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From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Phoenix University, Agwada, Nasarawa State, celebrated two significant milestones on Monday, 25 November 2024, with the investiture of its Chancellor, Dr Muhammadu Indimi and the matriculation of 260 pioneer students.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, 21 November 2024, ahead of the dual ceremonies, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Abdullahi Bala, expressed pride in the progress made by the institution since its inception. He highlighted the events as a “convergence of firsts,” noting that the university had commenced academic activities and admitted its pioneer batch of students.
“The matriculation of our first set of students and the investiture of our Chancellor mark a major inflection point in the life of this university,” Bala stated. He revealed that, out of 342 applicants, 260 students met the admission criteria for the 2024/2025 academic session, and lectures had since begun.
The Vice-Chancellor also announced the conferment of an honorary degree, Doctor of Humane Letters (Honoris Causa), on Dr Indimi, recognising his distinguished contributions to business, education, and philanthropy. “Dr Indimi’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming an accomplished international businessman and philanthropist is an inspiration to many,” Bala said.
Dr Indimi, the Founder and CEO of Global Energy Resources Limited, was lauded for his civic contributions and dedication to humanity. “It is befitting that such a man of immense stature becomes the first recipient of a degree from Phoenix University,” Bala added.
Since its inaugural briefing in December 2023, Phoenix University has achieved several milestones, including relocating its operations from Keffi to the Agwada campus. This transition enabled the university to provide office and residential accommodations for staff and to enhance the campus environment.
“We have embarked on a greening project and installed solar panels on buildings and boreholes as part of our green initiatives,” Bala explained. He also announced the commissioning of the campus mosque on 15 November 2024.
Prof. Bala expressed gratitude to stakeholders who have supported the institution, including the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, for his contributions to the university’s development.
“His Excellency facilitated the reconstruction of the Kokona Junction-Agwada Road, provided scholarships for 92 students, and supported the completion of our Sports Complex,” Bala said.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasised the university’s commitment to strong governance, noting the inauguration of the Board of Trustees (BoT) and Governing Council earlier this year. The BoT, led by the university’s Founder and Visitor, Senator (Dr) Abdullahi Adamu, includes distinguished academics, technocrats, and traditional leaders. The Governing Council, chaired by former Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, has held three meetings since its inauguration.
“Given the star-studded composition of these organs, Phoenix University Agwada is bound for the stars,” Bala declared.
The matriculation and investiture ceremonies, scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. on Monday, will see the pioneer students officially administered their matriculation oaths. Bala expressed optimism about the future, stating, “Our students have shown remarkable discipline and a sense of community. We are confident they will contribute positively to the university’s legacy.”
Prof. Bala further thanked staff, students, and the media for their unwavering support. “Your steadfastness as partners in this journey inspires us to continue marching forward for the benefit of humanity and to the glory of God,” he said.
