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This is to inform all UTME/DE Candidates who applied to IBB University, Lapai for the 2025/2026 Session, but could not complete the online Post UTME/DE Screening, that the Portal has been re-opened from Friday 25th October to Monday 31st October, 2025.
Candidates are, therefore, advised to seize this opportunity to screen, as the Portal would not be re-opened again after the deadline.
Signed:
Alhaji Idris Sale Kusherki,
Registrar.
In a landmark stride toward academic growth and infrastructural advancement, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, officially commissioned its newly completed Senate Building, named after the late former Governor of Niger State, Engr. Abdulkadir Abdullahi Kure, alongside a multi-billion-naira Faculty of Law Complex, one of the most modern and well-equipped in West Africa.
The event drew top dignitaries from within and outside Niger State, including the Chairman Board of Trustees and other representatives of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), members of the University’s Governing Council, traditional rulers, and government officials.
Represented by his Deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, the Visitor and Governor, Farmer Umaru Mohammed Bago reaffirmed the administration’s firm commitment to repositioning education under the New Niger Agenda.
He described the twin projects as a symbol of growth, vision, and service to humanity, and commended the University’s Management for its steadfast and dedication to excellence.
“The Faculty of Law we are commissioning today is one of the largest in West Africa, with over a hundred fully furnished offices, modern lecture theatres, an e-library, and facilities designed with inclusiveness for persons with special needs,” he said.
Garba further announced that the Governor had approved the construction of a new student hostel for the University through TETFund interventions, emphasizing that education remains the cornerstone of Niger State’s development agenda.
“Education is not an option; it is the foundation upon which we will build a prosperous, self-reliant Niger State,”
He stressed.
The Visitor also commended the Management of TETFund and IBBUL for their transparency and accountability, urging academic and non-academic staff to continue to justify the state’s investments through improved performance and collaboration.
Earlier, the Chairman of TETFund Board of Trustees, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, who led the Fund’s delegation, praised IBBUL’s leadership for its efficient project management and transparent utilization of intervention funds.
He disclosed that between 2011 and 2025, IBBUL had received ₦15.25 billion in infrastructure-related interventions, of which ₦13.04 billion had already been accessed and effectively utilized.
“The remodeled Senate Building and the magnificent Faculty of Law Complex represent tangible evidence of what collaboration and accountability can achieve,” Masari said.
“These structures symbolize hope, vision, and renewed commitment to academic excellence. We are confident that they will provide a conducive environment for scholarship and administration for many years to come.”
The BOT Chairman assured of continued support from TETFund in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in the areas of innovation, sustainable power, digital technology, and local capacity development.
The Vice Chancellor of IBBUL, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, in a welcome address, expressed deep gratitude to Governor Bago, TETFund, and all stakeholders for their contributions to the realization of the projects, describing the commissioning as a milestone in the University’s transformation journey.
He revealed that the Senate Building, which began in 2017 under TETFund’s 2017–2020 merged intervention, cost ₦1.58 billion, and features 70 offices, a 200-capacity Senate Chamber, Council Chamber, conference hall, and modern utilities.
The Faculty of Law Complex, he added, cost ₦2.50 billion, and includes 106 staff offices, four lecture theatres, an e-library, five boardrooms, and a 450-seat moot court.
“These edifices are more than bricks and mortar, they represent the convergence of purposeful leadership, effective partnership, and accountability,” the VC said.
“They will enhance administrative efficiency and provide an enabling environment for teaching, learning, and research.”
Professor Sulaiman also lauded the Chancellor and Emir of Minna, HRH Dr. Umaru Faruk Bahago, and the Emir of Lapai, HRH Umaru Bago Tafida III, for their continuous fatherly guidance and support to the institution.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Professor Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah in his appreciation speech, thanked Almighty Allah for the grace to witness the commissioning, while commending both the Federal and State Governments for their unwavering commitment to educational development.
“IBB University has been a major beneficiary of TETFund’s bold interventions, among which are the projects being commissioned today. We remain deeply grateful,” he said.
He assured that the University would continue to make judicious use of every intervention and appealed for more support to sustain the institution’s growth.
“We will not take these interventions for granted. Our commitment to accountability and prudent management remains absolute,” he added.
The Pro-Chancellor also acknowledged the Chancellor, HRH Dr. Umaru Faruk Bahago, for his timely interventions and steadfast role in promoting the University’s growth.
The commissioning ceremony, which took place amid celebration and reflection, marks yet another milestone in IBBUL’s history a university steadily emerging as a center of academic excellence, innovation, and justice in Niger State and beyond.
The Director of Sports, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Professor Mohammed Aliyu, has expressed profound appreciation to the University Management for its continuous support toward sports development, assuring that the Institution will return from the forthcoming Nigeria University Games (NUGA) with an impressive medal haul.
Speaking shortly after the University’s outstanding performance at the pre-NUGA trials in Abuja, Professor Aliyu commended both Management and students for their collective efforts that earned IBBUL a qualification spot for the main event.
“First of all, I want to appreciate the Management for giving us this opportunity to attend pre-NUGA,” he said.
“We thank them and pray that Almighty God will continue to give them the strength to assist us. I also want to appreciate the students who, despite our limited participation, gave their best and won most of the games we competed in.”
According to him, the University only participated in a few sporting events at the trials yet achieved remarkable results.
“We couldn’t come with all the games,” he explained, “but with the few we came with, our students worked very hard and secured several medals that qualified us for NUGA. We are grateful to God.”
Highlighting the next phase of preparation, Professor Aliyu disclosed that camping activities will commence immediately in Lapai ahead of the national event slated for November 5th in Jos.
“Our next line of action is to proceed to camp for at least two weeks before the real NUGA,” he said.
“We will present all our contingents and their medals to the Management and then move to Jos fully prepared. By the grace of God, we are not going to disappoint the University.”
The Director reaffirmed IBBUL’s track record of excellence in university games, expressing strong confidence in the athletes’ ability to bring home gold medals.
“They know quite alright that we have never gone for any competition and come back empty handed,” he stated. “This time around, we are not just coming back with silver we are coming back with gold.”
Professor Aliyu particularly praised the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, for his unwavering interest and investment in sports development.
“The present Vice Chancellor is a sports-loving leader, and we don’t want to disappoint him,” he noted.
“He has never disappointed us either. We only ask that he continues to support us the way he always does. By the grace of God, we will not disappoint him and the university community.”
On the University’s performance at the pre-NUGA trials, the Director revealed that IBBUL excelled in nearly all categories except football and basketball.
“Among all the games we went with to pre-NUGA Abuja, we only lost in Football and Basketball,” he stated.
“We won in the 100m Female (first and second positions), shot-put Female (first), Long Jump (first), Shot-put male (first), Taekwondo Male (first), Tennis Doubles (qualified), Mixed Doubles, 800m female, 400m male (first and third), Mixed Relay (second), and 4×4 Male Relay (first), among others.”
He extended gratitude to his team of coaches, medical staff, and supporting personnel for their commitment and professionalism throughout the competition.
“All these achievements wouldn’t have been possible without my co-staff, the coaches of various games, the medical team, and other supporting staff,” he said.
“We also thank God Almighty for a hitch-free event, no injuries, and safe journey mercies.”
Professor Aliyu concluded with renewed optimism that IBBUL will not only participate but also dominate at the 2025 NUGA Games.
Stakeholders and academic experts have called for strengthened governance structures, digital innovation, effective conflict management, and collaborative security frameworks in Nigerian universities during a two-day strategic governance retreat organized by Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai.
The retreat, which brought together members of the Governing Council, Deans, Directors and Management, as well as external experts, provided a platform to review institutional policies and chart a forward-looking roadmap for university growth and stability.
The second day of the retreat featured series of thought-provoking paper presentations that addressed key issues shaping the future of university administration in Nigeria.
The first paper, titled “Conflict Prevention and Management Strategies in In-House Union Engagement, Staff and Students’ Welfare in Nigerian Universities,” was presented by Professor Suleiman Bala Mohammed of the Department of Sociology, University of Abuja, and former Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
Professor Suleiman explained that conflicts within Nigerian universities are natural and inevitable but can be constructively managed and transformed into opportunities for institutional development.
He identified poor funding, inadequate welfare, and weak communication as major triggers of conflict, recommending participatory leadership, transparency, and proactive engagement between management, unions, and students to ensure peace and academic stability.
The paper was discussed by Professor Aliyu Bello Mohammed, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of IBBU Lapai, and Sirajo Sa’id, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Niger State. The session moderator, Professor A. B. Ahmed, commended the discourse for aligning with the retreat’s central theme of strengthening university governance and welfare.
The second presentation, “Community Policing Approach for Combating Crimes and Drug Abuse in Nigerian Universities and Host Communities,” was by the Commissioner of Police representing the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Useni Gumel of the Force Headquarters, Abuja.
The presentation highlighted the dangers of cultism, kidnapping, and drug abuse in tertiary institutions, emphasizing that tackling such threats requires trust-based partnerships among the police, university management, students, and host communities.
The Commissioner of Police also emphasized the vital role of university radio station as a powerful platform for engagement and information management within the academic community.
He noted that the campus radio should be strategically utilized to foster dialogue between students, management, and security agencies through well-structured programmes that promote awareness, discipline, and mutual understanding.
According to him, the radio serves as the fastest and most effective tool for curbing rumours, misinformation, and misconceptions that often arise between the town and gown. By creating interactive and youth-focused content, he said, the university could strengthen trust, enhance security collaboration, and promote a culture of peace and responsible communication among students and the wider community.
Discussants Dr. Emmanuel Umar, Head of the Department of Sociology, IBB University Lapai, and Niger State Commandant of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Malam Hashim, commended the presentation and offered practical recommendations, including preventive education, student counseling, and advocacy. They urged universities to adopt digital surveillance systems, drug-free campus policies, and civic responsibility courses to promote discipline and sustain academic excellence.
The third paper, “Incorporating Digital Transformation in University Curricular: Stimulating Internationalisation and National Relevance,” was delivered by former Vice-Chancellor of IBBU Lapai, Professor Mohammed Nasirudeen Maiturare.
He underscored the need for Nigerian universities to fully integrate digital transformation into their curricula to remain globally competitive and nationally relevant.
Professor Maiturare explained that digital transformation must go beyond mere technology adoption to become a strategic driver of learning, research, and institutional visibility. He revealed that IBBU Lapai has already taken steps by ensuring that all students, regardless of discipline, undertake ICT-related courses from 100 to 400 level to build digital competence.
He also called for partnerships with global ICT firms and international institutions to enhance research capacity, innovation, and employability.
The need for the University to adopt more strategic and sustainable ways of generating internal revenue through entrepreneurship-driven initiatives was strongly emphasized during the retreat.
Participants stressed that, beyond tuition fees, the Institution should explore innovative ventures such as establishing a university bakery, transport services, commercial water production, agricultural enterprises, printing press, and ICT consultancy units. These initiatives, they noted, would not only boost the University’s internally generated revenue but also provide practical training opportunities for students, promote self-reliance, and strengthen the University’s contribution to community development and economic sustainability.
The Discussant, Dr. Ruth W. Saba, a member of the University’s 6th Council, commended the paper for its insight and alignment with international best practices.
In his closing remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah, lauded the success of the retreat, describing it as an enlightening and unifying exercise for the entire University community. He urged the Management to revisit and review the University’s strategic plan in line with the discussions, particularly in areas of digital transformation and curriculum reform.
Quoting the Scout’s motto, he remarked, “The more we are together, the happier we shall be,” emphasizing that teamwork and collective reflection are essential to institutional progress.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki, expressed appreciation to all participants for their active contributions and dedication. He reaffirmed the University’s commitment to implementing the outcomes of the retreat, strengthening collaboration among all stakeholders, and advancing the Institution’s mission of excellence.
At the end of the retreat, a comprehensive communiqué capturing all recommendations and resolutions was drafted and will be transmitted to relevant policymakers and University stakeholders for future action and consideration.
A delegation of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Board of Trustees (BOT), North Central Zone have paid a working visit to Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, to inspect the newly completed University Senate Building and the Faculty of Law complex, both multi-million-naira projects funded by the Agency.
The Leader of the delegation, Engineer Nuruddeen Adeyemi, described the visit as a friendly and a familiarization exercise aimed at assessing the judicious utilization of TETFund interventions by the Institution.
“Our visit is a friendly one. To whom much is given, much is expected. We are here to see how the University has utilized the funds allocated to it, the quality of projects executed, and to also understand the challenges the institution is facing,” Adeyemi explained.
He emphasized that TETFund’s mission is not only to monitor but also to support institutions in achieving educational excellence in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He commended IBB University for its prudence and accountability in managing funds, noting that the Institution benefited from a ₦750 million zonal intervention for student hostel development despite not being a beneficiary institution for 2025.
Engineer Adeyemi further revealed that the University’s distressed projects, including the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, have received renewed attention with ₦426 million proposed to ensure their completion.
He assured that the Board remains committed to addressing peculiar institutional challenges and promoting sustainable infrastructural development.
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, expressed profound appreciation to TETFund for its continuous support and intervention, which he described as “a lifeline for Nigerian universities.”
“I am delighted to welcome you, Engineer Nuruddeen. Although I am just eight months in office, I can testify that without TETFund, most universities would struggle to survive especially in the area of capital projects,” the VC stated.
He noted that the ₦750 million intervention for hostel construction was timely, following student unrest linked to accommodation shortages. According to him, the University has over 21,000 students, with less than 2,000 accommodated on campus, a situation that poses serious security and management challenges.
Professor Sulaiman highlighted the excellent quality of the newly completed Faculty of Law and Senate Building, describing them as “architectural masterpieces that can stand anywhere in the world.”
He disclosed that the Council of Legal Education recently approved the commencement of the University’s Law programme after inspecting the facilities.
The Vice Chancellor appealed for additional TETFund interventions to support large-scale student accommodation, the completion of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences (now 70% completed), and the expansion of Medical training infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of applicants.
The Vice Chancellor also called for policy reforms that would allow universities more autonomy in determining their admission capacities for professional programs such as Medicine, in line with available infrastructure and national manpower needs.
In his closing remarks, the Registrar and Secretary to the Council, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki, represented by the Establishment Secretary, Mr. Sunday Gana, expressed the University’s profound gratitude to TETFund for its unwavering support.
He assured that IBB University would continue to uphold transparency and accountability in the management of all intervention projects while sustaining its partnership with TETFund for the advancement of tertiary education in Nigeria.
The Visitor to Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, and Governor of Niger State, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening and repositioning the University as a world-class centre of innovation and academic excellence.
Governor Bago stated this at the opening ceremony of a Two-day Retreat for members of the Sixth Governing Council of the University, held at Maizube, Farm Sabon Daga, Bida Road, with the theme: “Accentuating Academic Excellence through Strategic Corporate Governance in the University System.”
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Alhaji Sirajo Sa’id, the Governor described the retreat as a timely platform for deep reflection and strategic engagement on ways to strengthen academic governance, management efficiency, and sustainable funding.
He dispelled rumours suggesting that the establishment of Abdulkadir Kure University, Minna was designed to weaken or replace IBBU Lapai, explaining that the new university was created to complement and expand access to higher education across Niger State.
“The establishment of more universities in Niger State is not to dislocate IBB University Lapai, but to strengthen and expand the frontiers of tertiary education. This administration is fully committed to repositioning IBBU as a flagship institution of global repute,” Governor Bago stated.
The Governor lauded the University’s recent introduction of professional programmes in Medicine, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Law describing them as milestones that have endeared the Institution to government and stakeholders alike.
He reiterated that Niger State’s education policy is anchored on the National Policy on Education, stressing that the new retirement policy for academic staff was introduced to stabilize and strengthen the tertiary education system.
“Our ‘New Niger’ agenda envisions a state that thrives on knowledge, productivity, and innovation. The establishment of IBB University twenty years ago was to transform the human and material resources of Niger State for development purposes — and that vision remains intact,” he affirmed.
Governor Bago further announced plans by the state government to reconstitute the University’s Endowment Fund Board of Trustees, chaired by former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (GCFR), to enhance funding and promote sustainable growth.
He expressed optimism that the communiqué to be issued at the end of the retreat would provide a practical roadmap for improved governance, accountability, and academic excellence at IBBU Lapai.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, described the retreat as a landmark step toward reinforcing strategic governance and institutional growth.
He expressed gratitude to the Visitor, Farmer Governor Umaru Bago, for his unwavering support to education and for prioritizing university development in the state’s policy agenda.
“Your Excellency’s consistent encouragement and investment in education continue to inspire us to build an institution that truly reflects the dreams of its founders,” the Vice Chancellor said.
Professor Hadi also appreciated the Chancellor and Emir of Minna, His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Umar Farouk Bahago, CON, for his fatherly guidance and the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Sheikh Abdullah, OON, for his visionary leadership.
He further acknowledged the commitment of Ambassador Zubairu Dada, Dr. Bisi, Engineer Inuwa Musa, and other council members, unions, and student bodies for maintaining harmony and promoting academic excellence.
The Chairman of the Occasion and former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Ambassador Zubairu Dada, commended the Management and Council of IBBU for organizing the retreat at a critical moment in Nigeria’s education sector.
He emphasized the need for sound planning, innovation, and a forward-looking vision that would make IBBU a model among state-owned universities.
“It behoves on you to jealously guard the reputation of our pioneer state-owned university and make IBBU Lapai second to none,” he stated.
Delivering his keynote address, Professor Sheikh Abdullah, OON, highlighted effective management, quality assurance, and sustainable funding as essential pillars of academic excellence.
He urged university managers to avoid outdated administrative practices, stressing that “a manager who believes yesterday’s formula can solve tomorrow’s problem is bound to fail.”
The Chancellor and Emir of Minna, His Royal Highness, Dr. Umar Faruk Bahago, CON, congratulated the Sixth Governing Council on the successful organization of the retreat, noting that IBBU’s two-decade journey symbolizes resilience, dedication, and progress.
“Twenty years in the life of any academic institution is significant. This retreat provides a rare opportunity for reflection and renewed purpose,” the Emir remarked.
The technical sessions had Dr. Abdulkadir Hassan whose paper was titled, “Funding Strategy: Best Practices for Self-Funding and Budgetary Growth,” while Dr. Mohammed K. Santuraki, FNIM, delivered a presentation on “Aligning IBBU Lapai Council Oversight Roles with the Strategic Plans of the University.”
Both papers emphasized the importance of resource diversification, transparency, and effective oversight in promoting institutional stability and financial independence.
In his closing remarks, the Registrar and Secretary to the Governing Council, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki, expressed deep appreciation to all dignitaries and participants for their contributions to the retreat’s success.
He specifically lauded Governor Bago, the Chancellor, the Pro-Chancellor, and former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, for their steadfast support and commitment to IBBU’s growth.
“This retreat marks a new chapter in our journey of progress. The insights shared will no doubt translate into stronger governance, enhanced productivity, and lasting academic excellence,” he concluded.
The IBBU Lapai Strategic Governance Retreat served as a convergence of ideas, leadership experience, and policy insight reaffirming the University’s determination to remain a beacon of excellence and a catalyst for socio-economic development in Niger State and beyond.
The Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, has secured a new international grant to further consolidate its leadership role in the Connected Learning for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (CL4STEM) project.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, Professor Mohammed Salihu Niworu at the official flag-off of the consolidation phase in Lapai, said the Institution had received fresh recognition as a nodal institution for the global initiative.
He noted that IBBUL’s performance in the earlier phases of the project earned commendation from IDRC and other global partners for its leadership, professionalism, and effective financial management.
Professor Suleiman explained that the CL4STEM project, supported by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada, under the Global Partnership for Education’s Knowledge and Innovation Exchange, has made significant strides since its inception in 2021.
The project, he said, has successfully built the capacity of STEM teachers, introduced inclusive classroom practices, and strengthened collaboration among higher education institutions in Nigeria, Tanzania, Bhutan, and India.
While acknowledging challenges such as currency fluctuations and international fund transfers, the Vice Chancellor praised the resilience of the IBBU-led consortium in driving the project forward.
“IBBU and the team have shown leadership, professionalism, and full commitment. This new phase aims to consolidate the mainstreaming of the CL4STEM curriculum into pre-service teacher training and in-service teacher development. We are not expecting less from this team You have done it before and can do it even better,” he said.
The Project Lead Professor Tarjurdeen Mustapha explained that the CL4STEM project, funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada, under the Global Partnership for Education Knowledge and Innovation Exchange, is aimed at building the capacity of pre-service and in-service teachers to deliver inclusive and high-quality STEM education.
He added that the project has been implemented since 2021 in Nigeria, Bhutan, Tanzania, and India, with IBBU serving as the consortium leader for the Nigerian cluster in partnership with Kaduna State University, Bayero University Kano, and the Niger State Teachers’ Professional Development Institute.
According to the project’s Lead, IBBU had already piloted and scaled the programme between 2021 and 2024, recording significant success in training teachers in Niger, Kaduna, and Kano States, as well as in-service teachers across other locations.
“This new grant provides us with the opportunity to consolidate our efforts by mainstreaming CL4STEM pedagogy, curriculum content, and digital teaching skills into teacher education programmes at IBBU and in Niger State,” he said.
He added that the initiative would also strengthen collaboration with the Niger State Teachers’ Professional Development Institute to train master trainers, cascade teaching innovations across the state, and integrate digital learning into classroom practice.
Earlier, Dr. Hussaini Majiya had introduced members of the CL4STEM global grant team and acknowledged the Project Oversight Team led by Professor Suleiman and other top Management Officers, alongside members of the Global Project Governance Team drawn from Bhutan, Tanzania, and India.
He also Highlighted the innovation behind the new phase, the Institution announced the introduction of “communities of practice” to mentor pre-service teachers virtually while on teaching practice.
This model, officials said, will ensure continuous feedback, lesson plan development, and real-time support from university educators.
Dr Majiya stated that CL4STEM project, which entered its consolidation phase in 2025, is expected to further institutionalize STEM teacher training in Nigeria and strengthen regional and global collaboration in education, adding that the partners include Samtse College of Education in Bhutan, Open University of Tanzania, and Tata Institute of Social Sciences in India.
In their Separate goodwill remarks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Professor Mohammed Aliyu Bello, Director Academic Planning Professor Kabir Mohammed Adamu, Coordinating Director of Research and Development, Professor Folorunso Alimi Lawal and Dr. Ibrahim Abdullahi, Director of ICT commended the resilience of the project team, pledging continued institutional support.
“IBBU has demonstrated excellence in leading this global collaboration. We will sustain this commitment to ensure our teachers and students benefit maximally”.
“This project is a clear testimony to how partnerships can drive educational innovation. We are confident of greater impact in this consolidation phase.”
In his closing remarks, The Registrar, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki, assured the team of full administrative support for the project’s success.
“As an institution, we are proud to lead this initiative. Our doors remain open to ensure all stakeholders work seamlessly for the greater good of education in Nigeria,” he said.
…Urges Sustained Commitment to Global Standard.
The Council for Legal Education has commended Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, for its remarkable strides in the development of its Faculty of Law, describing the improvements as “substantial and commendable.”
The visiting team, led by the Director General of the Council, Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma (SAN), emphasized that the University must sustain its momentum to meet both national and international benchmarks for legal education.
He acknowledged the visible progress made by IBBUL since the Council’s last visit.
The Director General stated that, “There is no denying that we have seen significant improvement.
From furniture and teaching aids to a functional e-library, the University has demonstrated commendable commitment to building a conducive environment for legal education. This is a step in the right direction.”
While appreciating the efforts of the Management, Professor Chiroma stressed the need for further enhancements in modern teaching and staff welfare facilities. “Television and satellite services are not luxuries; they are teaching tools. The same applies to fridges, air-conditioning systems, and well-furnished common rooms for both staff and students. If these facilities are available, lecturers will remain committed, and students will find a healthy environment to learn and interact. Similarly, classrooms must be adequately equipped with air-conditioners, blinds, and smart boards, while the library requires a steady supply of new books and periodicals. In law, knowledge is updated daily, and so must the resources. The University is on the right path, but it must not relent.” he maintained
Responding, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, reaffirmed IBBUL’s resolve to make the Faculty of Law a model of excellence.
“On behalf of the Council and Management of this University, I want to assure you that your observations have been carefully noted.
I guarantee that these concerns from classrooms and common rooms to teaching aids and welfare facilities will be addressed promptly. Law remains at the top of our priorities, and our vision is to make this Faculty compete favourably with the best in Nigeria and beyond.”
Professor Sulaiman also emphasized the University’s strict compliance with regulatory standards in its preparations for law admissions.
“We will not compromise the guidelines of the Council for Legal Education. Despite pressures, we have resisted the temptation to admit students prematurely because quality cannot be rushed. At the same time, we are working to attract senior academics to strengthen our faculty, offering incentives where necessary. Our mission is clear: to establish a Faculty of Law that stands as a lasting legacy, one that will command respect across Nigeria and Africa.”
In a closing remark, the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki, expressed deep appreciation to the Director General and his team for their visit and constructive feedback.
“We feel highly privileged to have you here once again, and I assure you that we have taken copious note of all your observations,” he said
Alhaji Kusherki pledged the Institution’s commitment to immediate corrective action and continuous improvement.
“Within the next few weeks, we will work tirelessly to address the highlighted issues, especially in areas concerning infrastructure, staff welfare, and modern teaching equipment. Your observations are not just instructions but guiding principles that will strengthen our pursuit of academic excellence.”
Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, has hosted the third quarter plenary session of the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) Zonal Directors and Coordinators meeting.
The meeting which was held at the Directorate of Research and Development Board Room brought together SIWES Directors and Coordinators from tertiary institutions across the region to deliberate on strategies for strengthening the scheme and advancing its role in national development.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman,who declared the meeting opened expressed delight at the University’s opportunity to host the strategic gathering, describing SIWES as a vital tool in bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry experience.
He emphasized that IBBUL remains committed to equipping its students with practical skills that extend beyond theoretical knowledge, stressing that the scheme has consistently prepared undergraduates for the realities of the modern workplace.
Professor Sulaiman further applauded the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and stakeholders for their dedication in ensuring that Nigerian students benefit from practical exposure, thereby enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial potential.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that the meeting was timely and essential in aligning institutional efforts with the national vision for human capital development.
He expressed optimism that the deliberations would not only strengthen collaboration among participating institutions but also foster innovation in SIWES administration while opening new opportunities for industry-academic partnerships.
Professor Sulaiman also urged participants to feel at home in Lapai, enjoy the university’s hospitality, and explore the host community.
In his opening remarks, the SIWES Coordinator of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Professor Aliyu Isyaku Ma’ali, welcomed participants and reflected on the significance of the quarterly Zonal Directors’ gathering.
He explained that the meeting serves as a platform for Directors to deliberate on key issues and challenges affecting the programme, while also providing an avenue to strengthen strategies for effective implementation.
Expressing his appreciation, the SIWES Coordinator commended the Industrial Training Fund, participating institutions, and stakeholders for their support and confidence in IBB University.
He assured that the University remained committed to providing the necessary guidance and collaboration to ensure that the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme continues to equip Nigerian students with the skills and exposure needed to thrive in the world of work.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Dr. Hafeez Oluwatoyin, commended the collective commitment of SIWES Directors, stakeholders, and industry partners to advance human capital development in Nigeria.
He described the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme as the nation’s premier platform for bridging the gap between academia and industry, noting that its remarkable success remains a product of strategic collaboration and dedication by participating institutions.
The Director-General highlighted the addition of El-Amin University, Minna, to the growing list of institutions implementing SIWES, describing it as a welcome development that reflects the scheme’s continuous expansion and relevance.
He further applauded the eleven participating institutions and industry partners who consistently open their doors to students, thereby shaping the future of Nigeria’s workforce.
Dr. Oluwatoyin emphasized that the quarterly zonal meeting was not just a routine gathering, but a strategic platform to review progress, address challenges with solution-driven approaches, and chart new pathways for greater impact. He reaffirmed ITF’s commitment to enhancing industry engagement, expanding placement opportunities, and strengthening the scheme through innovative interventions that address emerging workforce needs.
While urging participants to view SIWES as a vital tool in producing work-ready graduates, he challenged institutions to sustain stronger industry-academia partnerships that would empower the next generation of world-class professionals.
The Director-General concluded by expressing optimism that the deliberations would yield transformative ideas, deepen collaboration, and ultimately contribute to shaping the destiny of Nigeria’s workforce and the future of the nation.
In his closing remarks, the Registrar and Secretary to Council of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki, expressed profound appreciation to the participants for choosing IBB University as host for the third quarter SIWES Zonal Directors’ meeting.
He noted that the University felt deeply honoured by their presence and highlighted the seriousness with which the Management prepared for the event, stressing that the Vice-Chancellor personally reminded the leadership team of the importance of the gathering.
He thanked the delegates for travelling from near and far, describing their participation as a testament to the collective commitment to advancing SIWES.
Alhaji Kusherki also encouraged the visiting Directors and Coordinators to take time to tour the University’s facilities, including the College of Health Sciences, the ongoing Faculty of Environmental Sciences, the Faculty of Law, and the Senate Building. He said these structures reflect the Institution’s determination to provide a conducive learning environment for students.
The Registrar further urged participants to serve as ambassadors of the institution by sharing their observations and experiences with others beyond the meeting.
Humans have been advised to protect rivers for their survival or face the consequences of their actions.
Presenting his lecture during the 25th Inaugural Lecture series titled, “Social Relations of Rivers and Smart Sustainable River Management: A Serendipitous Journey of A Fluvial Geomorphologist”, at the Auditorium, Main Campus, Lapai, Professor Sheikh Danjuma Abubakar of the Department of Geography, spotlighted the urgent need to protect rivers through sustainable management and recognition of their rights, warning that continued neglect could have dire consequences for human survival.
The scholar explained that fluvial geomorphology, the study of river shapes, forms, and processes offers critical insights into how rivers shape landscapes, regulate climate, and sustain ecosystems.
“Fresh water is alarmingly scarce. Less than three percent of the Earth’s water is fresh, and most of it is locked in glaciers or deep underground. What remains accessible is vital to human life and must be managed wisely,” the lecture stressed.
According to him, tracing the history of fluvial geomorphology from 19th-century river landform studies to the modern use of satellite imaging and modeling, the lecturer underscored the importance of rivers to social, economic, and environmental stability.
Professor Sheikh advocated a paradigm shift from exploitation to stewardship, urging Nigeria to adopt the Universal Declaration of the Rights of Rivers into law and stressed that it should be complemented by Community Coalitions (CCs) that bring together governments, local communities, and river users to ensure sustainable management.
Professor Abubakar argued that rivers, much like humans, possess social relations that must be respected. He warned that unsustainable practices such as indiscriminate damming and poor management often trigger destructive floods, citing Sokoto (2010), Lokoja (2022), Maiduguri (2024), and Mokwa (2025) as case studies.
“When rivers are poorly managed, they react and the consequences are devastating for communities, agriculture, and the environment,” he cautioned.
“There is an urgent need to regulate the activities of companies, institutions, and individuals around rivers so they do not cause irreversible damage,” he said, echoing the findings of Eniolorunda & Abubakar (2022) on building mutually beneficial relationships with rivers.
He called for Legal recognition of rivers’ rights for long-term sustainability, Adoption of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) to coordinate water, land, and resource development, Policy enforcement to curb harmful practices that degrade river systems as well as mindset change from exploitation to respect and responsible care of rivers.
The Inaugural Lecturer lamented that failure to respect rivers could trigger devastating consequences, including flooding, displacement, waterborne diseases, and widespread socio-economic disruptions.
“Protecting rivers is not optional, it is a matter of survival for humans, for ecosystems, and for the future.” he said
Earlier in his welcome address, the Vice- Chancellor Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, has warned that Nigeria must urgently adopt smarter and sustainable river management practices to tackle the devastating effects of climate change and flooding.
Professor Sulaiman gave the charge while declaring open the University’s 25th Inaugural Lecture, stressing that research in geography and other specialised fields must move beyond theory to provide practical solutions for society.
“Research in areas of specialisation can yield geographical, economic, health, social, and political gains for a country. With climate change threatening our existence, geographers must connect the recommendations of their research to real-life challenges,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
He applauded the diligence of the Senate Committee on Seminars and Conferences, led by Professor Victor A. Kolawole, for sustaining the lecture series despite challenges, and commended the Institution’s Visitor, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, for his unwavering support to the University.
Also, the Chairman of the University’s Conferences and Seminar Committee, Professor Victor A. Kolawole applauded the Vice Chancellor for agreeing to sustain the timetable for inaugural lectures series.
He appreciated the 25th Inaugural Lecture presenter, Professor Sheikh Danjuma Abubakar for his meticulous and dexterous ways of handling the topic of the lecture.
He Chairman appreciated the University Management for the continuous support to the Committee and called for sustained efforts.
Dignitaries present included Honourable Abdullahi Mahmud, Member representing Agaie/Lapai Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, who pledged legislative support for environmental research, and Honourable Muhammed Sani Idris, Chairman of the Niger State House Committee on Education, who assured that the Assembly would strengthen its backing for scholarship and sustainable development.
Speaking in an interview after the presentation, the Emir of Agaie, Alhaji Yusuf Nuhu described the lecture as “timely and socially relevant,” affirming that traditional institutions will partner with academia in addressing flooding and land degradation.
In a vote of thanks, the Registrar, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki appreciated the Governor of Niger State, Council, Management of the University and all other people present at the event, noting that their presence was a demonstration of unflinching support and commitment to IBBU Lapai.
