Professor Ango Abdullahi has hailed the decision to rename the Bauchi State University after Sa’adu Zungur as symbolic.
The Abdullahi statement is contained in a press release signed by the Public Relations Officer of the university, Auwal Hassan, and made available to journalists.
The release stated that Ango Abdullahi who is also the Pro-Chancellor of the university was expressing the university governing council’s unanimous decision to adopt the new name in honor of the late Nigerian nationalist and politician, Sa’adu Zungur.
Our correspondent reports that the governor, Bala Mohammed, had earlier signed the bill to rename the institution as passed by the Bauchi State House of Assembly.
It read in parts, “The Bauchi State University Governing Council, expresses its full support for the renaming of the university, emphasising the importance of honouring the memory of individuals who have played pivotal roles in shaping the history and identity of the nation.’’
“Following the signing of the bill for the renaming of the university by His Excellency, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, the Executive Governor of Bauchi, the State University Governing Council, under the distinguished chairmanship of Professor Ango Abdullahi, has officially approved and implemented the decision to rename the university as Sa’adu Zungur University, SAZU as the new name of the institution.”
The release added that the “decision was reached by council members signifying a milestone in the university’s rich history.”
In the same vein, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Fatimah Tahir has insisted that the renaming of the Bauchi State University to Sa’adu Zungur University is a gesture that underscores the values of integrity, leadership, and excellence that the university upholds.
She said, “It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Sa’adu Zungur and his enduring impact on the educational landscape of Bauchi State.
Prof. Fatima added that, “The council is very much committed to ensuring a smooth transition process and implementing the necessary changes to reflect the new name of the university.
“The university community is encouraged to embrace this historic decision with pride and a renewed sense of purpose.
“The council therefore seeks to celebrate the contributions of Sa’adu Zungur and inspire the university community to uphold the values of integrity, leadership, and service that he exemplified.”
According to her, “the decision to rename the Bauchi State University to Sa’adu Zungur University reflects the institution’s commitment to honouring Nigeria’s heritage, promoting national unity, and fostering a spirit of excellence among its students, faculty, and staff.”
Tahir believes that this change will serve as a symbol of the university’s dedication to academic excellence and societal impact.
Meanwhile, our correspondent reports that the release contains the transition to Sa’adu Zungur University which marks a new chapter in the institution’s journey, “especially, one that emphasises the importance of preserving history, recognising national heroes, and instilling a sense of pride and purpose in the university community.”
