Prominent Nigerians including a former Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Ejembi Eko (Rtd.), and the Director of Reform Coordination and Service Delivery at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Dr. Jumai Amodu, have pledged full support toward the successful establishment of the proposed Fortlugard University, Abuja.
The assurances were made on Friday during the groundbreaking ceremony of the institution, which took place in the Apo area of the Federal Capital Territory. The event attracted dignitaries from the legal community, academia, traditional institutions, and the public service.
Delivering his goodwill message, Justice Eko described the project as “a commendable and visionary intervention” in Nigeria’s education sector. According to him, the founder of the university, Dr. James Ogwu Onoja, SAN, has always demonstrated an uncommon passion for knowledge, mentorship, and intellectual development.
He 
stated that he was not surprised that Dr. Onoja decided to invest in education, stressing that the senior advocate has consistently shown commitment to raising young lawyers and improving legal scholarship over the years. “He has always been a man driven by an appetite for learning and a desire to uplift others,” the retired jurist said.
Justice Eko further pledged to use his network, influence, and professional contacts to support the full realization of Fortlugard University. “This is a project I wholeheartedly stand behind. Whatever contacts, connections, or goodwill I can offer to expand its reach, Dr. Onoja can count on me,” he affirmed.
He added that the establishment of a new, research-centered university in Abuja could become a turning point for tertiary education in Nigeria, if sustained with vision and integrity. According to him, institutions like Fortlugard University have the potential to “reshape national thinking and produce leaders equipped for modern challenges.”
On her part, Dr. Jumai Amodu, a senior public service administrator and former schoolmate of Dr. Onoja, praised the commitment and courage behind the initiative. She recalled their days together at Ofante Community Secondary School, Ogugu, describing Dr. Onoja as a brilliant, focused, and determined student even in his youth.
“His dedication to education did not start today,” she said. “Back then, he was always ahead—always pushing himself and others to aim higher. That spirit has not left him.” She expressed strong confidence that the same resilience and discipline will drive the success of Fortlugard University.
Dr. Amodu emphasized that although Dr. Onoja came from a humble background, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and a deep commitment to excellence. She noted that such personal history makes his current educational pursuit even more inspiring.
She assured the founder of her unwavering support, both locally and internationally, saying: “This dream will come to pass. You have shown courage, you have shown vision, and you have shown readiness. Count on me to stand with you as Fortlugard University rises.”
The event closed with applause for the founder’s determination to contribute meaningfully to the educational development of Nigeria. Several other dignitaries in attendance also expressed optimism that the university—when fully operational—would become a hub for research, innovation, and leadership training.
The groundbreaking ceremony was described by many as a historic step toward expanding access to quality tertiary education in Nigeria, with stakeholders reaffirming their belief that Fortlugard University is set to become a model of excellence in academics and administration.
