Yakubu Gowon University Matriculates 7,000 Students, Warns Against Cultism
Yakubu Gowon University Abuja (formerly UniAbuja) has officially matriculated over 7,000 students for the 2024/2025 academic session, welcoming them into its diverse academic programs.
At the matriculation ceremony on Thursday, the university’s immediate-past Vice Chancellor, Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi, addressed the new students, urging them to embrace hard work and discipline in order to thrive in their academic journey.
It was shortly after the event that President Bola Tinubu, the Visitor to the University, relieved Professor Maikudi of her position as Vice Chancellor.
In her speech, Professor Maikudi emphasized the university’s commitment to fostering a conducive learning environment and warned students against engaging in cultism, examination malpractice, squatting in hostels, and other misconduct.
“I commend your resilience in choosing the University of Abuja as your first choice and successfully gaining admission to this esteemed institution, considering that over 38,000 applicants competed for 7,794 available spots,” she stated. “By putting in the necessary effort and maintaining discipline, you will not regret your decision to study here.”
Maikudi also reminded students that the matriculation ceremony marked the beginning of an important academic chapter in their lives, urging parents to stay involved in monitoring both the academic progress and moral conduct of their children during their time at the university.
She encouraged students to familiarize themselves with the university’s rules and regulations, stressing that ignorance would not be accepted as an excuse for violations. “The student handbook is there to guide you, and it will not be acceptable to claim ignorance when it comes to infractions,” she added.
Furthermore, Maikudi urged students to foster unity and mutual respect, regardless of their different backgrounds. “Our university community is a true reflection of the Nigerian Federation, with representation from all parts of the country. It’s vital that we promote unity and avoid divisive actions along religious, ethnic, or other lines.”
The new students took their matriculation oath, administered by the Acting Registrar of the university, Islamiyat Abdul-Rahim.
The ceremony marked Professor Maikudi’s first and last matriculation as Vice Chancellor, having been appointed just over a month ago.
