Abuja: No fewer than 17,200 students graduated at the combined convocation ceremony of the University of Abuja, now Yakubu Gowon University. Three prominent Nigerians also received honorary doctorate degrees at the event.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Hakeem Fawehinmi, stated at the ceremony in Abuja that the university was undergoing transformation through infrastructure expansion, staff development, and strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing research capabilities and improving learning outcomes. Fawehinmi highlighted that the 29th convocation for the 2022/2023 session included 7,158 undergraduates, with 48 earning First Class degrees. The 30th convocation for the 2023/2024 session saw 5,466 undergraduates, with 29 obtaining First Class degrees. Additionally, 4,573 postgraduate students graduated between March 2024 and March 2026.
Fawehinmi urged the graduates to maintain integrity, discipline, and selflessness, emphasizing that their character would play a crucial role in their success beyond academic achievements. He advised them to uphold the university’s reputation. The administration has focused on stabilizing academic activities, enhancing governance, and improving staff and student welfare since December. Completed projects include a new senate chamber complex and a research laboratory building, while ongoing projects involve additional hostels and a Centre of Excellence in Public Leadership and Governance.
Earlier, Pro-Chancellor Sen. Olanrewaju Tejuoso emphasized the need for stronger private sector collaboration to tackle infrastructure challenges, particularly in student accommodation, due to increasing enrolment. He also warned against land encroachment, asserting that management would protect university property.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, reiterated the government’s commitment to bolstering the education sector through investment, improved infrastructure, and enhanced staff welfare. Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Abel Enitan, he described education as essential for building prosperous societies and driving innovation. Alausa mentioned that government efforts to address leadership challenges at the university aim to restore peace and academic progress.
Among the honorary awardees, Paul Odili committed to supporting infrastructure development and addressing the institution’s challenges. He promised collaboration with the Governing Council and university management to tackle these issues within two years.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the convocation highlighted ongoing reforms, infrastructure expansion, and collaboration with stakeholders. Other honorary awardees included Prof. Yusuf Ali (SAN) and Emmanuel Iza.