By Dada Ahmed.
Preparations are in full swing for a high-profile symposium and monument unveiling, scheduled for August 21, 2025, in Zaria, aimed at honouring past Nigerian deans of the renowned former Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.
This is contained in a statement signed by Alhaji Abdullahi Shuaibu,National Public Relations Officer
International Studies Alumni Association
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
In a statement,a copy of which was made available to The Reporters in Lokoja on Thursday, Shuaibu said the countdown is led by the National President of the International Studies Alumni Association (ISAA), Ambassador Muntari Kaita.
He added that on Wednesday, Kaita led a delegation of national officers and a Board of Trustees member on a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor of ABU, Prof. Adamu Ahmed.
He said:”The visit was to brief the university leadership on the forthcoming event and the construction of a commemorative monument to immortalise past deans who contributed to shaping the legacy of FASS.
“During the engagement, the ISAA team met with key university figures, including the Deans of the Faculties of Arts and Social Sciences, as well as the Head of the Department of Political Science and International Studies. The meetings focused on ensuring smooth planning for the August symposium, which will take place at the ABU Centre for Excellence Auditorium in Samaru.
“Ambassador Kaita congratulated the new Vice Chancellor on his appointment and reaffirmed the alumni association’s commitment to promoting academic excellence and celebrating the university’s heritage. He also disclosed that Prof. Ahmed would serve as Chief Host at the one-day event.
“Prominent dignitaries expected at the occasion include former Minister of National Planning, Dr. Shamsudeen Usman, as Chairman; Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, former Chief of Staff to the President, as Special Guest of Honour.and Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, as Royal Father of the Day.
Prof. Shedrack Best, Vice Chancellor of Plateau State University, as Guest Speaker. Past and present members of the academic community will engage in a symposium to reflect on the faculty’s enduring contributions to national development, he further disclosed.
He said that Prof. Ahmed, in his response, lauded the association for its initiatives and pledged full support to all ISAA activities that contribute to the growth of ABU.
The visit ended with an inspection of key venues, including the proposed monument site in front of the former FASS administrative building, the auditorium, and accommodation facilities on campus.
The alumni delegation include National Secretary-General Alhaji Kabir Hussain, National PRO Alhaji Abdullahi Shuaibu, Prof. Kayode Omojuwa (ex-officio and department lecturer), Prof. Raihanatu Lawal (BoT member), and Dr. Tafida Lawal, current Head of Department.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
