By Anna Moses I THESTORIES – June 26, 2025: The management of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai (IBBUL), has applauded the swift intervention of the Niger State Government following a recent security breach that led to the tragic death of a student.
The commendation came during a solidarity visit by the university’s Alumni Association Executives.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Suleiman Mohammed Hadi, expressed deep appreciation to the state government—particularly the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs—for the prompt response. Within 24 hours of the incident, the university received a Hilux van, ten motorcycles, solar power facilities, and a transformer to boost security on campus and in surrounding student lodges.
Speaking on behalf of the alumni executives, the Chairman of the Alumni Association said the visit was not just to commiserate with the university but to show unity in the face of tragedy.
“We are here to mourn, to stand, and to act. The death of our student is a painful experience. As past students and leaders, it is our duty to support the university and work with relevant authorities to prevent such occurrences in the future.”
Professor Hadi urged students to be law-abiding, respectful, and to regard university authorities as parents rather than adversaries. He warned against vandalizing school property and encouraged students to live responsibly.
He also raised concerns over the increasing number of former students—either graduates or those withdrawn—who continue to reside off-campus under the cover of current students.
“Another pressing issue we have is the number of withdrawn students still being harbored by current students in their lodges. These individuals do nothing and can pose a security risk. But until we know who they are, we can’t take action—and campus students won’t reveal them,” he said.
The VC also condemned the actions of individuals misrepresenting the university on social media, describing such behavior as damaging to IBBUL’s image.
Addressing housing challenges, Professor Hadi lamented the high cost of rent in Lapai and the lack of cooperation from landlords. Despite multiple invitations, many landlords have failed to attend meetings or engage with university management.
In response, he said the university will work with the state government to introduce legislation compelling landlords who charge high rents to also provide adequate security for student tenants.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor added that plans are underway to build more hostels within the campus to reduce the number of students living off-campus.
“We are working towards relocating more students to campus, where they are safer. Currently, only slightly over 10% of students live on campus, while about 89.9% stay off-campus,” he stated.
The university management reaffirmed its commitment to student welfare and to ensuring a safe and secure academic environment for all.
