By Ibrahim Yunusa
The Provost of Audu Bako College of Agriculture (ABCOA), Dambatta, Professor Muhammad Abdu Wailare, has formally handed over the leadership of the institution to the Deputy Provost after unveiling the college’s Science and Technology Journal.
The handover took place during a ceremonious send-forth event organized in honour of the outgoing Provost, whose administration spanned eight years from 15 January 2018 to 15 January 2026.
Professor Wailare’s tenure was widely described as impactful, recording remarkable achievements across all sectors of the college, benefiting students as well as academic and non-academic staff.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Deputy Provost, Dr. Hassan Ibrahim who has now assumed office as the Acting Provost highlighted the significant developments witnessed under Professor Wailare’s leadership.
“Professor Wailare is calm and focused, hardly distracted from his vision,” Dr. Ibrahim said.
“Before his administration, ABCOA had fewer than 30 academic programmes, but today the college runs about 80 different programmes.
“Social inclusiveness has also improved significantly, with young academics now serving as heads of departments. We assure him that his legacy in this college will be sustained,” the Acting Provost concluded.
Other members of the college management also took turns to testify to the leadership qualities and achievements of the outgoing Provost.In his remarks, Professor Wailare expressed gratitude to the entire ABCOA community, stating that the college would forever remain dear to his heart.
“I am overwhelmed and deeply indebted for this warm reception,” he said. “Even after my departure, I will continue to stand with you, and my doors remain open to honour your personal invitations.
“Eight years are not eight days. Today, I am bidding farewell to the college and its people. I realised that ABCOA has many intelligent and talented individuals. Identifying and engaging them was the key to our success.
“The students are also a major part of our success, especially the last dual leadership of NAKSS and the Students’ Union Government,” he added.
Professor Wailare expressed confidence in the leadership of his successor, describing the Acting Provost as capable and competent.
The event also featured the presentation of awards by various academic and non-academic unions to the outgoing Provost, as emotions ran high among staff and students marking the end of Professor Wailare’s tenure.