As Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, prepares for the full resumption of second semester academic activities, the Institution is set to unveil a new phase in its entrepreneurship drive with the immediate launch of its university run bakery, confectionery, and sachet and bottled water production Units at the Centre for Entrepreneurship Innovation and Development (CEID).

The Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, announced this while addressing a delegation from GIZ COPA at the University.

He emphasized the Institution’s readiness to integrate practical skill acquisition into the campus experience.

According to the Vice Chancellor, the initiative is part of a broader intervention by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), aimed at promoting entrepreneurship education and fostering economic self-reliance among Nigerian university students.

“We are pleased to announce that the University Bakery and Water production projects are now ready to commence operations. These facilities are not just business ventures but learning hubs that will equip our students with hands-on skills in food processing, packaging, branding, and business management,” he said.

He added that the development aligns with IBBUL’s long term strategy to reposition academic training with practical and entrepreneurial relevance. The new Units will also serve as platforms for internships, industrial training, and research for students in related disciplines.

He then congratulated the Centre for Entrepreneurship Innovation and Development (CEID) for the milestone achievement.

The Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship Innovation and Development, Professor Idris Ndagi, commended the Vice Chancellor for his visionary leadership, describing the new ventures as a “giant step forward” in making IBBUL a model for enterprise-driven education.

“These are not just academic add-ons. They are deliberate, strategic components of the University’s mission to prepare graduates for the real world, ” he noted.

The new production Units are also expected to generate internal revenue for the University while creating temporary employment opportunities for skilled students and staff.

With the academic calendar set to resume fully in the coming weeks, the university community and surrounding towns are already expressing optimism that the renewed entrepreneurial focus will bring fresh energy and innovation to campus life.

In a strategic move to reposition its entrepreneurship education, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, is set to deepen its curriculum through a new partnership with the German Development Agency, GIZ COPA under the Integrated Curriculum for Skills and Startups (ICSS) initiative.

Receiving a delegation from GIZ COPA at the University, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, underscored the urgent need to shift from conventional academic models to skill-based learning that promotes self-reliance and innovation among students.

“Graduates must begin to see themselves not just as job seekers, but as job creators,” Professor Sulaiman declared.

“This is why entrepreneurship must be at the heart of our academic direction. Through initiatives like ICSS and support from agencies like GIZ, we are laying the foundation for a more empowered generation.”

The Vice Chancellor also disclosed that IBBUL had recently received a TETFund intervention dedicated to entrepreneurship development, with projects such as a University Bakery and Table Water production unit designed to offer hands on experience for students and staff.

In his remarks Mr. Pike Bruns, a representative of GIZ COPA, reiterated the Agency’s commitment to strengthening entrepreneurship education across Nigerian universities.

He said the ICSS curriculum was developed to provide practical business knowledge that goes beyond theory, enabling students to launch viable startups even before graduation.

“We see ICSS as a long-term investment. By collaborating with institutions like IBBUL, we hope to inspire a shift in how universities prepare their graduates not just for the labour market, but for leadership in business and innovation,” Bruns noted

Also speaking, the Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Development, Professor Idris Ndagi, welcomed the partnership as a timely intervention that aligns with the University’s vision. He expressed optimism that the collaboration would enrich the University’s academic offerings and enhance students’ readiness for the dynamic Nigerian economy.

“The ICSS team has shown strong interest in returning for follow-up engagements. We’ve requested their curriculum modules, which will soon be shared with our lecturers and relevant departments to kick-start the next phase of integration,” Professor Ndagi revealed.

The ICSS initiative, supported by GIZ, is designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and entrepreneurial practice, offering students the tools to build sustainable businesses from local opportunities. The partnership with IBBUL is expected to significantly boost the University’s capacity to produce self-sufficient graduates who contribute meaningfully to national development.

Following a comprehensive review of security measures and infrastructure improvements, His Excellency, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago, the Executive Governor of Niger State, has approved the immediate reopening of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai. The institution was temporarily closed due to security concerns and the unfortunate loss of lives within the University community.

A statement issued by Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman disclosed that Farmer Governor Bago was satisfied with the robust security architecture and infrastructural developments put in place to safeguard students, staff and the University community. Consequently, he has directed that academic activities resume on Monday, 4th August, 2025.

The SSG emphasized the Government’s unwavering commitment to the safety and welfare of students and staff while ensuring uninterrupted academic progress.

Alhaji Usman commended the collaborative efforts of security operatives, University authorities and community leaders in addressing the challenges that led to the closure.

According to the SSG, “Governor Bago, while approving the reopening, emphasized that the safety and welfare of students and staff remain a top priority for his administration. He reiterated his commitment to education as a cornerstone of development, assuring the University community of the Government’s continued support”.

The statement implored all returning students and staff to adhere strictly to the security protocols and to cooperate fully with University authorities for a smooth and safe resumption.

Former President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, GCFR, has hinted on more hostel accommodation for Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai.

He dropped the hint when the University Management team led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman visited him at his UpHill residence in Minna.

The Elder Statesman appreciated the Management of the University for the courtesy visit and prayed that the University would continue to grow stronger.

He expressed the hope that shortage of hostel accommodation for students would be a thing of the past.

“We will do the best to assist the University,” he emphasized.

Earlier in his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman thanked the Elder Statesman for the excellent services he is rendering to the country and humanity, especially IBB University, Lapai.

Professor Sulaiman equally appreciated the former Military President for the warm reception and told him that the University was in dare need of more hostel accommodation, stressing that the Elder Statesman should come to the rescue of the University, using his immense influence.

He disclosed that another Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETfund) hostel intervention to the tune of Three Billion, Eight Hundred Thousand naira was in the offing for the University.

Professor Sulaiman said that the intervention was for the construction of both male a female hotels with three hundred rooms each.

The Vice Chancellor briefed the former President on the events of the past weeks in the University, which led to its closer.

He stressed that hostel accommodation has become a major nightmare for students of over Nineteen thousand, with over Seventeen thousand living off campus.

On the entourage of the Vice Chancellor were, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic, Professor Muhammad Aliyu Bello; Registrar, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki; and the University Librarian, Dr. Abubakar N. Usman.

Others were, Bursar, Alhaji Muhammad Alfa Daniyan and the Deputy Registrar, Information, Alhaji Baba Akote respectively.

Prayers were offered for the life of the Elder Statesman, the University, Niger State, and Nigeria.

The Centre for Applied Sciences and Technology Research (CASTER) Building, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai has been named PROFESSOR NUHU GEORGE OBAJE BUILDING.

This was announced by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman at the 100th regular Senate Meeting held in the Senate Chamber, Main Campus, Lapai.

He said the approval for the naming was given by the University Governing Council as recommended by the Management .

Professor Sulaiman said the move is to immortalise late Professor Obaje for his dogged research exploits in the University.

The Vice Chancellor urged other Researchers in the University to continue to maintain the lead in their research activities.

Before his death in November last year, Late Professor Nuhu George Obaje was the Coordinating Director, Research and Development and the pioneer Basinal Chair Professor for the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).

Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai has confirmed the promotion
of seven Professors and sixteen others to the position of Readers.

The announcement for the confirmation was made at the 100th regular meeting of the Senate held in the Senate Chamber, Main Campus, Lapai.

The Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman announced that the University Governing Council at its 60th regular meeting held on Tuesday, the 27th May, 2025 had earlier ratify the promotions.

Those promoted to professorial seat are: Dr. Shuaibu Ndagi Sayedi, Professor of Business and Finance; Dr. Adebiyi Alini Adelakun, Open Distance and e-Learning ;
Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Baji, Educational Psychology; Dr. Aliyu Mohammed, Health Education (Mental and Social Health); Dr. Olajide Muili Folaranmi, Adult and Non-Formal Education.

Others new professors are, Dr. Mathew Tersoo Tsepav, Applied Geo-Physics; and Dr. James Obilikwu, Financial Economics respectively.

Those promoted to Readers (Associates Professors) are: Dr. Muktar Bala, Health and Quantitative Economics; Dr. Hussaini Mohammed Majiya, Public Health Microbiology and Biotechnology; Dr. Adisa Mohammed Jimoh, Natural Products Chemistry; Dr. Nmadu Timothy, Human Resources Management; Dr. Muhammed Habiba Maikudi, Applied Plant Mycology; Dr. Mohammed Jiya Lakan, Extension Education and Community Development; Dr. Suleiman Yusuf Bagerei, Food Technology; Dr. Ibrahim Suleiman Kuta, Nuclear and Radiation Physics; Dr. Amuzat Aliyu, Nutritional Biochemistry/Phytomedicine.

Others are: Dr. Musa Emanuel Umaru, Criminology and Security Studies; Dr. Aishat Rabiu Sani, Medical Microbiology (Bacteriology); Dr. Yahaya Say Yadi Mohammed, Environmental Engineering; Dr. Ndanusa Babakatcha, Electronic/Communication; Dr. Usman Naji Gimba, Public Health/Parasitology; Dr. Mohammed Isah Legbo, Pharmaceutical Microbiology; and Dr. Musa Usman, Local Government Administration respectively.

In a congratulatory message, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman urged the promoted academic staff to continue to work harder and use their new positions for the growth and development of the University.

He also extended a congratulatory message from the Visitor, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Niger State, Farmer Muhammad Umaru Bago and the Honourable Commissioner, Tertiary Education, Honourable Abdullahi Adamu Mammagi, urging them to be more dedicated to their primary assignments of teaching and research.

All promotions take effect from 1st October, 2024.

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has approved a Special Intervention Project worth ₦750 million for the construction of a 200-bed capacity students’ hostel at the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai.

The project, which will be executed within 36 weeks (9 months), comprise 32 rooms, two common rooms, a modern kitchen, laundry area, a borehole with overhead tank, and each room will be equipped with a private toilet and wardrobe, ensuring a comfortable and conducive environment for students.

Speaking at the signing of the contract, the Vice Chancellor of IBBU, Professor Muhammad Hadi Sulaiman, described the development as a strategic boost to students’ welfare infrastructure, emphasizing the University’s commitment to improved campus life and academic excellence.

“We are grateful to TETfund for this intervention, which aligns with our long-term vision for a student-friendly environment,” he said.

The project followed due process, including a comprehensive feasibility study, geotechnical survey, soil analysis, structural and architectural designs, and the preparation of a detailed bill of quantity, all of which culminated in an open competitive bidding process in line with public procurement guidelines.

The Chief Executive of the construction firm handling the project, Green-View Tech. Limited, TPL Muhammad Hamza has assured of timely and quality delivery pledging utmost professionalism.

“We are bringing our experience and commitment to this project. It is not just about erecting a structure; it’s about creating a lasting legacy for future leaders,” he stated.

The project which will be supervised by Shelter Groove Architects, the consulting firm providing technical guidance throughout the construction phase.

The firm’s involvement is to ensures that best practices in structural integrity and functional design are strictly adhered to.

This intervention is expected to significantly address the accommodation challenges faced by students and further promote academic concentration and well-being on campus.

A Team of Legal luminary from the Nigeria Council of Legal Education has visited the new Faculty of Law at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai for facility verification.

The team which was led by the Director – General of the Council, Professor Isa Hayyatu Chiroma (SAN) was to verify the University’s facilities in both the old and newly constructed Law Faculty buildings.

During the inspection, Professor Chiroma described the new Faculty building as “massive and one of the largest in the country” he had seen, even though it was still under construction.

He noted that, although the building had over 100 offices, lecture halls, a law clinic, a moot court, and an auditorium, which when well furnished will provide excellent learning environment for the take-off of law programme at the University.

He stressed that proper furnishing of staff offices, classrooms, moot courts, and the law library were necessary for the final approval of the Faculty’s law programme by the Nigeria Council of Legal Education.

For the library holdings, the Director – General commended the effort by the University but noted that more hardcopies and e-copies of books were required, especially in core subject areas. He also recommended that the University subscribes to additional legal research databases beyond the existing LexisNexis, emphasizing the urgent need to provide a utility vehicle and a bus for outreach programmes under the Law clinic.

“We are not here to witch-hunt the University, but to help improve facilities and ensure compliance with national legal education standards,” he emphasized.

In his response, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, expressed gratitude to the visiting team and assured that the University was fully committed to addressing all issues raised.

He disclosed that furnishing contracts for the new Faculty of Law building had already been awarded, but the furnishing could only commence once the main contractor complete work on the physical structure,
confirming that the University had made arrangements to resolve all outstanding issues in no distant future.

Professor Sulaiman also disclosed that the University had secured TETFund intervention for the procurement of more law books and that subscriptions to electronic legal resources, including the Weekly Law Reports, would be made available within a few days.

Regarding transportation, the Vice Chancellor assured that efforts are being made to secure buses for both Law and Medical students.

“We are in contact with His Excellency, the Visitor to the University, and the Niger State Transport Authority for the provision of buses. We are optimistic that they will arrive by July,” the Vice-Chancellor stated.

Professor Sulaiman further explained that four additional offices had been allocated to the Faculty of Law in a provisional block and at professorial complex, pending the Faculty’s full relocation to the new Faculty of Law building by December this year.

On the moot court, the Vice Chancellor disclosed that recent rainstorms had damaged some ceiling work, but repairs were being effected. “We are replacing the suspended ceiling with POP or concrete for durability. All furniture for the moot court has been paid for and will be installed immediately after repairs are completed,” he said.

Professor Sulaiman thanked the team from the Nigeria Council of Legal Education for its objective assessment and pledged continued collaboration to meet all accreditation requirements.

Commenting, the Dean, Faculty of Law, Professor Abdulmunini Baba Ahmed acknowledged the Council’s commendation of the University’s efforts so far and assured that more efforts would be made to ensure that world class facilities are provided for the Faculty of Law to facilitate the take-off of the programme.

In a vote of thanks, the Registrar, Alhaji Idris Saleh Kusherki, represented by the Deputy Registrar Establishment, Mr. Sunday Gana, expressed sincere appreciation to the Director-General of the Nigeria Council of Legal Education and his delegation for the facility verification visit.

He assured the team that the University is fully committed to ensuring the successful commencement of the Law programme and will make every necessary effort to meet all required standards and provisions for a smooth take-off.

Receives Representative on Energy Audit in the Institution

The Vice-Chancellor, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, has appealed to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETfund) and its collaborator, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), to consider extending the proposed solar mini-grid project beyond the main campus in Lapai to the University’s satellite locations.

Professor Sulaiman made the appeal while receiving the technical team from the REA, who were on campus to carry out an energy audit as part of the first phase of the solar power intervention project. He emphasized that this move would not only serve as a corporate social responsibility gesture to the Lapai community but also enhance access to clean and sustainable energy across the University’s outreach centers.

“It is no longer news that most universities in Nigeria, including IBBUL, are burdened by exorbitant electricity bills, which consume a significant portion of our limited resources,” the Vice-Chancellor lamented.

“We would be immensely grateful if the federal government, through TETfund and REA, could support us by providing alternative power solutions such as solar energy to ease this financial strain.”

He further noted that adopting solar energy would not only reduce operational costs but also promote environmental sustainability through reduced carbon emissions.

“This initiative is not just about cost-saving. It’s about embracing green energy that is cleaner and easier to maintain, and more reliable. Currently, we spend heavily on maintenance replacing broken poles, dealing with faults, and purchasing diesel. With a solar mini-grid, we can redirect those funds to other critical areas of need within the University,” he said

The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted a recent incident where prolonged power outages disrupted student examinations between late March and April. Due to limited supply from the distribution company, stressing that students endured extreme heat conditions during the exams, an experience that the University Management is determined to prevent in future.

Professor Sulaiman reaffirmed the institution’s readiness to support the REA technical team throughout the auditing process and reiterated his appeal for the extension of the project to all University satellite campuses as part of a broader strategy to ensure inclusive and equitable access to renewable energy solutions.

In his remarks, the REA representative, Engineer Richard Yaro, explained the purpose of the visit and assured the University community of the Agency’s commitment to delivering a sustainable energy solution.

“We are here today in collaboration with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETfund) to conduct a comprehensive energy audit across the entire University,” he stated.

“The purpose of this audit is to assess the Institution’s current energy consumption and determine its total load demand. This is a crucial step in our plan to deploy a solar mini-grid system that will serve the entire University community by understanding its energy needs.

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted full accreditation to three academic programmes at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai.

This was officially conveyed in a letter signed by the Acting Director of Accreditation, Engr. Abraham Chundusu.

The accredited programmes include Mass Communication, Computer Science, and Biology. According to the letter, the accreditation followed a rigorous assessment conducted by the Commission during its visit to the University in October and November 2024.

Engr. Chundusu explained that the exercise was carried out in accordance with Section 10 (1) of the Education (National Minimum Standards and Establishment of Institutions) Act, CAP E3, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. This section empowers the Commission to set minimum academic standards and accredit all academic programmes offered by Nigerian universities in line with the law.

The results of the recent accreditation exercise revealed that Mass Communication (under Communication and Media Studies) received full accreditation, Computer Science (under Computing) received full accreditation while Biology (under Sciences) also received full accreditation.

By implication, each of these programmes has been granted full accreditation status for a period of five years. Furthermore, the University is now eligible to mount postgraduate programmes in these disciplines, in accordance with NUC guidelines.

This achievement reflects IBBUL’s commitment to academic excellence and its continuous efforts to meet national and international standards in tertiary education.

Reacting, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman expressed delight with the achievement and thanked the Visitor, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago for the support to the Institution.

He assured that IBB University, Lapai would continue to do the needful to achieve academic excellence.

The Vice Chancellor appreciated staff and students for remaining steadfast in academic pursuits.