The newly appointed Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, now renamed Yakubu Gowon University, Prof. Matthew Adamu, has officially assumed office with a pledge to consolidate recent gains and reposition the institution as Nigeria’s foremost centre of unity.
Speaking during a brief handover ceremony in Abuja on Monday, Prof. Adamu commended his predecessor, Prof. Patricia Lar, for steering the university through a challenging six-month period.
“At the time you came in six months ago, this university was in the news for all the wrong reasons, but you have worked tirelessly to change that,” he said, promising to work with all stakeholders to sustain progress. “When visitors come to this country and want to see a university, this should be the first they visit.”
Prof. Adamu said his focus would be on strengthening academic standards, improving infrastructure, and fostering harmony among staff and students. He emphasised the importance of collective effort in achieving the institution’s vision.
Earlier, Prof. Lar thanked the Federal Government, the Minister of Education, and the Governing Council for the opportunity to serve. She cited efforts made to address staff welfare, resolve union disputes, and prepare for upcoming accreditation exercises.
“It was not an easy task leading this institution with 17 faculties and several units, but I had the support of great men and women who stood by me,” she said, adding, “I want to apologise to anyone who may have been hurt by decisions I took. It was never intentional, but for the good of the university.”
