Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Kano, Nigeria — The Federal Government College Kano Old Students Association (FGCKOSA) has formally petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alleging that federal authorities and a private firm are attempting to seize a large portion of the school’s campus without proper consultation. The matter has raised concerns among alumni and education advocates about the preservation of the school’s land and infrastructure.
The dispute centres on an agreement between the Federal Ministry of Education and Pluck Global Company Ltd., which involves clearance and construction on parts of FGC Kano’s campus. FGCKOSA claims the deal was finalised without prior notice to key stakeholders, including the alumni association, and lacks public scrutiny or proper stakeholder engagement.
According to the petition, a groundbreaking ceremony for the project had been scheduled, heightening alumni concern. The land in dispute includes sports fields, open spaces, and other facilities critical to the school’s operations and heritage. FGCKOSA argues that these areas should remain dedicated to educational purposes rather than being repurposed for commercial or external development.
The petition was copied to several federal officials and oversight bodies, including the Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Minister and Deputy Minister of Education, and anti-corruption agencies. The alumni group requested intervention to halt the development and review the agreement, stating that the process lacked transparency and may have violated established protocols for federal school property.
Shoyinka Shodunke, international president of FGCKOSA, stated that the alumni have invested significantly in FGC Kano over more than 30 years, funding infrastructure, support programmes, and scholarships without seeking financial returns. He said the potential seizure of land threatens the school’s heritage and undermines decades of alumni contributions.
Co-signatories to the petition include prominent alumni and community leaders such as Sheikh Bashir Umar Aliyu, Sheikh Rabiu Ishyaku Rabiu, Engr. Suleiman Adamu, Galadiman Kazure, Alhaji Nasser Ahmed Dan Darman Lokoja, and Abdul Samaad Rabiu, chairman of the BUA Group of Companies. Their support underscores the importance placed on protecting the school’s legacy and land.
FGCKOSA emphasised that the contested land should be preserved for the school’s educational mission. The association criticised the development proposal as primarily benefiting private interests rather than improving student facilities or academic programmes. The alumni warned that introducing commercial development on the campus could compromise student safety and the school environment.
The association also announced plans to raise funds through the FGCKOSA Foundation to support infrastructure projects at the school, demonstrating commitment to development while maintaining control over school assets.
The planned project inauguration reportedly included Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf as chief guest, alongside other officials. FGCKOSA criticised the lack of prior engagement, arguing that decisions on such projects must involve all relevant stakeholders to uphold good governance.
As of now, neither the Federal Ministry of Education nor Pluck Global Company Ltd. has publicly responded to the allegations. FGCKOSA has called on President Tinubu and relevant authorities to halt the project, review the agreement, and ensure future decisions regarding federal school land are transparent and inclusive.
The case highlights broader concerns about the management of public educational assets in Nigeria, especially for Unity Colleges like FGC Kano, which have historical significance and a mission to provide quality education. Alumni involvement is critical to preserving the schools’ heritage and ensuring resources are used for educational purposes.
FGCKOSA’s appeal underscores its determination to challenge perceived breaches of trust and ensure accountability. How the federal government responds will influence public confidence in the management of federal school resources and the use of public-private partnerships in Nigeria’s education sector.
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