The Federal University Gashua (FUGASHUA) marked a significant milestone in its history on Saturday, July 12, 2025, as it held its maiden convocation ceremony for the award of first and higher degrees, as well as the conferment of honorary degrees on eminent personalities who have made notable contributions to national development.
The historic event took place at the University’s 1,000-capacity auditorium, drawing dignitaries from across the country, members of the academic community, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and proud parents.
🎓 A New Era of Academic Excellence
The ceremony celebrated the graduation of the University’s pioneer set of students from various faculties, including Arts, Sciences, Social Sciences, Agriculture, and Management Sciences. Graduands from postgraduate programmes were also awarded higher degrees after fulfilling all academic requirements.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Maimuna Waziri, expressed deep pride in the achievements of the graduating class and the growth of the university since its establishment in 2013. She described the occasion as a “dream fulfilled” and a testament to the resilience and commitment of both staff and students.
“Today is not only a celebration of academic excellence but also a reflection of how far we have come as an institution committed to knowledge, innovation, and community impact,” Prof. Waziri stated.
🏅 Honorary Degrees Bestowed on National Icons
The high point of the event was the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees on a select group of distinguished Nigerians who have made exceptional contributions in education, public service, leadership, entrepreneurship, and humanitarian work.
Among the honorees were:
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Dr. Amina Ibrahim, UN Deputy Secretary-General, for her global leadership in sustainable development and women empowerment.
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Alhaji Mohammed Indimi (OFR), renowned businessman and philanthropist, recognized for his contributions to education and poverty alleviation in the North-East.
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Professor Babagana Zulum, Executive Governor of Borno State, acknowledged for his visionary leadership and bold reforms in education and security.
🏆 Prizes for Academic Excellence
Outstanding students were recognized with institutional awards and cash prizes for academic excellence, leadership, innovation, and service. The Best Graduating Student, Miss Zainab Abubakar from the Department of Microbiology, emerged with a First Class Honours and received the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Excellence.
📢 Voices of Encouragement and Hope
The convocation lecture, delivered a day earlier, was titled “Universities and the Future of Nigeria: Charting a Sustainable Path”. The keynote speaker, Professor Attahiru Jega, former INEC Chairman and education reform advocate, emphasized the need for Nigerian universities to evolve as drivers of innovation, critical thinking, and national unity.
He challenged the graduating class to be ambassadors of integrity, encouraging them to use their education to address the challenges facing their communities and the nation at large.
🌍 Towards Global Recognition
With this milestone, FUGASHUA joins the league of Nigerian universities that have successfully graduated students and contributed to human capital development. The university has over the years built partnerships with development organizations, expanded its academic programmes, and improved infrastructural facilities to meet global standards.
The convocation ended with cultural displays, photographs, and goodwill messages from alumni, partner institutions, and stakeholders who have supported the university’s journey so far.
