ATBU matriculates 4,355 new students

… as VC warns against cultism, hard drugs, malpractices

A total of 4,355 students admitted into various programmes of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), for the 2025-2026 academic session, have been matriculated.

The matriculation ceremony was held on Saturday at the 1000 Seater Lecture Theatre at the Yelwa Campus of the University, presided over by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Hassan Garba.

In his matriculation address, the VC warned the 4,355 newly matriculated students against cultism, drugs, examination malpractice and other vices, which he said are capable of ruining their future.

Ibrahim Hassan Garba described them as “soaring eagles” that should beware the storms that seek to ground them.

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He added, “I charge you with fiery resolve: reject drugs, the poisonous tempests that drown brilliance in despair and snuff out lives before they blaze.

“Defy cultism, those dark illusions of power that fracture brotherhood into bloodshed and shatter futures.”

He encouraged them to “Banish examination malpractices, immorality, and every vice that whispers defeat.

“These are not trials for the bold; they are traps for the timid! ATBU Bauchi is your sanctuary of strength, our vigilance unyielding, our justice swift.

“Choose the light of integrity; acquaint yourselves with the Students’ Handbook to guide you, as violations of the University regulations attract sanctions.”

The VC further encouraged the new students to make their studies the blazing core of their journey.

He stated, “I advise you all to make your studies the blazing core of your journey! Dive into lectures like warriors into battle, conquer research with relentless curiosity, and wield our world-class libraries, labs, and digital realms as your arsenal.”

He then urged them to dive into lectures like warriors into battle, conquer research with relentless curiosity, and wield the University’s world-class libraries, labs, and digital realms as their arsenal.

He said, “Forge bonds with mentors, fuel your mind through debates and innovations, and let every assignment be a step toward mastery.

“Punctuality is your shield, diligence your sword, wield them to etch your name in the stars of success.

“Your degree is no fleeting trophy; it is the key to unlocking nations, leading industries, and reshaping destinies. Declare it boldly: ‘Studies first, my legacy demands it!’

“As a community of scholars, we stand in awe of your potential. ATBU Bauchi is more than an institution; it is a fountain of legends, where we ascend global rankings through trailblazing programs in the sciences, engineering, health sciences and allied areas of our mandate.

“Here, your dreams will soar on wings of discovery. But true flight demands vision, courage, and an unbreakable spirit. Embrace this sacred moment: you have the capacity.

“To cherished parents and guardians, your sacrifices are the wind beneath these wings, nurture them with faith. To our dedicated staff, you are the master sculptors, continue moulding these giants with passion.”

Meanwhile, the Faculty of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology got 231 students, College of Medical Sciences 388; Faculty of Computing 526; Faculty of Engineering and Engineering Tech 933; Faculty of Environmental Technology 726; Faculty of Management Sciences 356; Faculty of Science 800. Others are: SPESSECE 107; Faculty of Technology Education 288.