Two years of Governor Lawal in Zamfara prove that change is possible — ABU VC

The Sun

The Vice Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, Prof Adamu Ahmed, says the consistent goodwill of Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State towards the university reflects his abiding respect for his alma mater.

He said Lawal’s tremendous support for ABU became a reference point for how every alumnus should relate with his or her alma mater with gratitude, generosity, and purpose.

Governor Dauda Lawal is an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he had both BSc and MSc all in Political Science in 1988 and 1991 respectively.

The VC spoke when he led a delegation from the institution on a courtesy visit to the governor in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital, on Friday, 31 October 2025.

Prof Ahmed noted that Lawal had continued to demonstrate that true loyalty to one’s alma mater was not measured by words but by genuine commitment and tangible contributions.

“We are deeply grateful, not only for this warm reception, but also for your numerous and unsolicited acts of support to Ahmadu Bello University,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor also stated that Governor Lawal’s gesture, as always, reflected his deep humility, openness, and abiding respect for the university that helped shape his remarkable leadership journey.

Ahmed declared that a new Zamfara with hope, progress, and prosperity was emerging under Gov Lawal’s stewardship.

“Your Excellency, Zamfara has often been described as a ‘state of missed opportunities,’ just as our dear country, Nigeria, has at times appeared as a nation of unfulfilled dreams.

“But your administration’s strides in the last two years — your courage, vision, and focused leadership — stand as a powerful affirmation that change is possible,” he stated.

The Vice Chancellor expressed confidence that the foundation the governor was laying would reposition the state as a beacon of development and peace in northern Nigeria and beyond.

The university, according to him, took immense pride in his accomplishments and prayed for his continued success in steering the affairs of the state.

He assured the governor of ABU’s readiness to support his government in any way he might so desire, be it in the areas of education, research, policy formulation, or technical partnership.

“As your alma mater, our doors remain open, and our intellectual resources available, to complement your efforts in driving the development agenda of Zamfara State,” he said.

Responding, Governor Lawal expressed gratitude to the VC and members of his entourage for the visit, saying he would continue to tap into ABU expertise in developing the state.

He described the Vice Chancellor’s remarks as encouraging, which, according to him, would spur him to do more for the good people of Zamfara State and humanity.

Lawal pointed out that he was fully aware of ABU’s numerous challenges and urged the university to count on his unwavering support towards addressing such challenges.