By Samson Pwomyeragow
Nasarawa State University, Keffi has said that Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura is to be conferred with Honorary Doctorate degree at its 6th convocation ceremony slated to take place on 28th March this year.
A statement from the University quoted the Vice Chancellor, Professor Suleiman Bala Mohammed saying that the immediate past Governor of the state was found worthy by the University based on his landmark achievements when he was the Governor of the state.
“The Council and Management of the University considered Senator Al-Makura worthy of this recognition because of his massive transformation in the education sector when he held sway as the State Governor between 2011 to 2019; and that as Senator of the Federal Republic Nigeria, Al-Makura is leaving no stone unturned to bring about the desired legislative turn around in the Solid Minerals sector.
“Senator Al-Makura has a very unique political engineering by defeating the incumbent in 2011, conducted the most free and fair LG elections in Nigeria, the only CPC Governor in Nigeria, and has ensured the political stability in Nasarawa by bringing in a worthy successor.
“Senator Al-Makura, as a visitor to the university, his contributions are unparalleled in terms of provision of basic infrastructures, and appointing reputable personalities as members of the University Council. Also that Senator Al-Makura met a rural state and transformed it into a city”, the statement read in parts.
The statement said the Chairman of the Council, Professor Adamu Baikie, after eulogising Senator Al-Makura for his outstanding contributions, presented the letter of nomination for the award to him.
In his acceptance speech, Senator Al-Makura thanked the University Authorities for deeming him worthy of the nomination.
He said that NSUK symbolised national unity and epitomised a collective desire to build a strong nation.
He also said that he is happy that the institution realises its important position in the educational salvation of our youth and the rejuvenation of our nation.
Senator Al-Makura also congratulated the Governing Council, Senate, Management and staff of the university for recording progress in achieving the objective for which it was set up.