By Musa Wada.
In a momentous occasion that underscores Nigeria’s deepening commitment to expanding access to high-quality higher education, FortLugard University marked a key milestone with its official groundbreaking ceremony in Abuja on Friday, bringing to life the long-cherished dream of its founder, Elder Chief Ogwu James Onoja, SAN, a distinguished legal luminary from Kogi State.
The ceremony, held at the university’s permanent site in the Apo district of the Federal Capital Territory, was a powerful display of unity, vision, and national ambition. It drew not only stakeholders from the education sector but also dignitaries from across the legal profession, government, civil society, and business communities.
At the heart of this historic event is Ogwu James Onoja, SAN — a Senior Advocate of Nigeria recognized for his towering contributions to the legal profession, scholarship, and public life. Onoja has carved a distinguished legal career, authored seminal legal texts, and championed access to justice and rule of law in Nigeria. His commitment to excellence and national development over the years has earned him respect and admiration across the legal, academic, and business communities.
But beyond the courtroom, Onoja’s vision for national transformation has taken a bold new direction through FortLugard University. Named to evoke a legacy of resilience and intellectual pursuit, the institution aims to be a beacon of academic excellence — crafting not just graduates, but leaders equipped with the skills, values, and innovations required to thrive in the 21st century.
In his remarks at the ceremony, Onoja described the event not merely as a construction milestone, but as “a moment of vision, faith, and purpose,” symbolizing steady progress toward building a world-class university that will redefine academic excellence in Nigeria and Africa. He highlighted that the campus will be developed step by step with modern infrastructure and global standards in mind.
The groundbreaking ceremony itself was marked by the laying of foundation stones for the university’s Senate Building and the Faculty of Computer Sciences — two structures seen as symbolic of the institution’s dual commitment to leadership, governance, and future-focused education.
The ceremony gained even greater national prominence when the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, sent a high-level representative to underscore the Federal Government’s support for the initiative. The President was represented by the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Hon. Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo.
Minister Jisalo, speaking on behalf of the President, commended the bold decision to establish a world-class university in the FCT. He emphasized that FortLugard University will not only widen access to quality education but will also create significant employment opportunities and contribute meaningfully to national development. His remarks underscored the administration’s recognition of education as a fundamental pillar for economic and social transformation.
The Minister further urged the host community and stakeholders to safeguard the institution and its personnel, highlighting the immense long-term benefits that a thriving academic environment would yield for both local residents and the nation at large.
FortLugard University is positioned not just as a national institution but as a global intellectual powerhouse — aspiring to attract the best minds, foster research excellence, and build partnerships that transcend borders. Its mission statement emphasizes the cultivation of leaders with deep intellectual capacity, innovative spirit, and strong ethical foundations.
Onoja has articulated a vision where the university becomes a crucible for scientific inquiry, humanities research, and entrepreneurial discovery. The emphasis on computer sciences and technology reflects an understanding that the future of education and economic competitiveness hinges on equipping students with skills relevant to the digital age.
He stressed that while the groundbreaking marks early structural progress, the core work lies in delivering world-class academic programs, nurturing innovators, and establishing a culture of research and service that will drive societal advancement.
Beyond its academic mission, FortLugard University holds the promise of transforming its immediate environment and the broader Nigerian educational landscape. Its establishment in Abuja — the nation’s capital — underscores the strategic importance of placing educational opportunities at the heart of national life. The institution is expected to spur economic activity, attract scholars and students from across Nigeria and beyond, and serve as a hub for cultural and intellectual exchange.
Additionally, by providing employment opportunities and fostering community engagement, the university is poised to generate meaningful socio-economic benefits for the FCT’s host communities.
Looking Ahead
As construction progresses on the Senate Building and Faculty of Computer Sciences, anticipation continues to build around further academic programs and facilities that will be introduced in phases. FortLugard University is set to open new pathways for Nigerian youth, particularly those seeking world-class education at home. Its foundational values — excellence, integrity, innovation, and service — align with broader national aspirations for growth, competitiveness, and sustainable development.
In the words of its founder, Ogwu James Onoja, SAN, the groundbreaking represents seeds of endless possibilities — a beginning that, with perseverance and collective support, will grow into an enduring legacy of education, empowerment, and national greatness.
– Musa Wada is the Special Assistant, Media and Publicity to the Minister of Special Duties and Inter Governmental Affairs.
