UniAbuja (Yakubu Gowon University) to Graduate 12,624 Students at Combined Convocation
The Vice-Chancellor of University of Abuja, now Yakubu Gowon University, Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, has announced that a total of 12,624 students will graduate during the institution’s 29th and 30th combined convocation ceremonies.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, the Vice-Chancellor described the event as a milestone, noting it is his first convocation since assuming office.
The ceremonies, which commenced on April 10, will run through April 18, 2026, featuring a range of activities including a Juma’at prayer, interdenominational church service, innovation showcase, drug awareness lecture, climate change discussions, and a convocation lecture focused on artificial intelligence in fintech.
According to Fawehinmi, 7,158 students will graduate from the 2022/2023 academic session, while 5,466 students will graduate from the 2023/2024 session, bringing the total to 12,624 graduands.
He revealed that the university will also confer honorary doctorate degrees on distinguished Nigerians, including Yusuff Olaolu Ali, Paul Odili, and Emmanuel Ayuba Iza, in recognition of their contributions to society.
The main convocation ceremonies are scheduled for April 17 for first degrees and April 18 for higher degrees and honorary awards at the Convocation Square.
The Vice-Chancellor further disclosed that the overall best graduating students from both academic sessions will be offered automatic employment at the university as part of efforts to support academic excellence and career development.
Highlighting the institution’s growth, Fawehinmi noted that the university currently has nearly 40,000 students, with projections to reach 50,000 by 2030. He, however, stressed the urgent need for expanded infrastructure to match the rising student population.
Reflecting on past challenges, the VC acknowledged recent leadership crises but expressed optimism, stating that stability has now been restored through the intervention of government authorities and the university’s governing council.
He also outlined key achievements, including improved accreditation standards, major research funding—such as a ₦4 billion intervention for the College of Health Sciences—and advancements in medical research, particularly in cardiovascular and sickle cell studies.
On infrastructure, Fawehinmi listed ongoing developments such as new administrative buildings, a computer-based testing centre, upgraded laboratories, enhanced digital connectivity, and solar-powered staff quarters. Plans are also underway to deliver 1,500 additional student bed spaces through a public-private partnership.
He added that over 100 academic staff have recently been promoted to professorial rank—the highest in the institution’s history—while efforts continue to improve staff welfare, training, and student services.
UniAbuja (Yakubu Gowon University) to Graduate 12,624 Students at Combined Convocation