The Governing Council of Bauchi State University, Gadau, has officially ratified the institution’s name change to Sa’adu Zungur University, Gadau, in honour of the late Nigerian nationalist and politician, Sa’adu Zungur.
The decision follows Governor Bala Mohammed’s signing of the bill that initiated the renaming process.
The university spokesperson, Auwal Hassan, said in a statement that the chairman of the Governing Council of the University, Professor Ango Abdullahi, led the council meeting on Thursday to officially ratify and implement the decision to start using Sa’adu Zungur University, SAZU, as the new name of the institution.
The council members said the development signified a milestone in the university’s history.
According to the statement, the governing council expressed its full support for the renaming of the university, emphasising the importance of honouring the memory of individuals who have played pivotal roles in shaping the history and identity of the nation.
The statement added that the initiative to rename the university after Sa’adu Zungur has been widely commended by various stakeholders, including faculty members, alumni, and the general public.
Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Fatimah Tahir, said the decision to rename the university after Sa’adu Zungur serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the nationalist and his enduring impact on the educational landscape of Bauchi State.
“The Council is, however, committed to ensuring a smooth transition process and implementing the necessary changes to reflect the new name of the university. The university community is encouraged to embrace this historic decision with pride and a renewed sense of purpose.
“The Council therefore seeks to celebrate the contributions of Sa’adu Zungur and inspire the university community to uphold the values of integrity, leadership, and service that he exemplified.
“The decision to rename Bauchi State University to Sa’adu Zungur University reflects the institution’s commitment to honouring Nigeria’s heritage, promoting national unity, and fostering a spirit of excellence among its students, faculty, and staff,” the statement reads further.