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Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, is facing significant financial challenges, including a costly legal battle and the garnishment of over N2.5 billion from it’s account with the Central Bank. 

According to Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kabir Bala, this has severely impacted the university’s operations, particularly in areas such as sanitation, electricity, and other utilities.

The garnished account contained crucial third-party funds, including local and foreign research grants, TETFUND projects, and funds for foreign scholars. Bala emphasized the need for greater collaboration among stakeholders to find innovative solutions for the university’s financial woes.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Alhaji Mahmud Yayale-Ahmed, highlighted the broader challenges facing Nigerian universities, including funding, governance, and management. He advocated for financial independence and minimal bureaucratic interference to ensure universities remain hubs for intellectual discourse and innovation.

Meanwhile, Chancellor Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, urged the 21,952 graduands celebrated at the 44th convocation ceremony to leverage the opportunities of the 21st century’s digital and social revolution. He emphasized the importance of being adaptable and nimble in the face of rapid technological change.

The convocation ceremony marked a significant milestone for ABU, with 5,756 postgraduate degrees and 16,196 bachelor’s degrees awarded for the 2023/24 academic session.

As the university moves forward, Vice-Chancellor Bala emphasized the need for collective effort to address the challenges facing the institution. He stated, “We must work together to find solutions to our financial challenges and ensure the continued growth and development of our university.”

The 44th convocation ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including the pro-chancellor, chancellor, and other members of the university’s governing council. The event marked a significant milestone for the university and its graduands, who are now poised to make their mark in various fields.

In his remarks, the Chancellor, Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, tasked the graduands to “be good ambassadors of this great institution and make us proud.” He also encouraged them to be innovative and entrepreneurial, leveraging the skills and knowledge acquired during their time at ABU.

As the graduands embark on their next journey, the university community remains committed to providing a supportive and enabling environment for learning and growth. Despite the challenges, ABU remains a beacon of academic excellence and a hub for intellectual discourse and innovation.

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