ATBU alumni reject bill seeking conversion of university to conventional status
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) National Alumni Association has strongly opposed the proposed Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (Establishment) Act (Amendment) Bill 2025, currently before the National Assembly, which seeks to convert the university from a specialized University of Technology to a conventional one.
This is contained in a statement signed by its National President, Mohammed Sani Wada Gimban Katagun,
The alumni expressed deep concern that the proposed amendment would undermine the vision and purpose for which ATBU and other Universities of Technology were founded to drive technological advancement, industrial growth, and national development through science, engineering, and innovation.
The association recalled that Nigeria’s Universities of Technology were established to promote technological self-reliance, develop high-level manpower, focus on research and development, enhance national unity, and provide graduates with practical, industry-oriented skills.
It noted that these goals remain crucial in addressing the country’s developmental challenges.
“It will be ironic that at a time when both federal and state governments are establishing specialized universities in fields like technology, health, and agriculture, ATBU which has excelled as a University of Technology is being considered for conversion to a conventional institution,” the statement said.
The alumni association called on the Senate Committee handling the bill to suspend further deliberation pending broader consultations with the university’s governing council, management, staff unions, and other stakeholders.
It further urged the Federal Government, National Universities Commission (NUC), and education stakeholders to reaffirm ATBU’s mandate as a University of Technology and strengthen support for technological education in Nigeria.
