Senator Lalong delivers 18th ABU alumni lecture, harps on strengthening unity for national development

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By Anthony Maliki, Abuja

A former Governor of Plateau State and Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District, Simon Bako Lalong, has called for the optimisation of alumni networks as strategic platforms for fostering national unity, dialogue, and sustainable development.

Senator Lalong made the call while delivering the 18th ABU Alumni Association Annual Lecture during its General Assembly held at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State.

Speaking on the topic “The Role of Alumni in Promoting National Unity and Development,” Senator Lalong noted that Alumni Associations were established to promote enduring unity, collaboration, and progress among graduates of institutions.

Lalong, a proud 1990 graduate of ABU, said alumni gatherings offer opportunities to harness collective strengths, pool expertise, and serve as platforms for nation-building.

According to him, alumni communities represent a reservoir of professionals whose ideas and contributions can provide solutions to societal challenges.

He described ABU as an “outstanding academic brand” that has, for decades, offered a fertile environment for people from across Nigeria and beyond to learn values and principles that drive development.
The Senator commended the efforts of the ABU Alumni Association in addressing key national and institutional issues, saying its vast membership spread across the world places it in a strategic position to contribute even more to unity, progress, and the search for workable solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.

Chairman of the occasion and Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru, said gatherings of ABU graduates continually remind Nigerians of the rich pool of talent produced by the institution.

He assured the alumni community of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening national development and tackling the nation’s security concerns.

In his remarks, ABU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, praised the Alumni Association for its unwavering support to the university through numerous initiatives. He commended Senator Lalong, the 2025 Alumni Guest Lecturer, for distinguishing himself and representing the University honourably in his professional and political career.

Also speaking, the Emir of Zazzau, Amb. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, an alumnus of the institution, said the annual gathering rekindles shared memories and strengthens bonds that can be mobilised towards supporting the university and the country.

President of the ABU Alumni Association, Mallam Adamu Mamman Kontagora, described the General Assembly as an opportunity to review progress, address challenges, and chart new directions for the association.

He added that this year’s lecture theme was chosen to evaluate how alumni can further enhance their contribution to the institution and the nation at large.