D.M Long’gul writes

Rt. Hon. Yusuf Gagdi’s pivotal involvement in transforming the Federal College of Education (FCE) Pankshin into the Federal University of Education Pankshin (FUEP) marks an extraordinary achievement in the advancement of education within Plateau State and across Nigeria. As the visionary sponsor of this crucial bill, Gagdi, an esteemed alumnus of FCE Pankshin, sought to elevate the institution to university status to effectively tackle the critical shortage of qualified educators plaguing our nation. The creation of FUEP now a reality will significantly enhance teacher education, raise academic standards, and firmly establish Plateau State as a premier hub of learning in North Central Nigeria. This groundbreaking initiative, which received enthusiastic support from local leaders and the college community, highlights Gagdi’s unwavering dedication to improving educational infrastructure in his constituency. Furthermore, this initiative is a vital component of Gagdi’s most ambitious vision for elevating the quality of life in Pankshin, Kanke, and Kanam LGAs through a range of transformative developmental projects, including vital road construction and impactful community empowerment initiatives.

photo credit: Lawuna Yilwatda. RT. HON Gagdi Officially presenting the Bill establishing the Federal University of Education Pankshin to the former Provost College of Education Pankshin, Dr. Cirfat.

During the event celebrating the official launch of the University, the Rt. Hon Dr. Yusuf Gagdi passionately asserted that as a dedicated legislator serving the public, projects must unquestionably be established for the welfare of the community; thus, despite facing electoral defeats in Pankshin LGA on two occasions, he firmly believes that Pankshin is essential to both Plateau Central and the entire Plateau state. The member also boldly revealed a remarkable 10-billion-naira take-off grant that President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has generously provided, along with the immediate hiring of 161 staff members to effectively address the staffing shortfall. While the Member earnestly urges that politicians should never jeopardize the integrity of the institution due to their personal connections, it is equally important to commend the Rt. Hon Yusuf Gagdi for bravely facing the challenges ahead.

          The vivid metaphor “storming the weather” beautifully captures Rt. Hon. Yusuf Gagdi’s tenacious quest to bring the Federal University of Education, Pankshin (FUEP) to life. Just like one must bravely confront fierce storms, Gagdi adeptly maneuvered through considerable political and legislative obstacles to realize this ambition. His unwavering commitment to the project sparked with his initiative to sponsor a bill aimed at transforming the Federal College of Education (FCE) Pankshin into a university, a vital step to meet Nigeria’s escalating demand for adept educators. Gagdi encountered the usual challenges linked to advancing such monumental legislation, yet through steadfast determination—much like enduring a tempest—he triumphed in steering the bill through both the House of Representatives and Senate, ultimately securing the presidential nod. His achievement is undeniably a shared triumph, grounded in the trust of his constituents. This endeavor is part of Gagdi’s wider influence on his community, where his myriad initiatives exemplify his dedication to progress. His knack for “storming the weather” amid these projects highlights his leadership and tenacity in confronting both “political critics and skeptics,” as his recollections with Gagdi reveal that the former Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, initially posed a significant challenge to this initiative by dismissing the proposal before the President Mohammadu Buhari; however, despite the presidential endorsement, local storms intertwined with regional dynamics sought to thwart this noble endeavor. Nevertheless, joy reigns in Plateau as Pankshin shines brightly for all the right reasons once more, thanks to Gagdi’s relentless “storming the weather,” heralding the delightful news that the Federal College of Education Pankshin now stands as a degree-awarding institution, endowed with all rights and privileges. You’ve accomplished remarkable feats, D-10 now ascends to even greater heights, for in God you place your trust.

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“Storming the weather” Gagdi & the University of Education Pankshin project