Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja recently received and welcomed new students at to the 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony at the the University now known as Yakubu Gowon University.
The over excited 8th Vice-Chancellor of this great institution presided over this important academic ceremony and formally admit the new set of students into the academic community. He explained that the matriculation is a cherished academic tradition. It marks a formal induction into the University community and signifies students acceptance into a body of scholars.
"As we induct you today, we reaffirm the historic mandate of the University of Abuja to bring together young, vibrant minds from across the nation, strengthen the ties of national unity, and promote intellectual development through teaching, research and service to humanity" Fawehinmi said.
"Dear matriculating students, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you on the successful commencement of this important journey in your academic lives. For the 2025/2026 Academic Session, over 30,000 candidates applied for admission into the University of Abuja. However, due to capacity constraints and our commitment to maintaining quality, we were able to admit only over 8,000 students across our faculties" He emphasized.
Fawehinmi explained that the admission from this highly competitive pool is both a privilege and an achievement. That the students were selected because they met the requirements and demonstrated the character, capacity and potential to excel in this intellectually stimulating environment.
"You have made your parents and guardians proud, and we share in that pride as a University community. Since my assumption of office as Vice-Chancellor, deliberate efforts have been made to reposition the University to better serve your academic and personal development needs. We are strengthening strategic partnerships, including collaboration with Galaxy Backbone, to enhance our ICT infrastructure and significantly improve internet access for teaching, learning and research" He explained.
Fawehinmi explained the that although hostel accommodation remains a challenge as the University continues to attract increasing numbers of applicants, that they are working with relevant agencies, including TETFund, and exploring public-private partnership initiatives to provide additional and improved hostel facilities. Existing facilities are being maintained, and the security of students remains paramount to this administration.
"As your Academic Father, my commitment, and that of the entire University, is to support and guide you throughout this journey. We shall provide opportunities, facilities and mentorship to enable your talents to flourish and your aspirations to be realised. However, while the institution will create an enabling environment, your success will ultimately depend on your discipline, determination and commitment to excellence. From today, you have become an integral part of this University, and your conduct will henceforth be subject to public scrutiny. You are therefore expected to conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of this reputable institution of higher learning" Fawehinmi said.
The Vice-Chancellor made it clear to students that the University has zero tolerance for acts of indiscipline, including cultism, examination misconduct, sexual harassment, drug abuse, unruly behaviour and other forms of antisocial conduct. Ignorance of the rules will not be accepted as an excuse.
He then admonished the students to respect and honour their Matriculation oath at all times and remain law-abiding, as violators of the University’s regulations will be appropriately sanctioned. He then reminded them that the certificate they will earn at the end of their programme is based on character and learning, with character coming before learning.
"Dear students, you are drawn from diverse social, cultural and educational backgrounds, reflecting the richness of our nation. This diversity is one of our greatest strengths. You represent our collective hope for the future, and we are honoured to have you as members of this community. You will learn a lot from cultivating a culture of collaboration, mutual respect and discipline. The academic environment is characterised by orderliness, intellectual curiosity and healthy debate. I urge you to make wise decisions, choose your associations carefully, engage meaningfully with your lecturers and mentors, and make full use of the academic, counselling, health and welfare services provided to support your growth. Let technology serve as a tool for learning and innovation rather than a distraction. Success in any sphere of human endeavour is achieved through diligence, perseverance and integrity. Our University is driven by a vision of academic excellence, innovation and relevance. We are proud to have a dedicated team of experienced professionals across diverse disciplines committed to your success and wellbeing through quality teaching, impactful research and comprehensive student support services" He said.
He then explained that the staff of the University, both teaching and non-teaching, are not only educators but also mentors and guardians, committed to guiding all students both morally and academically. Then urged old students to continue serving as role models to the matriculating students, treating them with respect, fairness and compassion as they continue to impart knowledge, values and discipline so that they may become responsible individuals who positively impact society and bring honour to their families and the nation.
"Let me turn to our esteemed parents and guardians, whom we respect and express our sincere appreciation for entrusting your children and wards to our care. We assure that your wards are safe in our hands. Do know that our doors are open to share any thoughts and ideas with us that can help make your wards better fulfil their ambition and become better persons in life. Dear students, as you begin this new chapter, see yourselves as ambassadors of the University. Let your words and actions reflect wisdom, discipline and integrity. Approach your studies with determination and enthusiasm, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. The future belongs to those who are willing to work diligently to turn their aspirations into reality" He explained.
Fawehinmi concluded by congratulating the new studentsyou on their successful admission. That they should remain focused, disciplined and committed throughout your stay in this University.