Regional Planning

Quantity Surveying


##Infrastructure and Development Initiatives

Financial Investments: The Niger State Government has made significant financial commitments to the development of Abdulkadir Kure University. A major infrastructure drive includes the construction of a Senate building and student hostels, backed by substantial funding. These efforts aim to create a conducive environment for both teaching and learning.

Student Support Programs: To support students financially and encourage enrollment, the university has introduced several incentives. These include a 50% reduction in tuition fees and scholarship grants for the first batch of admitted students. The scholarships were aimed at promoting academic pursuit while reducing financial burdens on families.


##Research and International Collaborations

Sub-National Research Institute: The university is poised to host Nigeria’s first sub-national research institute, focusing on science, agriculture, and innovation. This move aligns with the institution’s goal of becoming a research-intensive university that addresses regional and national challenges.

Partnership with Kent State University: Abdulkadir Kure University has initiated an international partnership with Kent State University in the United States. The collaboration covers a wide range of academic and research activities, including:

Dual degree programs, allowing students to study two years at AKU and two years abroad

Online education options

Joint programs in executive education, aviation, and technical skills development



##Engagement with NOTAP
The university is working closely with the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) to establish a technology transfer office and upgrade its laboratory facilities. These developments aim to promote research commercialization and innovation in science and technology.

##Commitment to Sustainability
Abdulkadir Kure University is Nigeria’s first green university, emphasizing environmental sustainability in its curriculum and campus operations. The university is designed to operate with a low carbon footprint while educating students on sustainable development and climate change mitigation.