Bauchi Governor Warns Against Social Vices At Varsity

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU) in its journey towards becoming a centre of excellence, an institution that is academically sound, morally upright, globally competitive and deeply rooted in societal values.

The governor made this known during the university’s combined 8th, 9th and 10th convocation ceremony held yesterday at its main campus in Gadau, where 12,256 students graduated across three academic sessions, covering both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

He emphasised that infrastructure alone does not build a great university, noting that excellence is driven by values, discipline, and strict academic standards.

According to him, SAZU and other higher institutions must remain committed to maintaining entry requirements, promoting research and innovation, encouraging publications, and building partnerships with national and international institutions, while also shaping character alongside knowledge.

Describing education as the cornerstone of his administration’s vision, the governor assured that the state government would continue to invest in knowledge, innovation, and human capital development for societal progress.

He noted that the institution had grown into a beacon of learning and intellectual development, not only for Bauchi State but for Nigeria at large.

Bala Mohammed outlined key interventions in the higher education sector, including the provision of classrooms, lecture theatres, student hostels, laboratories, ICT centres, and staff quarters across tertiary institutions in the state.

He further explained that reforms introduced by his administration, such as improved funding, increased capacity support, and policies promoting financial stability and institutional independence have strengthened the university system.

He added that the consolidation of student administrative fees has improved access to higher education, while regular payment of scholarships and timely salaries for academic and non-academic staff have enhanced stability.

The Governor also disclosed that disputes between unions and management have been resolved, ensuring a stable academic calendar, while security within and around the university has been strengthened.

He added that significant progress has been made in infrastructure development, including internal road construction and rehabilitation.

He revealed that the state is pursuing long-term initiatives to strengthen research infrastructure, including plans to establish a College of Medical Sciences and deepen partnerships with institutions such as TETFund and NNPC.

Addressing the graduating students, the Governor urged them to be resilient and innovative, noting that the world needs their ideas, energy, determination, and courage.

He commended the university’s governing council, management, staff, and students for their dedication and contributions to the institution’s growth.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to education, he described it as the most powerful tool for societal transformation, noting that over 15 percent of the state’s annual budget has consistently been allocated to the sector.

The Governor also warned against social vices within the university system, stressing that drug abuse and sexual harassment would not be tolerated.

“Our universities must be safe spaces for learning, dignity, and growth, not centres of fear or intimidation,” he warned.

He described the convocation as a moment of reflection, achievement, and renewed commitment to the transformative power of education.

A breakdown of the graduates during university’s second convocation shows that 11,781 were undergraduates, while 443 were postgraduate students. The university also produced 215 First Class graduates, reflecting its growing academic standards.

Also speaking, the Chancellor of the university and Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, expressed satisfaction with the institution’s progress and urged graduates to be worthy ambassadors.

In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Fatima Tahir, said the university has recorded significant progress, including the accreditation of several programmes by the National Universities Commission.

She commended the state government for sustained support, particularly in infrastructure and funding, which has enhanced teaching, learning, and research.

Similarly, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Gambo Laraba Abdullahi, described the convocation as a reflection of the government’s commitment to education and praised development partners for their contributions.