Omidiran Pledges support for ABU, reaffirms commitment to equity, youth and sports development
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hon. Ayo Hulayat Omidiran, has reaffirmed her commitment to promoting national unity, equity and inclusive representation, while pledging continued support for initiatives that advance education, youth empowerment and sports development across Nigeria.
Omidiran gave the assurance on Thursday when she received the management of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, during a courtesy visit to the Commission's headquarters in Abuja.
An alumna of the institution, the FCC Chairman expressed gratitude to the University's Governing Council and management for the visit, describing ABU as the institution that laid the foundation for her leadership journey and public service career.
"I remain immensely proud to be an alumna of Ahmadu Bello University. The University shaped my character, broadened my perspective and prepared me for the responsibilities of leadership and national service. I will always cherish the institution and remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote education, national development and youth empowerment," she said.
Omidiran welcomed the University's request for stronger collaboration, particularly commending ABU's selection as host of the 2028 Nigeria University Games (NUGA) and its designation as one of Nigeria's National Centres of Excellence in Sports. She described both milestones as strategic opportunities to nurture young talents and strengthen the country's sports development framework.
The former member of the House of Representatives also accepted the University's invitation to participate in its 64th Anniversary celebrations scheduled for October 4, 2026, expressing delight at the opportunity to reconnect with her alma mater and celebrate its enduring legacy.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, described Omidiran as one of ABU's most distinguished alumni, whose achievements in public service and sports administration continue to inspire students and young leaders.
He noted that her academic background in Biochemistry and her service as Secretary of Queen Amina Hall's Students' Union Government reflected the values of leadership, excellence, integrity and service that the University seeks to instill in its graduates.
Ahmed also highlighted Omidiran's impressive record in public service, including her tenure as a two-term member of the House of Representatives, her pioneering role on FIFA's Women's Committee, her position as Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Olympic Committee, her establishment of Omidiran Babes Football Club, and her current leadership of the Federal Character Commission.
"We sincerely appreciate the honour you bring to your alma mater through your exemplary leadership and achievements," the Vice-Chancellor said.
He further commended the progress recorded by the FCC under Omidiran's leadership, noting that her commitment to fairness, equity, national cohesion and inclusive representation aligns with the ideals upon which Ahmadu Bello University was founded.
Describing her as an accomplished sports administrator with extensive national and international experience, Ahmed said her expertise would be invaluable as the University prepares to host the 2028 NUGA Games and develop its Centre of Excellence in Sports.
"These landmark developments present enormous opportunities for the University to contribute to sports development, talent discovery and youth empowerment. We look forward to drawing upon your vast experience, guidance and support as we prepare to deliver a memorable NUGA Games and build a Centre of Excellence that will become a national model for sports development," he stated.
The Vice-Chancellor also formally invited Omidiran to the University's 64th Anniversary celebration, describing her as an outstanding alumna whose life and career remain a source of inspiration to the institution's students.
Members of the ABU delegation included the Registrar, Mallam Rabiu Samaila; Director of Public Affairs, Mallam Awwal Umar D.; Director of Sports, Dr. Omeiza; Prof. Danladi Amoh; Prof. Sani Ibrahim; Deputy Registrar, Mr. Ingino Danjuma Voh; Liaison Officer, Mallam Haruna Ajo; and Head of the Department of Biochemistry, Prof. Aliyu Salihu.
Join the Savid News channel on WhatsApp:
