By Idris Umar, Zaria
Senator Simon Bako Lalong says alumni associations are not only beneficiaries of education but also major nation-builders who play an important role in strengthening national unity and development.
He stated this in a speech he presented at the 18th Pre-Annual General Meeting Lecture of the ABU Alumni Association for the year 2025, held at the university’s auditorium.
The Senator, who is the former Governor of Plateau State, said that through their networks, expertise, and influence, alumni help to strengthen institutions, mentor young people, promote national cohesion, and support economic development.
According to him, when alumni embrace their roles as leaders, innovators, and ambassadors of unity, graduates of major institutions like Ahmadu Bello University can champion peace, national unity, and sustainable development.
Senator (Dr.) Bako Lalong added that the legacy left by universities like ABU continues to influence education, social life, and public morals in Nigeria, and it is the responsibility of alumni to ensure that this legacy becomes a foundation for positive transformation in the country.
He therefore called for greater commitment toward building a united, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria—one in which education remains the pillar of national progress.
Dr. Lalong further stated that Nigeria’s development depends on the responsibility of citizens to promote unity, progress, and good governance.
He said alumni associations hold a special position that can influence national transformation through their unity, expertise, and significant societal impact.
By harnessing their collective experience, alumni can help strengthen social cohesion and promote sustainable development.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the event and Minister of Defence, Alhaji Badaru Abubakar, said the gathering felt like returning home and expressed gratitude for the warm reception.
The Minister stated that the current government is working tirelessly to ensure the safety of lives and property in Nigeria.
According to him, the Nigerian Armed Forces have recorded many successes in the fight against criminal activities across the country.
He said that many areas once troubled by Boko Haram, kidnappers, bandits, and other criminals have now been cleared, and normal life is returning.
The Minister assured Nigerians that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration will continue to achieve success in addressing the nation’s security challenges.
In his own remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Professor Ahmed Adamu, said the university’s alumni are valuable and dedicated individuals, adding that both the government and the university community are proud of them for standing by the institution.
Earlier in his welcome address, the National President of the ABU Alumni Association, Malam Adamu Mamma Kontagora (Barden Kontagora), expressed gratitude for the successful organization of the Pre-AGM Lecture.
He said the presence of high-ranking officials such as the Minister of Defence, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, and the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, was a great honor considering their busy schedules.
He welcomed all alumni to the 2025 Annual General Meeting.
The event was conducted peacefully and ended peacefully.
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