What You Didn’t Know About Ahmadu Bello University: 15 Fascinating Facts

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, stands out as one of Nigeria’s premier institutions. Below are 15 intriguing facts about the university that you might not know:

1. ABU operates two campuses: the main Samaru Campus, which houses most faculties, and the Kongo Campus.

2. The university boasts over 90,000 students across various programmes, including diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate studies.

3. Interestingly, the Departments of History and Local Government & Development Studies have never produced a first-class graduate.

4. Medicine and Surgery is the most applied course at ABU. In 2016, around 10,000 people applied, but only 120 were admitted. Civil Law follows as the second most popular course.

5. ABU has 99 departments spread across 16 faculties.

6. Before the construction of Dangote and Shehu Idris Halls, ABU had not built a new hostel in 40 years.

7. The current Vice-Chancellor is Professor Kabiru Bala. Dr. Ahmed Kundila is the Registrar, while Prof. Miftahu serves as the Dean of Students' Affairs.

8. The distance between Kongo and Samaru campuses is approximately 25 minutes by bus or car.

9. ABU is the second largest university in Africa, trailing only behind the University of Cairo in Egypt.

10. Kongo Campus has only one faculty (Law) and one institute (Institute of Administration).

11. ABU is regarded as the most secular university in Nigeria, with students from all parts of the country and a high number of foreign applicants.

12. The Samaru Campus is home to one of the largest Christian Students' chapels in Northern Nigeria.

13. Unlike many institutions, ABU has never been shut down due to cult activities.

14. Kogi State is reported to have the highest number of students at ABU.

15. ABU is also one of the most affordable federal universities in Nigeria.

These facts offer a glimpse into the rich history and significance of Ahmadu Bello University as a hub for education in Africa.