The Sardauna Memorial College Old Boys’ Association (SAMOBA) celebrated the contributions of five distinguished alumni during its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM), which was held at the college’s premises in Kaduna.
The event was also marked by the commissioning of a road project within the college, constructed by one of the honorees, Dr. Muhammad Mahmood Abubakar, a former Minister of Agriculture.
The celebrated alumni, honoured for their meritorious service to the nation, included Hon. Justice Musa Dattijo Muhammad (CFR, OFR), Justice Muhammad Lawal Bello, Dr Muhammad Mahmood Abubakar (CON), Major General Abba Mohammed Dikko (Rtd), and Deputy Comptroller General (DCG) Albashir Hamisu.
These individuals, who have significantly impacted their fields, were recognized as exemplary ambassadors of the college and the association.
Speaking on behalf of the honorees, Dr. Abubakar expressed deep appreciation for the recognition accorded to them by SAMOBA. He commended the association for its unwavering support and contributions to the college’s development, pledging to continue their efforts to further enhance the institution and contribute to national development.
In his welcome address, SAMOBA President, Maj. Gen. Abdulmalik Jibril (Rtd) traced the history of Sardauna Memorial College, emphasizing its transformation from the original “Sheik Sabbah College” in 1965 to its renaming in 1972 in honour of the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto.
He highlighted the significance of the AGM, noting that it was his first time presiding since his election.
Maj. Gen. Jibril outlined the various infrastructural projects executed by SAMOBA to enhance the college’s learning environment. These projects include the construction of an e-library, an ICT centre, a solar-powered borehole, and providing furniture and learning materials for students.
He described the newly commissioned road project as symbolising the association’s dedication to the college’s welfare and development.
The SAMOBA President, however, did not shy away from addressing the challenges facing the college. He noted the pressing issue of security due to the college’s porous nature, which has led to vandalism of facilities. Maj. Gen. Jibril also expressed concerns over the frequent use of the college’s facilities by external organizations, such as the National Teachers’ Institute (NTI), without any tangible benefits to the students or the college.
The event, which took place at the Air Marshal Muhammad Dikko Umar Hall within the college, was attended by a cross-section of SAMOBA members, dignitaries, and well-wishers. The ceremony concluded with the official commissioning of the road project, a lasting legacy of the association’s commitment to the college’s growth.
In closing, Maj. Gen. Jibril reiterated SAMOBA’s readiness to partner with the government to further uplift the college standard, urging concerted efforts to address the security and infrastructural challenges.
He affirmed that the association remains dedicated to promoting the academic excellence and overall well-being of Sardauna Memorial College.
