Prof Bogoro opposes Conversion of ATBU to conventional university
Prof. Suleiman Bogoro, former Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) says that the move to convert the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Bauchi from a technology based University to a conventional one is unacceptable.
Bogoro, who is a product of the University described the proposal as a way of embracing backwardness considering the soaring position of ATBU among its peers.
The Professor of Agriculture, stated this when the Management of the University renamed the Senate Building of the institution after the second Vice Chancellor, Prof. Buba Bajoga, who died in a London Hospital on 5th February, 2026.
The Don stressed that the University remains one of the flagship of science and technology institutions in Nigeria which could be testified in a number of experts in various fields of technology and science it has produced and nurtured over the years.
“When some people for whatever reasons suggested that ATBU should be reverted or be revised to a conventional university, I shouted over the rooftop.
“I said it is unacceptable. ATBU is one of the best in Science and Technology. The best crop of Scientists and Engineers in Nigeria are from here. You should be proud of that.
“The suggestion that we go back as a conventional University is to say we want to embrace backwardness,” Bogoro insisted.
He added that those that suggested the move did not consider that fact that it was a direct slap on the faces of those who worked so hard to make the institution excelled in technology driven innovations just as the school had been rated as the best technology University in the Northeastern part of the country for a long time.
He therefore reinforced his stance that there was no cogent reason in the first place to seek amendment to the University’s establishment law.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Ibrahim Garba, described late Prof Buba Bajoga as the architect of ATBU’s formative years.
“With unwavering vision, firmness and unyielding dedication, he transformed a nascent University into a beacon of excellence in Bauchi and beyond, producing scholars that shone in their chosen careers.”
“Under his stewardship, ATBU flourished through innovative curriculum development, strategic infrastructure growth, and a commitment to nurturing talents that would proudly shape Nigeria’s future.”
“He embodied the pioneering spirit of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa himself, resolute, inclusive, and forward-thinking, laying foundations that we, his successors, continue to build upon with pride and passion,” said the VC.
Bajoga’s brilliant foundation laying for the University has earned him immortality. He was also a Managing Director of the defunct Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL).
Buba Bajoga spearheaded reforms that connected millions, bridging the digital divide and propelling Nigeria towards a modern communication era.
