In a significant move to strengthen Nigeria’s higher education sector, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor James Olugbenga Aribisala, FNSE, FAEng as the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the newly established Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES) in Iyin-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
The appointment, which comes shortly after the federal government approved the institution in February 2025, sets the stage for the university’s ambitious focus on technology and environmental sciences, a crucial area for Nigeria’s economic and ecological advancement.
MEET THE NEW VICE-CHANCELLOR
Born and raised in Ekiti State, Professor James Olugbenga Aribisala, FNSE, FAEng is a highly accomplished Civil Engineer, researcher, and academic administrator with extensive experience in engineering, infrastructure development, and university leadership. A specialist in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering, he has made notable contributions to environmental impact assessment, wastewater treatment, and sustainable engineering solutions.
Prof. Aribisala holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering from the University of Ilorin and a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Benin, with part of his doctoral research conducted at Aalborg University, Denmark. He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, a registered member of COREN (Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria), and has played key roles in the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE). His leadership in academia and professional organizations has been instrumental in shaping engineering education and infrastructure development in Nigeria.
OTHER KEY APPOINTMENTS
Alongside Professor Aribisala, the president also unveiled the university’s key officials including: Senator Binta Masi Garba as the Pro-Chancellor, Mr. Oluwole Olalere Dada as the Registrar, Mrs. Adeniyi Rachael Ajayi as the Bursar and Prof. Isaac Oluwadare Busayo as the Librarian.
Additionally, the Governing Council includes Prof. Joseph Olurotimi Sanya, Mr. Efe Emefienin Emmanuel, Dr. Joyce Ogunyemi, and Alhaji Dahiru Abdullahi Ruma, who will oversee university policies and strategic direction.
The establishment of FUTES brings new opportunities for students, researchers, and the local economy. As the second federal university in Ekiti State, the institution is expected to attract investments, create jobs, and enhance the region’s status as an academic hub.
Community leaders in Iyin-Ekiti have welcomed the development, expressing optimism that the university will drive technological innovations and environmental sustainability initiatives in Nigeria.
With academic activities expected to commence in September 2025, FUTES is set to become a major player in Nigeria’s tertiary education system. As anticipation builds, all eyes are on Professor Aribisala and his team to deliver on the promise of a world-class institution dedicated to science, technology, and environmental advancement.
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