His Royal Majesty,Dr.. Saidu Akawu Salihu,the Ohimege-Igu of Kotonkatfe.
The Ohimege-Igu of Koton-Karfe, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Saidu Akawu Saliu,has urged Nigerians across ethnic, religious, and social divides to uphold the principle of unity in diversity, which he described as the defining philosophy of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.
The President World Wide ABU Alumni Association,Mal.Adanu Mamman Kotangora.
The first-class monarch gave the charge on Saturday at the Gala Night and Award Ceremony organized by the Kogi State branch of the ABU Alumni Association, held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Lokoja.
The chairman, ABU Alumni Association Kogi State branch,Engr.Mohammed Sagir.
The gathering.
According to him, ABU remains Nigeria’s most cosmopolitan university, embodying the spirit of inclusiveness and togetherness.
“I can proudly say that ABU, Zaria, is the most cosmopolitan university in Nigeria. Though located in Zaria, when you analyze its population, you will find that the Hausa are actually in the minority. That is the unique story of ABU,it brings people together beyond ethnic boundaries,” he said.
The Secretary General of the association, Dr.Danjuma Mahmud, receiving present from the Ohimege-Igu of Kotonkatfe Dr Saidu Akawu Saliu.
Dr. Saliu emphasized that Nigeria, and Kogi State in particular, must draw inspiration from this philosophy to strengthen peaceful coexistence and promote development.
“Kogi is multi-ethnic and multi-tribal. Our strength lies in diversity. This spirit of unity, which defines ABU, is exactly what Nigeria needs at this crucial moment,” he added.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by his Director General (Protocol) , Government House,Alhaji Suleiman Ibrahim, extended warm felicitations to the association on the occasion.
He noted with pride that nearly 50 percent of his team in government are graduates of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), and expressed gratitude to the institution for producing individuals who are contributing immensely to the reinvigoration of his administration.
While expressing regret for his inability to personally attend the event, Governor Ododo assured the association that he would receive its executive members upon his return to the state. He further pledged to explore areas of partnership where his administration could support the association’s objectives.
In his goodwill message, the President of the ABU Alumni Association Worldwide, Malam Adamu Mamman Kontagora, condoled with Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo over the recent passing of his father, Alhaji Ahmed Momoh Sani Ododo, describing the loss as colossal. He praised the Kogi branch of the association for its unwavering support during his election, noting that it remains one of the most vibrant and effective chapters in the country.
“ABU has the largest alumni network in Nigeria, and government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of university education. We must therefore rise to support our alma mater in tangible ways,” he said.
The Kogi State Chairman of the association, Engr. Mohammed Sagir, highlighted the significant contributions of ABU alumni to governance, education, security, and the economy of the state. He noted that the branch has produced high-ranking public officials, academics, entrepreneurs, and political leaders, including former Governor Yahaya Bello and the late Deputy Governor, Chief Patrick Adava.
“Our alumni family is deeply woven into the fabric of Kogi State. From government service to academia, security, and entrepreneurship, our members continue to shape development across the 21 local government areas. Our story is one of impact, capacity, and leadership nurtured in the lecture halls of ABU,” he said.
Sagir outlined future plans of the branch, including youth mentorship programmes, health initiatives, scholarships for indigent students, community projects, and the establishment of a permanent secretariat. He urged members to move from “ceremonial attendance” to active participation, stressing that the strength of the network lies in collective action.
Delivering a lecture titled “Ahmadu Bello University: Shaping the Future Through Exemplary Leadership,” Prof. Salihu Danlami Musa, Deputy Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, challenged alumni to use their influence to mentor younger generations and drive social impact.
“Every alumnus should mentor at least one young person annually and go beyond meetings to implement practical projects in scholarships, community service, health, or entrepreneurship. Awards are not an end but a call to deeper service,” he said.
Our correspondent reports that the event, which drew a large gathering of distinguished alumni, featured the recognition of members who have made outstanding contributions to society. Hon. Leke Abejide, a member of the House of Representatives, also donated ₦2 million in support of the association’s activities.
