We are passionate about international students – ABU
The Vice-Chancellor, Ahmadu Bello University, Prof Adamu Ahmed, says the university is passionate about international students.
Prof Ahmed disclosed this at the International Students Day Celebration in collaboration with the Directorate of Advancement and International Education, Ahmadu Bello University.
The event, which took place today, Saturday, 11th October, 2025, was held at the Senate Chambers, Main Campus, Samaru, Zaria.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Advancement, Research and Innovation, Prof Sanusi Aliyu Rafindadi, the Vice-Chancellor said part of his agenda was internationalisation of its programmes.
Prof Ahmed also said internalization was evident in the restructuring of the Directorate of Advancements and International Education (DAIE).
He said the university had reached out to consulates and embassies of different countries to intimate them of its readiness to accommodate students from their respective countries.
According to him, the institution’s internalization agenda was now focused on Africa.
The Vice-Chancellor reiterated that the university saw international students as another strength of diversity, so as to learn from different cultures and build networks.
Prof Ahmed urged the students to encourage their friends and family to come to ABU, as the university was ready to accommodate their needs.
Earlier in a welcome address, the Director, Directorate of Advancement and International Education, Prof M I Umar-Buratai, congratulated the students for celebrating diverse cultures under the banner of the International Students Association.
Prof Buratai said ABU was more than a Nigerian university, rather a family of international ideas, which remained a symbol of unity in diversity.
The Director explained that the university was taking steps to deepen engagements with institutions and nations of the world.
He said the Directorate was strengthening relationships with alumni, donors and friends of the university.
Prof Buratai emphasized that the vision was clear to ensure that every international student added value to the university development agenda.
Also speaking, the Dean Students Affairs Division, Prof Sahalu B Junaidu, explained that one of the goals of the Division was to look at the welfare of all students in all dimensions.
Prof Sahalu said the Division tried all they could to make the stay of all international students comfortable and memorable.
The Dean expressed optimism that their stay would further solidify the relationship between ABU and other African countries.
National President, High Council of Nigeriens Abroad, Nigeria Chapter, Alhadji Muhammadu Tasiu Kalgo, appreciated the Vice-Chancellor and University Management for the warm reception.
Represented by the National Vice President, Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim, the National President said Nigeria and Niger Republic are one, hence the need for all citizens to advocate for everlasting peace between the two nations.
On his part, patron of International Students Association, Prof M S Tekanyi Abdoulie, thanked the University Management for their unwavering support in providing care to international students and attending to their needs.
In a vote of thanks, the President, International Students Association, Salihou Moussa Idi, appreciated the Vice-Chancellor and the University Management for giving them the opportunity to study in the university.
Idi thanked the Director, Directorate of Advancement and International Education and the Dean, Students Affairs Division for their commitment and efforts in promoting global cultural understanding.
At the event, there were cultural display of different African countries and presentation of awards.
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Public Affairs Directorate,
Office of the Vice-Chancellor,
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (AHW)
Saturday, 11th October, 2025
