The University of Abuja (UniAbuja), outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, has pleaded with staff and students to unconditionally support the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Aisha Maikudi for the continuous growth of the institution.
Na’Allah, who was the sixth vice chancellor of the university made the appeal at the official handing over to the Acting Vice-Chancellor, on Monday in Abuja.
The outgoing VC said he would continue to do everything within his power to support the university.
He called on management and staff to double their efforts as they work with the acting vice-chancellor.
“I will continue to do everything I can even from outside to support the university in whatever way I can, especially with prayers.
“I plead with everyone to double the effort and support they have given me in supporting the acting vice-chancellor.
“Continue to work with sincerity, genuineness, dedication and total loyalty.
“If you give loyalty to the vice-chancellor or management you are not doing it for them but you are doing it for the university.
“Don’t ever think that your royalty to the vice-chancellor is about him or her but for the university because without it there will be problem,” he said.
He prayed that God would continue to strengthen, protect and give the acting vice-chancellor the clarity to pilot the affairs of the university.
In her remark, Maikudi said she would build upon the outstanding work of her predecessor, whose leadership had guided the institution through many significant milestones.
She said that the tireless dedication and unwavering commitment of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor to the university had laid a solid foundation for them to build upon, which they were deeply grateful for.
“Our university is a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and community engagement.
“Each member of our academic family from faculty, staff to students and alumni plays an essential role in sustaining and enhancing our mission.
“Together, we have cultivated an environment that fosters intellectual growth, creative exploration, and the pursuit of excellence,” she said.
Maikudi said that the 10th governing council of the university would be inaugurated on July 4.
“I believe that this development will bring an end to the impasse we have been experiencing.
“With the governing council in place, I am confident that we will soon see a return to normalcy, allowing us to focus on our primary mission of education and research,” she said.
The acting vice-chancellor said she was committed to upholding the values that defined the university as they embarked on the new chapter.
She said that some of her priorities includes; academic excellence, research and innovation, student success, staff welfare, community engagement, among others.
“I am deeply aware of the challenges we face but I am equally confident in our collective ability to overcome them.
“Our strength lies in our unity and our shared dedication to the principles of education and research.
“I encourage each of you to continue to bring your passion, ideas, and energy to our university, as we navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead,” Maikudi said.