ABU Zaria Matriculates 10,054 Freshmen for 2025/2026 Academic Session

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) officially inducted 10,054 new students during its matriculation ceremony held on Tuesday, 17th February 2026, at the Mamman Kontagora Square, Main Campus, Samaru.

The ceremony marked the formal admission of the 2025/2026 cohort, selected from a competitive pool of 39,239 applicants. Despite a JAMB-allocated quota of 16,183, the institution maintained its rigorous standards by admitting just over 10,000 candidates through UTME and Direct Entry.

The Vice-Chancellor’s Charge

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adamu Ahmed, congratulated the matriculants on securing admission into Nigeria’s premier institution. He emphasized that the matriculation oath represents a binding commitment to the university’s laws and traditions.

"You are now expected to follow all its rules and regulations," Professor Ahmed stated, urging students to study the Student Handbook to navigate their academic journey effectively.

Academic Purpose and Social Responsibility

The Vice-Chancellor highlighted that the primary goal of their residency is the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and character. He noted that achieving these objectives requires a stable and harmonious environment. Key highlights of his address included:

Zero Tolerance for Vices: A stern warning was issued against examination misconduct, cultism, drug abuse, and indecent dressing.

Creative Excellence: The VC noted that ABU aims to produce graduates who are not just consumers of knowledge but creators of it, capable of engaging with a complex global landscape.

Female Empowerment: Professor Ahmed specifically challenged female students to draw inspiration from Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the WTO, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with tenacity.

Security and Vigilance

Concluding his address, the Vice-Chancellor wished the students a joyful academic experience while reminding them to remain security-conscious in their daily routines.

The event signals the commencement of full academic activities for the new session as the university continues its mission of "teaching, learning, and character development."