By James Isaac
Senator Konbowel Benson Friday, representing Bayelsa Central, has called for the establishment of a Federal University of Science and Technology in Korokorosei, Bayelsa State, as a means to address developmental gaps and curb militancy in the region.
The Senator made his case on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, during the second reading of “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Establishment of the Federal University of Science and Technology, Korokorosei, Bayelsa State” in the Senate.
He argued that despite Bayelsa State’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s economic sustenance, it remains underrepresented and underdeveloped, particularly in education. Highlighting the challenges faced by the region in accessing secondary and higher education, Senator Konbowel noted that the neglect dates back to pre- and post-independence periods.
“The wealth of Nigeria is buried in the creeks, and while the government has not found it difficult to lay pipelines to convey crude oil, it has struggled to build roads and schools to support development,” he remarked.
The Senator emphasized that establishing the university would not only provide educational opportunities but also engage the youth in productive activities, reducing the allure of militancy in Southern Ijaw and its environs.
He also pointed out that Korokorosei and the surrounding areas already possessed some infrastructure inherited from missionaries and past administrations, including boarding facilities for students, which would support the university’s operations.
