The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Education, Pankshin (FUEP), Prof. Noel Nenman Wannang, has congratulated former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), on his 92nd birthday, acknowledging his administration’s contribution to the development of teacher education in Nigeria.
Prof. Wannang conveyed the congratulatory message on behalf of the University’s Governing Council, Management, staff and students, describing the milestone as an opportunity to recognise Gowon’s legacy in the country’s educational development.
According to a statement signed by the Vice-Chancellor, FUEP traces its Institutional origins to the establishment of Federal Advanced Teachers Colleges (FATCs), which formed part of efforts to address the shortage of qualified teachers in Nigeria during Gowon’s tenure as Head of State from 1966 to 1975.
The statement noted that the institution had evolved over the years from a Federal Advanced Teachers College to a Federal College of Education before its eventual upgrade to a Federal University of Education.
It added that the expansion of teacher education during the period laid a foundation for training generations of teachers who have contributed to Nigeria’s human capital development.
“Your decision to invest massively in teacher education at a critical time in our nation’s history laid a solid foundation for the development of education in Nigeria,” the statement said.
The Vice-Chancellor further noted that the University community identifies with the former Head of State as he celebrates his birthday, acknowledging the enduring significance of the policies that contributed to the growth of teacher-training institutions across the country.
Prof. Wannang also highlighted Gowon’s association with national unity, peace and development, describing his legacy of patriotism and service to the country as a source of inspiration.
He reaffirmed the university community’s appreciation for the historical role of teacher education in Nigeria’s development and extended birthday wishes to the former Head of State.
“Once again, congratulations to Gen. Yakubu Gowon at 92 from the entire Governing Council, Management, staff and students of the Federal University of Education, Pankshin,” the statement concluded.
