My vision for ABU Postgraduate College, by Provost
The Provost, Postgraduate College, Ahmadu Bello University, Prof Oluyinka O Okubanjo, says his vision is to transform the college into a globally competitive centre of excellence.
Prof Okubanjo told PRC Beacon in an interview that the vision aimed to position ABU as a leading research institution in Africa.
PRC Beacon is a new publication by Postgraduate Representative Council that seeks to “illuminate the voices, ideas, and research of the brilliant minds” within ABU postgraduate community.
The Provost was Deputy Dean of ABU School of Postgraduate Studies (SPGS) before it was now upgraded to Postgraduate College.
Okubanjo, a Professor of Veterinary Parasitology, was of the belief the strength of any university depended largely on its postgraduate system.
He said addressing funding issues, supervision delays, and administrative bottlenecks to strengthen the system was both an academic and institutional necessity.
According to him, his focus would remain on academic excellence by ensuring curriculum review, supervisor training, and strict adherence to quality standards.
He said the focus would also be on research visibility through encouraging high-impact publications, research clinics, and a postgraduate research fund.
His job would equally be focused on digital transformation and partnerships to strengthen collaborations with global institutions, industry, and research agencies, he further said.
Prof Okubanjo explained that he would give priority to student support by establishing welfare desks, mentorship networks, and expanding scholarships.
“Also, the college is improving infrastructure, laboratories, and access to digital resources; and with institutional support, we aim to reposition ABU as a leading postgraduate and research institution”, he also said.
He explained that through the use of technology and data-driven management to improve efficiency the postgraduate college was gradually embracing digital tools for admissions, results processing, and correspondence.
This, according to him, reduced delays and gave time for strategic engagement with policy and academic development.
The provost stressed that his motivation came from a deep sense of responsibility, empathy, and commitment to the ideals of Ahmadu Bello University.
Prof Okubanjo urged students to stay focused, uphold integrity, and seek mentorship as the postgraduate journey required discipline and perseverance.
The provost appreciated all staff of the college for their dedication and urged them for continued professionalism, empathy, and transparency.
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Public Affairs Directorate,
Office of the Vice-Chancellor,
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (NEWS/NAM)
Thursday, 1st January, 2026
