By Olivia Obijiaku
The Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, and the Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty, Igwe Prof. Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe has lauded the University for emerging as the Overall Prize Winner at the 2025 5th National Tertiary Admissions Performance – Merit Awards (NATAP-M), organized by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Taking the stand while delivering his Welcome Address at the University’s 45th Convocation, Saturday, January 31, 2026, the chancellor who is pleased with such recognition of the University’s broad national and international outreach in admissions, also urged “the University’s Management to sustain and surpass the feat.”
“I am pleased to share that Ahmadu Bello University continues to progress on the visionary pathway set by its founders. It has gained notable recognition both nationally and internationally. In this context, I congratulate the Council, Senate, Management, State and Students on the University’s emergence as the Overall Prize winner. I extend my congratulations to our graduates, along with their parents and guardians, on this special occasion of your graduation ceremony.”
Igwe Achebe congratulated the Honorary Graduand, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, GCON, on the approval of the awards of the Honorary Degree of the University, asserting that the awardee has shown that, “solid education is the best foundation for career success and pride”, disclosing that, “Her academic path has greatly contributed to her long efforts to improve the world for humanity.”
He expressed hope that the icon will always proudly represent the University’s values; continue to serve as an inspiring role model for young men and women around the world, and support the University’s mission whenever possible.
Commending the University’s Governing Council, led by Alhaji Mahmud Yayale Ahmed, CFR, as Pro-Chancellor and Chair, the Chancellor affirmed that the University is fortunate to have the distinguished Council, headed by one of its most prominent alumni, who has most diligently served Nigeria in many roles. He urged all members of the University community to support the Governing Council and other University authority fully, so as to enable them to steer the University’s affairs towards greater achievements.
