As FUBK Graduates 3,373 Students, Gov Idris Reaffirms Commitment To Youth Empowerment And Education

Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has described the maiden convocation of the Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) as a milestone in the lives of its graduates.

He congratulated the students, acknowledging their hard work, dedication, and perseverance in reaching this significant point in their academic journey.

The Governor delivered this address during the maiden combined convocation ceremony for the award of Degrees and the presentation of prizes, held on Saturday at FUBK’s permanent site in Kalgo. The maiden event involved the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th graduands of the institution.

“As a Governor and classroom teacher, I am committed to supporting education and empowering our youth to realize their full potential. Our administration’s unwavering commitment to the enhancement and growth of education is evident in our contributions to this convocation and our ongoing support for the State University, Aliero,” Governor Idris stated.

He emphasized that education was key to progress, urging the graduates to pursue their goals, embrace challenges, and remain focused on their aspirations. The Governor also expressed appreciation to the parents and staff of FUBK for guiding the students through their academic journey, calling on all to use education as a tool for promoting peace and development in society.

As part of his support for the institution, Governor Idris donated a 36-seater bus for student transportation.

In his speech, the Visitor of the university and President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized the need for Nigerian universities to focus on demand-driven research that supports industrial growth and national development.

He highlighted the government’s efforts to address infrastructure deficits and increase budgetary allocations to the education sector.

The Chancellor of FUBK, Eze, Dr. Cletus Ikechukwu Ilomuanya, CON, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to participating in the formulation and implementation of government policies aligned with the “Renewed Hope” agenda of President Tinubu’s administration. He also congratulated the graduates and recipients of honorary degrees, commending former President Goodluck Jonathan for establishing FUBK in 2013.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Alhaji Ali Abubakar Jatau, expressed appreciation for the presence of President Tinubu’s representative and Governor Idris at the convocation, acknowledging the support provided by the federal government as well as Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states.

The Vice Chancellor of FUBK, Professor Muhammad Zaiyanu Umar said that the university, established in 2013, commenced academic activities during the 2014/2015 academic session with two faculties.

“Today, the university boasts five faculties and a College of Health Sciences”, he added. He also disclosed that the convocation covered five academic sessions, graduating a total of 3,373 students.

Professor Umar also highlighted challenges faced by the university, including the lack of perimeter fencing leading to encroachments, theft of cables and wires, inadequate transportation, and an excessive hike in electricity tariffs from KEDCO, which resulted in power cuts.

The event also featured the presentation of prizes to outstanding graduates and the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees on prominent Nigerians, including former Governor Saidu Nasamu Dakingari, Dr. Muhammad Indimi, Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh, and Ambassador Abubakar Muhammad Sani, OON.

Credit: Yahaya Sarki,
Special Adviser, Media and Publicity,
Kebbi State Governor.