By Mustapha Salisu
The Federal Government College Kano Old Students Association (FGCKOSA) has raised strong objections to a proposed concession of about 30 hectares of land within Federal Government College (FGC), Kano, describing the move as a threat to the institution’s legacy and Nigeria’s education system.
In a press statement issued on April 6, 2026 by its President Shoyinka Shodunke, the association called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene and halt the planned Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, which it alleged is aimed at converting part of the school’s land into a residential and commercial estate.
FGCKOSA expressed deep concern that the initiative would undermine the foundational vision of Unity Schools, which were established to promote national integration, academic excellence, and nation-building. The association warned that commercialising such educational assets reflects a shift away from long-term national development priorities.
The alumni body noted that, over the years, its members have collectively invested billions of naira in developing the college through infrastructure support and academic interventions without seeking ownership of any part of the school land. It added that a dedicated foundation has already been set up to further support the institution, with plans underway to raise ₦5 billion at its official launch in June 2026.
According to the statement, the proposed project amounts to a misuse of federally designated educational land for private commercial gain, stressing that the development would expose students to safety risks and disrupt the secure learning environment required for academic excellence.
FGCKOSA further argued that the land earmarked for the concession includes vital open spaces needed for recreation and future expansion, warning that any reduction in the school’s capacity would have lasting negative consequences. It questioned the rationale behind selecting FGC Kano land for such a project, noting that Kano State has vast alternative land resources suitable for real estate development.
The association also maintained that there is no clear benefit to the school in the proposed arrangement, alleging that the project appears to be structured primarily for private interests under the guise of a PPP.
While cautioning members of the public against investing in any property linked to the scheme due to ongoing disputes, the alumni vowed to pursue all legal means to overturn what it described as an illegal arrangement.
FGCKOSA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of the institution and called on the Federal Government to prioritise the preservation and strengthening of educational infrastructure across the country.
