US Ambassador Commissions 27th Window on America in ABU Zaria
The U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard M. Mills Jnr, has commissioned the 27th Window on America at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard M. Mills Jnr, has commissioned the 27th Window on America in Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria. The commissioning ceremony took place at the Phase II section of the university, marking a significant milestone in strengthening academic collaboration and cultural exchange between Nigeria and the United States.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Mills emphasized that the Window on America initiative is designed to enhance teaching and learning experiences for both students and staff. He highlighted that the establishment of the space reflects core American values, particularly the commitment to global peace and progress. The center is intended to serve as a hub for workshops, career development programs, English language learning, and educational advancement.
The US envoy further stated that the facility is open to the public and that all services would be offered free of charge, courtesy of the generosity of the American Embassy. He commended the Vice-Chancellor and the university management for providing the enabling environment for the initiative.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of ABU, Prof. Kabiru Bala, expressed his excitement over the establishment of the center in Zaria. He affirmed that the facility would significantly benefit both students and staff, fostering an atmosphere of academic and intellectual growth. He also reiterated that the topics covered at the center would be relevant and impactful, further strengthening the partnership between ABU and the American Embassy.
Delivering a goodwill message, Prof. Adele Garkida, a Fulbright Scholar coordinating the initiative, extended appreciation to Dr. Adama Adamu, Head of the Department of Mass Communication, for facilitating the release of the facility for the establishment of the center. She described the hub as a great opportunity for mentorship and knowledge-sharing.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof. Raymond Bako, recounted that discussions with the American Embassy on the establishment of the hub had begun in 2010 but faced several delays before finally coming to fruition. He described the center as a strategic asset for ABU and Nigeria at large, emphasizing that it would also serve as a cultural hub, fostering dialogue and understanding between Nigeria and the United States.
The event was attended by dignitaries including the incoming Vice-Chancellor of ABU, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, alongside Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, Prof. Ahmed Doko Ibrahim, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor Advancement, Research, and Innovation, Prof. Sanusi Aliyu Rafindadi. Others present included the Acting University Librarian, Dr. Abubakar Abdullahi Mohammed; Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Shamsuddeen Mohammed; Dean, Faculty of Environmental Design, Prof. Abdullahi Abubakar; and Dean, Faculty of Life Sciences, Prof. Maryam Aminu, among other distinguished scholars and administrators.
The commissioning of the Window on America in ABU Zaria represents another step in fostering educational collaboration and cultural exchange between the United States and Nigeria, offering students and academics invaluable resources for learning and development.
