By Abdulyekeen, Rilwan
As the Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA) in Katsina State celebrated its 9th Convocation ceremony, it wasn’t just a moment of recognition for the graduating students. The event showcased a greater achievement: a university under transformation, shaped by the ambitious vision and steadfast leadership of Vice Chancellor Professor Armayau Hamisu Bichi, OON. His tenure has been marked by remarkable growth, with large-scale construction projects redefining the campus, making FUDMA a symbol of progress and resilience in the face of challenges.
Bichi have been doing this from his days as Dean Faculty of Agriculture, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Acting Vice Chancellor and as Substantive Vice Chancellor of Federal University Dutsin-ma, Nigeria.
The presence of Senators, House of Representives, Well wishers and the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on Students Engagement Hon. Comr. Sunday Asefon underscored the federal government’s commitment to the university’s success. This notable support, combined with the dedication of Professor Bichi and his administration, reflects a focus on securing FUDMA’s future as a prominent educational institution despite the security hurdles that affect the region. For FUDMA, the journey forward is clear: to build, innovate, and strengthen the academic experience for its students and faculty, unlike it peer’s, FUDMA is no longer Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan GEJ Baby University ” as been called “. It has distinguished itself among the GEJ Universities.
In the past, FUDMA was celebrated for its academic rigor and dedication to ICT, Agriculture and community development. Today, however, under Professor Bichi’s dynamic leadership, it has evolved into an institution defined by physical and academic expansion. Walking through FUDMA’s permanent site, one is immediately struck by the scale of construction. The campus has effectively become a massive construction zone, buzzing with activity as new infrastructure takes shape. In fact, five new buildings have recently been commissioned, each carefully planned to enhance the educational experience and create a modern, supportive learning environment.
These new structures represent more than just buildings; they are symbols of a university preparing itself to meet the future head-on. From advanced lecture halls to purpose-built faculty offices and administration centers, these facilities will provide students and staff with spaces designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and excellence. For a university that is relatively young
(12 Years ) , FUDMA’s rapid infrastructural growth stands as a testament to the determined efforts of its leadership to establish a high-standard learning institution that can attract students from across Nigeria and beyond.
Despite the impressive progress in infrastructure, the university’s permanent site remains underutilized due to the complex security situation in the region. The area’s ongoing security challenges have necessitated a thoughtful and pragmatic approach from the administration. Yet, rather than seeing these obstacles as deterrents, Professor Bichi and his team are using them as opportunities to demonstrate resilience and proactive leadership.
Recognizing the need for security to make FUDMA’s growth sustainable, the SSA to the President on Students Engagement has formally requested that the Minister of Defence establish a security guard center adjacent to the university. This would provide critical assurance not only for the campus but also for the wider community in Dutsin-Ma and Dan-Musa Local Government , Such a center would offer a layer of safety and stability that is essential for academic activities to thrive. The proposed security guard center is a forward-thinking solution to a complex issue, and it reflects the administration’s understanding of the importance of a secure learning environment, I say a very big thank you to Hon. Comr. Sunday Asefon and his Team.
This initiative sends a strong message that FUDMA is not only concerned with academic achievements but is also invested in the safety and well-being of its students, staff, and the surrounding community. By taking proactive steps to address security concerns, Professor Bichi and the university’s administration are demonstrating that they are willing to go to any length to ensure that FUDMA fulfills its potential as a premier academic institution.
The remarkable transformation of FUDMA would not have been possible without the inspiring and determined leadership of Vice Chancellor Professor Armayau Hamisu Bichi. Since assuming office, Professor Bichi has approached his role with a vision that goes beyond the status quo. His dedication to raising FUDMA’s profile as a leading institution in Nigeria has been the driving force behind the university’s growth and development. His administration has tackled the challenges of security, infrastructure, and funding with a clear strategy and a resolve to make FUDMA a university of choice.
Professor Bichi’s ability to mobilize resources and foster partnerships has earned him a reputation not only within FUDMA but also at state and national levels.
This is why the Katsina State Emirate under the leadership of HRH Abdulmumuni Kabir awarded him as Wazirin Mallaman Katsina ” Head of Teachers of Katsina Emirate ” The immediate past President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria awarded Prof. Bichi with a National
Honour, As Order of the Niger ( OON ) .
Prof. Bichi influence extends beyond physical construction; it shapes the culture and direction of the university. Under his guidance, FUDMA has embraced a forward-thinking approach to education, prioritizing quality, inclusivity, and resilience.
The endorsement and support from the SSA to the President underscore the high regard in which Professor Bichi is held by both local and national authorities. His leadership embodies the values of integrity, dedication, and ambition—qualities that resonate with FUDMA’s mission to become a beacon of learning and innovation. His vision is gradually transforming the institution, with every new building and every new initiative bringing the university closer to its goal of excellence, FUDMA Now has 14 Faculties with over 60 Academic Programmes , College of Health, Engineering, Law , Renewable Energy, Earth and Environmental, Computing and many more, The School of Continuing and Professional Education currently Offers more than 40 Academic Programs across Different Learning Centers in Nigeria , The School of Postgraduate Studies is not left behind , The school currently offer more than 50 Programmes both at PGD , M.Sc and PhD
As the Federal University Dutsin-Ma continues to grow, it is poised to become a key player in Nigeria’s educational landscape. The ongoing development projects signal a commitment to meeting the needs of students and faculty alike, ensuring that FUDMA remains competitive in an increasingly globalized academic environment. The infrastructure expansion is not just about creating buildings; it is about creating a foundation for future generations to thrive.
FUDMA’s growth is also a reminder of the critical role universities play in their communities. With the establishment of a security outpost, the university will not only safeguard its campus but also contribute to the safety and stability of the region. This initiative could serve as a model for other institutions facing similar challenges, showcasing how universities can take an active role in addressing security issues in collaboration with government agencies.
The Federal University Dutsin-Ma stands as a work in progress—an institution that is actively shaping its destiny with each new development. Under the able leadership of Professor Armayau Hamisu Bichi, FUDMA is not just a place of learning; it is a symbol of hope and resilience, a testament to what can be achieved when vision meets dedication. As new buildings rise and security measures take shape, the university is forging a path forward, one that reflects a commitment to both academic excellence and communityy well-being.
With the support of government stakeholders like the, Senate President and Deputy, SSA to the President, Senators , And Members of House of Representives, FUDMA’s progress is assured. The challenges of today are being met with innovative solutions, laying a foundation for a brighter future for the university and the community it serves. In a nation that values education as a tool for growth and transformation, FUDMA’s journey is anh inspiring example of how dedication and leadership can drive meaningful change.
For FUDMA, the future is bright, and the possibilities are endless. This university is not only growing—it is becoming a force for good, a beacon of hope, and a pillar of strength for the people of Nigeria.
Prayers: Call on The President and Commander in Chief to Assist in Sitting a Permanent Joint Military Base at Dutsin-ma, Katsina State for the Continuation of Academic Activities in the University Permanent Site.
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Abdulyekeen, Rilwan
