By Abdulwahab MuhammadSenior Special Assistant on Communication to the Governor of Bauchi StateMarch 28, 2026
GADAU, BAUCHI — Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has challenged graduating students of Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU) to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship, declaring that a university degree should be seen as “an opportunity to prove one’s worth, not a guarantee of success.”The Governor made the remarks on Saturday while addressing the 8th, 9th and 10th Combined Convocation Ceremony of the university held at its Gadau campus.Over 12,000 Students Graduate Across Three SessionsThe combined convocation ceremony saw a total of:11,781 undergraduate students443 postgraduate studentsformally admitted to various degrees of the institution.The Governor also commended the university for producing 215 First Class graduates, describing the achievement as evidence of improving academic standards and institutional stability.“Behind every certificate awarded today lies a story of discipline, sacrifice, resilience and hope,” the Governor told the gathering.Education Remains Top Government PriorityReaffirming his administration’s commitment to human capital development, Governor Mohammed disclosed that Bauchi State has consistently allocated more than 15 percent of its annual budgets to education since 2019.He revealed that the 2026 budget projects over ₦112.7 billion for the education sector, with ₦58.02 billion earmarked specifically for higher education, including ₦40.6 billion for capital projects.According to him, the funding will support infrastructure expansion, academic programme accreditation, and improved learning facilities across all state-owned tertiary institutions.New Infrastructure Projects for Sa’adu Zungur UniversityAs part of the government’s ongoing support to the university, the Governor announced several new projects, including:Construction of 20 additional classroomsDevelopment of two new hostel blocks at Gadau and Yuli campusesConstruction of staff residential quartersPerimeter fencing of Gadau, Misau and Yuli campuses to enhance securityHe noted that these interventions build on previous government efforts such as road construction within the campus, improved scholarship payments, and regular salary payments to staff.“A stable university is a productive university, and a productive university is the foundation of a prosperous society,” he said.Zero Tolerance for Drug Abuse and Sexual HarassmentGovernor Mohammed also used the occasion to issue a strong warning against drug abuse, sexual harassment, and other forms of misconduct within tertiary institutions, stressing that his administration would not tolerate actions that undermine academic integrity.He emphasised that universities must remain safe spaces where students can pursue their education without fear of exploitation or intimidation.Plans to Establish College of Medical SciencesLooking ahead, the Governor disclosed that the state government is working towards establishing a College of Medical Sciences at Sa’adu Zungur University as part of broader efforts to expand professional and technical education in Bauchi State.He added that the government is strengthening partnerships with intervention agencies such as TETFund and NNPC Limited to improve research capacity and institutional development.Call for Graduates to Embrace InnovationAddressing the graduating students directly, Governor Mohammed urged them to focus on creativity, resilience and self-reliance as they transition into the labour market.“Do not limit yourselves to seeking employment. Become creators of opportunities, become innovators, and become solution providers,” he advised.He also encouraged them to uphold integrity, patience, and compassion in their personal and professional lives.Governor Commends Parents and University LeadershipThe Governor paid tribute to parents and guardians for their sacrifices in supporting their children’s education, describing them as silent partners in the success celebrated at the convocation.He also commended the Governing Council, management, and staff of the university for maintaining academic standards and restoring stability to the institution’s academic calendar.Education Beyond EmploymentIn his closing remarks, Governor Mohammed stressed that education should not be viewed solely as a means of earning a living but as a pathway to living a meaningful and impactful life.“Education is not merely about earning a living; it is about learning how to live a meaningful life and contributing to the progress of humanity,” he said.About the CeremonyThe combined convocation was organised to confer degrees and postgraduate qualifications on students who completed their studies across three academic sessions, marking one of the largest graduation ceremonies in the university’s history.Article DetailsEvent: 8th, 9th & 10th Combined Convocation CeremonyInstitution: Sa’adu Zungur University, GadauDate: March 28, 2026Speaker: Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, CONAuthorAbdulwahab MuhammadSenior Special Assistant on Communication to the Governor of Bauchi State
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