Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has called for stronger support from its numerous alumni and other stakeholders as it marks its 64th anniversary.

A statement issued by Auwalu Umar of the university’s Public Affairs Directorate said ABU was established on October 4, 1962, and is celebrating its 64th anniversary on Sunday.

The university was established following the recommendation of the Ashby Commission on Post-School Certificate and Higher Education in 1959 that a university be created in Zaria to serve the then Northern Region of Nigeria.

It was named after Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto and Premier of Northern Nigeria, who served as the university’s first Chancellor and performed its opening ceremony on October 4, 1962.

Speaking on the anniversary, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, said the institution had, since its establishment, made significant contributions to national, regional and global development.

Ahmed expressed appreciation to parents, guardians, alumni and other well-wishers for sustaining the enduring relationship between the university and the wider society it serves.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as far-reaching reforms and strategic interventions in the education sector, saying many of them had had a direct and positive impact on ABU.

The Vice-Chancellor thanked the university’s alumni, both individually and through organised groups, for their support to the institution in various ways.

He also expressed appreciation to the governors of Kaduna, Zamfara and Katsina states for their consistent engagement, support and commitment to addressing the university’s needs.

Ahmed acknowledged the guidance of the Emir of Zazzau and appreciated the support of the Minister of Education, the Chancellor, the Pro-Chancellor, members of the Governing Council and Senate, as well as the university’s staff and students.

He said ABU would continue to pursue its mission of contributing to national development and humanity, while calling for greater support from its alumni and other stakeholders.

The Vice-Chancellor said such support remained important to sustaining the university’s progress and strengthening its capacity to serve the nation and the global community.