ABU Zaria Graduates 27,370 at 45th Convocation; Computer Science Student Emerges Best Overall with 4.92 CGPA

Ahmadu Bello University has conferred Degrees and Diplomas on 27,370 graduands at its 45th Convocation Ceremony that was held on Friday, 31st January, 2026.

The well-attended event took place at the famous Mamman Kontagora Square, Main Campus, Samaru, Zaria. 

The degree and diploma awardees were drawn from 110 academic departments across 18 faculties of the university. 

Of the number, a total of 323 bagged First Class Honours, 4,632 Second Class Upper Division, and 10,834 Second Class Lower Division. 

The number also comprised 2,559 Third Class, 47 Pass, and 424 Unclassified Degrees from the College of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. 

In addition, a total of 610 graduands received Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, 6,923 Master's degrees, 61 Master of Philosophy, and 957 Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD). 

The graduands, according to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Adamu Ahmed, had satisfied the academic requirements prescribed by the Senate of the university. 

Also at the event, the university conferred an Honorary Doctor of Science degree Honoris Causa on Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, GCON, a distinguished global leader. 

Okonjo-Iweala, who is presently the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), was one of the two outstanding personalities recommended for honorary recognition last year. 

The global leader was unable to attend the ceremony at that time due to circumstances beyond her control. 

The Vice-Chancellor said the recognition was in acknowledgment of her exceptional contributions to national development, global economic governance, public service, and commitment to excellence, integrity, and service to humanity. 

Prof Ahmed, who stressed that her achievements would continue to inspire generations of Nigerians and the global community, congratulated Okonjo-Iweala on being conferred with the distinguished and well-earned honour. 

Meanwhile, Ayodele Joseph Babalola of the Department of Computer Science has emerged as the University Overall Best Graduating student with 4.92 CGPA. 

Consequently, Babalola clinched the Sunbeth Academic Distinguished Award of N10 million for being the University Overall Best Graduating student. 

Also, a total of 16 others emerged as the Faculties Best Graduating Students. 

Prizes were equally given to other best graduating students across various departments of the university.