Speaking at laying of the foundation stone of the N23bn Sokoto State University, Sokoto, as part of his one-day official visit to the state, Jonathan said the universities were responsible for difficulties in providing spaces for students in Nigerian universities, the News Agency of Nigeria reports.
“That is why some of them over-admit and overcrowd the universities. That is why there is a problem with the quality of some of the graduates these days.
“Their level of education is not reflected in their character and behaviour, as education is an all–encompassing thing,” he said.
Jonathan commended the state government for embarking on the project and engaging a reputable firm to execute it. He expressed hope that “by the time I come back to Sokoto, let’s say in one year, I will see an appreciable level of work done here.”
The President said the ceremony was unique in spite of its simplicity. He also commended the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, and described him as a great leader.
He commiserated with the sultan over the floods which ravaged sections of Sokoto and Kebbi states, and said that the Federal Government has given and will continue to give major assistance to alleviate the situation.
In his remarks, the sultan commended the President for his style of leadership and presented him with a white horse as a royal gift on behalf of himself and the sultanate.
Sokoto State Governor Aliyu Wamakko had earlier told the President that the first phase of the university would cost N 8.9bn and that 30 per cent of the sum had been released to the contracting firm, Mcnamara Nig. Ltd .
Wamakko said the university would enable the state to provide quality university education to the large number of eligible youths in the state.
In Zamfara State, the President was conferred with the traditional title of Santuraki Talata Mafara by the Emir of Talata Mafara, Alhaji Muhammadu Barmo.
Thereafter, he inaugurated the 132/33 KVA transmission substation located in the community. Speaking at the event, Jonathan praised the efforts of the contractor, noting that government was committed to encouraging local expertise.
He stated that from next year, the Federal Government would set aside a percentage of contracts to be dedicated to local contractors. “This the only way we can improve capacity and grow our economy,” he said.
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