

By Dada Ahmed, Lokoja.
The Kogi State branch of the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Alumni Association has intensified preparations for its upcoming Get-Together and Award Night, scheduled to be held in July 2025 in Lokoja, the state capital.
This renewed commitment was reaffirmed during the association’s monthly meeting held on Thursday at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Secretariat in Lokoja.
Presenting the progress report, the chairman of the organizing committee, Hon. Garba Bako, informed members that the event is projected to cost about N5 million.
He noted that the committee has already developed a comprehensive plan covering logistics such as venue arrangement, catering, entertainment, publicity, invitations, and fundraising.
He also disclosed that between 10 and 15 distinguished members of the association have been shortlisted to receive awards in recognition of their contributions to the association and society at large.
Members at the meeting applauded the committee for its dedication and thoroughness.
The state chairman of the association, Engr. Mohammed, also commended the committee for living up to expectations but urged them to enhance their revenue drive efforts in raising adequate funds for the execution of the event.
Engr.Sagir also appealed to members of the association to contribute, financially and morally,towards of the success of the planned get together.
He urged all members to view the forthcoming event as a collective responsibility and a crucial opportunity to strengthen the unity and purpose of the association.and fixed the next meeting for July 26,,2025.
Engr.Sagir expressed the condolences of the association for the loss of the junior sister to Dr Abdul Drenja, one of the pioneer members of the branch and one time Vice President (north central)ABU Alumni Association.
He prayed to Almighty Allah to grant the deceased aljanah firdaus and her family, the fortitude to bear the great loss.
Responding,Dr.Denja thanked members for the show of concern over the bereavement.
He said that though death is an inevitable end of anybody, the death of his junior sister was very painful, to him,n view of his unique closeness to her.
In a bid to accelerate preparations and enhance coordination, the association resolved to increase the frequency of its meetings from monthly to bi-monthly
Our correspondent reports that the Get-Together and Award Night is expected to bring together alumni, to celebrate achievements, foster networking, and promote the objectives of the association.
Highlight of the meeting was the handing over the the committee’s report, by its chairman,to the chairman of the association.