IBBUL VC Seeks Retired Judges For Mentorship Through 'Town To Gown' Initiative

The Vice-Chancellor of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, IBBUL, Lapai, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, has called on retired judicial officers to return to academics and mentor the next generation of legal professionals through a proposed "Town to Gown" initiative.

Professor Sulaiman made the call while speaking at the Walimah ceremony held in honour of retired Court of Appeal Justice Amina Audi Wambai at the Faculty of Law Auditorium, IBB University, Lapai. 

He said the initiative is designed to bridge the gap between legal theory and courtroom practice by providing students with direct access to the wealth of knowledge, practical experience, and ethical values of accomplished jurists.

The Vice-Chancellor formally invited Justice Wambai and other retired judges to serve as mentors and resource persons for students of the University's Faculty of Law, stressing that while wealth, titles, and public offices cannot be inherited, wisdom, integrity, and professional experience can be passed from one generation to another through teaching and mentorship.

He noted that retirement should not mark the end of active service but the beginning of a new chapter dedicated to scholarship, mentorship, and community service. 

According to him, societies thrive when experienced professionals deliberately invest in the younger generation, describing knowledge sharing as one of the greatest legacies anyone can leave behind.

Professor Sulaiman further advised retired public servants to preserve the integrity and reputation they built during their years of service by remaining committed to causes that benefit humanity. 

Quoting Islamic teachings, the Vice-Chancellor observed that the most beneficial people are those whose knowledge and service continue to impact others, adding that mentoring future lawyers and judges would not only strengthen legal education but also serve as a lasting legacy whose rewards would endure beyond one's lifetime.

He expressed the University's readiness to collaborate with eminent retired jurists through the proposed "Town to Gown" programme, describing it as a strategic initiative to enrich legal education, inspire excellence, and produce ethical, competent, and socially responsible legal practitioners.

In her remarks, retired Court of Appeal Justice Amina Audi Wambai expressed profound gratitude to Almighty Allah for a fulfilling judicial career spanning over four decades, describing the honour bestowed on her as one of the greatest moments of her retirement. 

She said the celebration was particularly meaningful because it was held in her hometown of Lapai, where her life's journey began. Reflecting on her career, which started as a Magistrate in 1983 before her elevation to the High Court and later the Court of Appeal, Justice Wambai said her passion for the legal profession was driven by a desire to promote justice, protect the vulnerable, uphold the rule of law, and contribute meaningfully to society. 

She noted that every judgment carried enormous responsibility because it directly affected the lives of individuals and families, emphasizing that justice must always be guided by fairness, integrity, patience, and accountability to Allah and one's conscience.

The retired jurist paid glowing tribute to her late father, mother, husband, children, mentors, colleagues, and the people of Lapai for their unwavering support, prayers, and sacrifices throughout her career, stressing that her achievements were the product of collective encouragement and divine grace rather than personal effort alone. 

She also appreciated the Etsu Lapai, members of the Emirate Council, the organising committee, and all guests for celebrating her legacy. While describing retirement as the end of active judicial service but not the end of service to humanity, Justice Wambai pledged to continue contributing to society in any capacity Allah permits. 

She advised younger legal practitioners to guard their integrity jealously, reminding them that while brilliance may attract admiration, it is good character, honesty, and a reputation built on justice that earn lasting respect and leave an enduring legacy.

In his goodwill message, the Emir of Lapai, Engr. Umaru Bago Tafida III, congratulated retired Court of Appeal Justice Amina Audi Wambai on her remarkable judicial career, describing her achievements as a source of immense pride to the Lapai Emirate and an inspiration to future generations. He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to supporting every individual and initiative that promotes the image, unity, and development of Lapai, declaring that he would always identify with any cause that brings honour to the emirate. 

The royal father emphasized the importance of respecting and praying for parents, noting that parental blessings and divine favour remain the foundation of lasting success and fulfilment in life. He commended Justice Wambai for upholding the values of integrity, hard work, and service, while urging sons and daughters of the emirate to emulate her exemplary life. 

Engr. Bago also expressed appreciation to the organisers and guests for honouring one of Lapai's distinguished daughters and prayed for Allah's continued guidance, protection, and blessings upon the community and its people.