150 Alumni Presidents Set to Meet in Bauchi Over University Funding Crisis

At least 150 alumni presidents from Nigerian universities are scheduled to gather in Bauchi State from October 2 to 5, 2025, for a high-level conference aimed at tackling the funding challenges confronting the nation’s higher education system.

The Association of Nigerian Universities Alumni (ANUA) disclosed this in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Sulaihun Maccido, on Tuesday.

With the theme “Bridging the Gap: Alumni-Driven Solutions for Sustainable University Funding,” the four-day event is expected to chart innovative pathways for financing universities, strengthen alumni involvement, and explore strategic partnerships to ease the strain on public funding.

Professor Yakubu Ochefu, ANUA’s National Chairman, will host the conference and lead a major session titled “Rethinking the Nigerian University System: The View from the Alumni.”

The programme will also feature a keynote address by Professor Saminu Ibrahim, former Vice-Chancellor of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, as well as a special session on “University Business Eco-Systems” to be facilitated by Architect Chris Uloko, a member of ANUA’s Board of Trustees.

According to the statement, the discussions will focus on two major objectives:

1. Developing sustainable university funding strategies – through innovative models and alumni-driven initiatives.

2. Improving the Nigerian university system – by leveraging alumni expertise to promote academic excellence, infrastructure development, and better graduate outcomes.

ANUA, which serves as the umbrella body for alumni associations across Nigerian universities, was established to strengthen ties between graduates and their alma maters. The organisation promotes collaborative projects that enhance education delivery, foster professional networking, and contribute to national development through advocacy and resource mobilisation.