The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has officially commenced the construction of the Abuja Leadership Centre of Excellence in Public Governance at the University of Abuja.
This significant milestone was marked with a foundation stone-laying ceremony led by TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Architect Sonny Echono, alongside the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, in Jahi, Abuja.
During the ceremony, Echono announced TETFund’s plans to commission approximately 467 projects across various tertiary institutions nationwide by October.
He emphasized the crucial role of leadership in national development, noting that the success or failure of nations heavily relies on the quality of leadership they produce.
Echono articulated that effective leadership hinges on the collective utilization of intellectual, human, and material resources, and that well-coordinated efforts can significantly propel national development goals.
“My hope is that this centre will become a key destination for every leader visiting our country. Its location in the nation’s capital is no coincidence,” he remarked.
He expressed confidence that the Abuja Leadership Centre would develop into a world-class facility, instrumental in nurturing leaders across all sectors of the economy and serving as a venue for globally recognized speeches, conventions, and declarations.
Echono called on the contractors responsible for the project to meet the challenges ahead, emphasizing the expectation for a facility of international standards. He assured that TETFund would provide the necessary funds not only for construction but also for high-quality furniture and equipment.
“The centre is envisioned as more than just a conference hall; it aims to be a premier leadership facility where global heads of state and their delegations will feel at home, on par with similar facilities worldwide,” he explained.
Echono commended the University of Abuja’s leadership for instilling stability and a clear direction within the institution, vowing continued collaboration to fulfill the vision set forth by its founders. He stressed that the university must continually promote national unity, integration, and excellence, particularly in leadership and governance.
Regarding the upcoming project commissions, he noted that while it may be impractical to commission every project directly, a selection of at least 50 iconic projects—two to three from each state—will be highlighted across the nation.
These projects are designed to showcase the positive impact of the current administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda on transforming Nigeria’s tertiary education landscape, and he invited media members to participate in the nationwide commissioning events.
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