A dispute has emerged over the future of Federal Government College (FGC) Kano, developing into a legal and policy confrontation between government authorities and the school’s alumni association. At the centre of the issue is a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement involving approximately 33 hectares—about 40 percent of the school’s land—allocated to Pluck Global Construction Company. Government officials have described the arrangement as a strategic effort to upgrade ageing infrastructure within the institution.
However, the school’s alumni association, FGCKOSA, has raised concerns about the structure and long-term implications of the agreement, particularly regarding its impact on the school’s assets and environment. The financial terms of the arrangement have also drawn scrutiny from the association. FGCKOSA estimates that the land involved could be valued at over N36 billion, while the proposed infrastructure development—including a sports complex and classroom renovations—has been put at about N8.5 billion.
The association has called for greater transparency in how these valuations were determined and whether the terms represent fair value for the institution. In addition, stakeholders have called for clarity on the decision-making process behind the project, including the roles of relevant authorities and the private developer. The Federal Ministry of Education and Pluck Global Construction Company have yet to publicly respond to these concerns.
For many stakeholders, the issue extends beyond financial considerations. Federal Government College Kano is part of Nigeria’s Unity Schools system, known for producing prominent figures across various sectors, including business, public service, and the arts. Alumni and other observers have emphasised the importance of preserving the integrity and long-term sustainability of such institutions.
Concerns have also been raised about the potential implications for student welfare and the learning environment. Stakeholders note that any development within the school’s premises should maintain adequate security, preserve space for recreation, and allow for future expansion in line with the institution’s needs. As an alternative, FGCKOSA has indicated plans to launch a N5 billion development fund aimed at supporting infrastructure improvements through alumni contributions, without altering the school’s land structure.
Meanwhile, the matter is now before the court. FGCKOSA has obtained an interim injunction from the Federal High Court in Kano, temporarily halting further action on the project pending the outcome of legal proceedings. The association has also called on the Federal Government to review the arrangement.