Shehu Buba Reaffirms Commitment to Education, Supports Al-Istigama Varsity
By Ahmed Ahmed
Sen. Shehu Buba Umar, representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting quality tertiary education and human capital development in Northern Nigeria.
Umar, who is also the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) governorship candidate in Bauchi State, stated this while attending the combined 2nd and 3rd Convocation Ceremony of Al-Istigama University, Sumaila, Kano State.
This is contained in a statement issued on Sunday in Bauchi by Comrade Mohammed Sabo, his Special Adviser on Media and Communication.
The senator commended the proprietor of the university, Sen. Abdulrahman Suleiman Kawu Sumaila, for establishing the institution in his hometown and creating opportunities for young people, particularly those from rural communities, to access tertiary education closer to home.
He said institutions such as Al-Istigama University could help reduce rural-urban migration by creating educational and economic opportunities within rural communities while expanding access to affordable higher education.
Umar appreciated the university management for its partnership with his constituency, particularly the provision of 10 scholarship/admission slots for his constituents since the 2024/2025 academic session.
He also commended Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State for prioritising education and supporting students pursuing higher education within Nigeria and abroad.
The senator further applauded the reported sponsorship of 100 science-based students by the Kano Government to study at Al-Istigama University.
Umar urged governments across Northern Nigeria to give greater attention to education, particularly science and technology, to equip young people with relevant knowledge and skills for economic and social development.
He commended the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abdullahi Sule Kumurya, for providing academic leadership and sustaining the institution’s commitment to scholarship, discipline, character development and responsible citizenship.
The senator also congratulated the graduates, urging them to uphold integrity, become good ambassadors of the institution and use their knowledge to contribute meaningfully to society.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the posthumous conferment of an honorary doctorate degree in recognition of the recipient’s contributions to humanity and societal development.
Umar congratulated the university management, graduates, parents, academic staff and other stakeholders on the successful convocation.
