UniAbuja deans,Natives, directors, others back Maikudi VC appointment

Senior officials of the University of Abuja, including Deans of Faculties, Heads of Departments, and Directors of Centers, have expressed their support for Professor Aisha Maikudi’s appointment as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university.

During a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor on Thursday in Abuja, the university officials applauded the appointment of 41-year-old Professor Maikudi, describing it as a perfect fit.

Speaking on behalf of the Dean of Faculties, the Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Prof. Abdulfatai Jimoh, ascribed her emergence to the will of God.

While insisting that the process that led to her eventual announcement followed due process, the Don pledged loyalty to the Vice-Chancellor, even as he prayed to God to protect and enrich her with wisdom.

Jimoh said: “We have 17 Deans, and we have nothing less than 14 Deans here. As your representatives in the various faculties, to pay this visit and solidarize with you and to tell the whole world is with you.”

The same sentiments were shared by the Director, Center for Distance Learning, Prof. Sadiq Abba; Head of Department, Food and Agric. Engineering, Ambasaador Mohammed Gana; Provost, College of Health Sciences, Prof. Titus Ibekwe among others.

They urged the new VC to foster a sense of unity and inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation in moving the institution forward.

According to them, by prioritizing reconciliation and unity, the Vice-Chancellor can create a positive, productive, and inclusive environment that benefits everyone and helps the institution thrive.

In her response, Professor Maikudi emphasised the importance of healing and reconciliation.

She made a solemn promise to work tirelessly to restore unity and trust, assuring the staff that she would not disappoint them.

Maikudi also extended an olive branch, seeking the support and cooperation of teaching and non-teaching staff.

She recognized that healing and progress would require a collective effort, and encouraged everyone to work together towards a common goal.

“I’m so happy and know that I can count on your support so that we can make our community to grow. Let’s work together to make this place a beacon of success. I’m open to advice,” she said.

President Bola Tinubu, on January 2, 2025, was petitioned by 43 Dons, seeking the dissolution of the Air Vice-Marshal Saddiq Ismaila Kaita (Rtd)-led Governing Council of the University of Abuja, citing manipulation of the selection process in favour of Prof. Maikudi, a claim denied by the council.