By Kamal Hammajo, Gombe | August 29, 2025
The newly confirmed Vice Chancellor of Gombe State University (GSU), Professor Sani Ahmed Yauta, has announced ambitious plans to transform the institution, including the creation of a Faculty of Engineering to provide manpower for the Kolmani Oil and Gas Project, the expansion of agricultural education, and the construction of new lecture halls to accommodate thousands of students.
Professor Yauta, whose appointment was recently confirmed by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, said the University is committed to expanding opportunities for young people. “We are making every effort to expand access for our teeming youth to gain admission and pursue their studies,” he told journalists.
Speaking in his office, the Vice Chancellor disclosed that the University had secured ₦4 billion for infrastructure projects. “Out of 18 universities selected, we were fortunate to secure this ₦4 billion, and we will use it to build more large lecture halls,” he explained.
On campus expansion, he commended Governor Inuwa Yahaya for his unwavering support. “Governor Inuwa Yahaya has graciously approved the establishment of another campus in Dukku, which now houses our Faculty of Environmental Sciences. As I speak to you, students there have successfully completed their first semester,” he said.
According to him, the Governor’s commitment to agriculture also led to the approval of another campus. “Because of his passion for agriculture, Governor Inuwa Yahaya also approved the establishment of another campus for the Faculty of Agriculture. As you know, agriculture is the driving force of the economy, and more people are now keying into it. With this campus, in Malam Sidi, our aim is to train students in modern mechanized agriculture,” Yauta added.
Looking ahead, the Vice Chancellor revealed that the University would soon establish a Faculty of Engineering with petroleum resource technology courses to directly serve the Kolmani Oil and Gas Project, situated on the Gombe-Bauchi boundary.
He also disclosed an international partnership aimed at strengthening the institution. “At present, we are collaborating with Michigan University in the United States to help us develop and strengthen the faculty,” he said, noting that the collaboration would improve agricultural education to meet modern demands.
Reflecting on the realities of running a Public University, Professor Yauta pointed to funding challenges. “Managing a university requires adequate resources, both human and material. One of the major challenges we face is inadequate funding. The university consumes a lot of resources. For instance, if I told you how much paper we use within a semester, you would be surprised. The same goes for electricity bills and waste evacuation costs,” he explained.
He continued: “There are also hidden expenditures many people are not aware of. It is only when one is in this position that the weight of these responsibilities becomes clear. People often assume the university has enough resources, but the reality is different. Even the flowers you see around the campus require a huge monthly budget for their maintenance.”
Professor Yauta concluded with appreciation: “We sincerely appreciate the support of His Excellency Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, who contributed generously to the development of Gombe State University.”
Professor Sani Ahmed Yauta joined Gombe State University in 2006 as a Graduate Assistant. He rose steadily through the ranks and was appointed Acting Vice Chancellor in November 2024 before his confirmation as substantive Vice Chancellor.
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