New Jigawa varsity VC assumes office, unveils vision for excellence

The newly inaugurated Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Dutse, Professor Ahmad Gumel, has vowed to transform the institution into Nigeria’s premier hub for research-driven solutions and a center of excellence.

PUNCH Online recalled that on December 14, 2025, the Governing Council of the Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State, approved the appointment of Prof. Gumel as the institution’s fourth substantive Vice-Chancellor.

It was also recalled that the Chairman of the council, Prof. Shu’aibu Abdulrahim, while announcing the appointment, then said the approval was granted at an extraordinary meeting of the council, and highlighted that “The selection followed a rigorous and meticulous process in which 21 applicants were shortlisted and interviewed, yet Gumel emerged.”

Speaking during his inauguration held on Tuesday at the Muhammad Nuhu Sanusi Auditorium of the University, Professor Gumel expressed gratitude to the university community for their support and acknowledged the immense responsibilities that come with the office.

“I stand before you today profoundly humbled by the support of the university community and fully cognizant of the immense responsibilities this office demands,” he said.

Professor Gumel, the 4th substantive Vice Chancellor of FUD, outlined his vision for the university, which includes academic excellence, research and innovation, digital transformation, student welfare and empowerment, staff welfare and development, infrastructure expansion, financial sustainability, global partnerships, university and community engagement, governance and accountability, and environmental stewardship.

He also presented an 11-Point Strategic Development Agenda, which includes revising and modernising curricula, establishing an Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialisation (ORIC), improving ICT facilities, enhancing student welfare, prioritising staff promotions, and leveraging interventions by TETFund and other agencies.

Professor Gumel assured the university community that he has a definitive roadmap to achieve the university’s objectives and will present a comprehensive 5-year Strategic Plan to the Governing Council for approval shortly.