Business magnate and Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has pledged N15 billion for the development of new infrastructure at the Aliko Dangote University of Technology, Wudil, over the next five years.
Dangote made the commitment on Saturday during his inaugural address as Chancellor, delivered at the university’s combined convocation ceremony. This marks his second tenure as Chancellor of the institution.
According to Dangote, the funds will be used to construct modern engineering laboratories, a befitting Senate building, and a solar power plant that will provide a steady electricity supply to the university community.
In addition, he announced that the best graduating students will receive automatic employment within the Dangote Group, further strengthening the link between academic excellence and career opportunities.
Reacting to the announcement, the university’s Pro-Chancellor, Justice Abdu Aboki, expressed deep appreciation, describing Dangote’s support as a major step toward creating a world-class learning environment. He said the initiative would foster academic growth and elevate the university’s standing.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Musa Tukur Yakasai, in his remarks, described the convocation as a celebration of “hard work and resilience.” He disclosed that over 18,000 students graduated during the ceremony, which covered seven convocation cycles combined.
Professor Yakasai also commended the Kano State Government for settling the university’s financial backlog exceeding N100 million, and for completing previously abandoned capital projects on campus.
“All 45 academic programmes offered by the university are fully accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC),” the Vice-Chancellor stated. He also highlighted that the institution’s researchers have continued to earn international recognition for their work.
During the event, four distinguished Nigerians were conferred with honorary doctorate degrees in recognition of their contributions to national development. The recipients include Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, Prince Arthur Eze, Dr. Adeniyi Raji, SAN, and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who is also the founder of the university.
The high-profile convocation ceremony drew dignitaries and stakeholders from across the country, underscoring the university’s growing prominence in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.