The Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS) Alumni Association recently held its 7th National Convention, where it recognized the institution’s pioneer vice-chancellor, Prof. Shehu Galadanchi, and his successors with prestigious awards. The convention, which took place in Sokoto and was attended by alumni from across the country, also marked the election of new leaders for the association.
Among the distinguished awardees were Prof. Tijjani Bande, the Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations; Dr. Zayyanu Abdullahi, the Emir of Yauri; and Prof. Mahdi Adamu. Additionally, Prof. Abubakar Gwandu, Prof. Aminu Mika’ilu, Prof. Riskuwa Shehu, Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, and the current vice-chancellor, Prof. Lawal Bilbis, were honored for their remarkable contributions to the university.
Expressing his gratitude for the contributions of the lecturers and the university’s administration, Gov. Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State, an alumnus of UDUS, affirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to education and unwavering support for the university’s development.
“Education plays an unparalleled role in shaping a brighter future, and as such, our administration will persist in prioritizing education to achieve global standards. We will continue to maintain and strengthen the relationship with UDUS and the support provided by the Sokoto state government,” he stated.
Gov. Aliyu also sought the support and guidance of the alumni in effectively governing the state and encouraged them to continue their steadfast commitment to the growth and development of the university.
Nasiru Gawuna, the immediate past deputy governor of Kano State and former national president of the alumni association, emphasized the need for unity among members to advance the university’s development.
Prof. Nasiru Yawuri, the vice-chancellor of Al-Qalam University Katsina, echoed the sentiment, suggesting the appointment of alumni to the university’s governing board, similar to the practice with polytechnics. He emphasized the importance of giving back to the institution that nurtured them, stating, “Our alma mater remains our legacy and our pride.”
In his address, Prof. Lawal Bilbis, the incumbent vice-chancellor of UDUS, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the alumni for their unwavering support over the years.
The newly elected leaders of the association include Buhari Kware as national president, Amina Kolo as vice president I, Abdullahi Tafida as vice president II, and Mustapha Marafa as vice president III. The remaining leadership positions are Muhammad Hussain as Secretary General, Adamu Aliyu as Assistant Secretary I, Joseph Ode as Assistant Secretary II, Aishatu Gatawa as Treasurer, Shuaibu Lapai as Financial Secretary, Aliyu Wurma as legal adviser, Lawal Usman as assistant legal adviser, Olaitan Akande as publicity secretary I, Shamsudden Kazaure as publicity secretary II, Ismaila Yahaya as ex-officio I, and Maimuna Kadiri as ex-officio II.
NAN
