Professor Adamu Ahmed has been appointed as the 14th Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, effective May 1, 2025. His appointment was announced on February 5, 2025, during the 209th (Special) Council meeting presided over by Chairman Mahmud Yayale Ahmed.
Educational Background
Professor Ahmed’s academic journey is deeply rooted in ABU. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Geography, followed by a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning in 1990 and 2000, respectively. He achieved the rank of professor in 2012.
Academic and Administrative Career
Joining ABU as a lecturer in 1991, Professor Ahmed has dedicated over three decades to academia and administration. His roles at ABU have included:
- Head of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning
- Deputy Director of ABU Consultancy Services
- Director of the Directorate of University Advancement
In June 2024, President Bola Tinubu appointed him as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Education, Kano.
Public Service
Beyond academia, Professor Ahmed has contributed to public service. He was appointed by Governor Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar as the chairman of a committee on land administration in Bauchi State. Subsequently, from 2019 to 2021, he served as the Commissioner of Lands and Survey in Bauchi State under Governor Bala Muhammad.
Research and Publications
Professor Ahmed’s research focuses on land cover, land use, climate change, and food security. Notable publications include:
- “Land Cover, Land Use, Climate Change, and Food Security,” co-authored with Y.A. Bununu.
- “The Influence of History on the Urban Landscape of Zaria,” co-authored with Yakubu Bununu.
Vision for Ahmadu Bello University
As he steps into the role of Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ahmed is expected to leverage his extensive experience in academia and public administration to advance ABU’s mission of imparting contemporary knowledge and generating new ideas relevant to Nigeria and the global community.
His appointment has been met with optimism, with stakeholders describing him as an experienced academic and administrator poised to lead ABU to greater heights.
About Ahmadu Bello University (ABU)
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), located in Zaria, Nigeria, is one of Africa’s largest and most prestigious higher education institutions. Established in 1962 and named after Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto and Premier of Northern Nigeria, the university is committed to providing academic excellence and fostering socio-economic development through research, teaching, and community service. ABU’s mission is to advance the frontiers of knowledge and produce graduates equipped to meet the challenges of national and international development.
ABU boasts a sprawling campus with faculties, research centers, and institutes, offering a wide range of programs in sciences, social sciences, humanities, engineering, law, and health sciences. Its alumni include prominent figures in politics, academia, and business across Nigeria and Africa.
List of Past Vice-Chancellors
Since its inception, Ahmadu Bello University has had 14 Vice-Chancellors, each contributing to its growth and development. Below is a list of all past Vice-Chancellors:
- Dr. Norman Alexander (1962–1966)
The university’s first Vice-Chancellor, a New Zealander, who laid the foundation for academic and institutional excellence. - Dr. Ishaya Audu (1966–1975)
The first Nigerian Vice-Chancellor of ABU, who played a significant role in expanding the university’s faculties and infrastructure. - Prof. Ango Abdullahi (1975–1978)
Led key academic reforms and institutional restructuring during his tenure. - Prof. Iya Abubakar (1979–1986)
A distinguished mathematician who emphasized research and technological development. - Prof. Daniel Saror (1986–1991)
Focused on improving campus facilities and enhancing academic programs. - Prof. Adebayo Hamidu Abubakar (1991–1995)
Worked on faculty development and strengthening of international partnerships. - Prof. Abdullahi Mahadi (1995–1999)
Played a crucial role in modernizing the university’s administrative framework. - Prof. Shehu Abdullahi (1999–2004)
Advocated for university autonomy and academic freedom. - Prof. Adamu Nayaya Mohammed (2004–2009)
Known for his emphasis on research innovation and infrastructure improvement. - Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha (2009–2014)
Strengthened international collaboration and research funding opportunities. - Prof. Ibrahim Garba (2014–2020)
Expanded student enrollment and introduced several new academic programs. - Prof. Kabiru Bala (2020–2025)
Focused on digital transformation, sustainability initiatives, and university-industry partnerships. - Prof. Adamu Ahmed (2025–present)
The current Vice-Chancellor, bringing extensive experience in academia and public service.
