Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, Bauchi State, Nigeria Event date: Saturday, 17 October 2026 Venue: University Audiovisual Complex, Azare
The Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (FUHSA), celebrated its maiden convocation ceremony on Saturday, 17 October 2026, marking a historic milestone with the graduation of 50 pioneer students from the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. The ceremony brought together graduates, families, university staff, traditional rulers, government representatives and invited guests to celebrate academic achievement and service to society.
Celebrating Our Pioneer Graduates
The first graduating class holds a special place in FUHSA’s history. Their achievements reflect the commitment of the students and the support of their lecturers, parents, guardians and mentors.
The graduating class recorded the following results:
| Degree Classification | Number of Graduates |
|---|---|
| First Class Honours | 3 |
| Second Class Upper Division | 20 |
| Second Class Lower Division | 25 |
| Third Class | 2 |
| Total | 50 |
The Chancellor encouraged the pioneer graduates to become worthy ambassadors of the university and to uphold integrity, compassion, discipline and lifelong learning throughout their professional careers.
Conferment of Honorary Doctor of Science Degrees
A highlight of the ceremony was the conferment of Honorary Doctor of Science degrees, honoris causa, on two distinguished Nigerians in recognition of their contributions and service.
His Royal Highness, Alhaji Sama’ila Mohammed Mera
Emir of Argungu and Chancellor, FUHSA
The university honoured its Chancellor, Alhaji Sama’ila Mohammed Mera, with an honorary Doctor of Science degree. The recognition acknowledged his contributions to the institution and service to society.
In his address, the Chancellor emphasised that professional competence must be accompanied by compassion and integrity. He described the honorary recognition as a call to greater service and continued advocacy for the university.
Malam Adamu Adamu
Former Minister of Education, Federal Republic of Nigeria
FUHSA also conferred an honorary Doctor of Science degree on Malam Adamu Adamu, former Minister of Education, in recognition of his distinguished contributions and service.
His recognition formed part of the university’s celebration of individuals whose contributions have supported education and the development of the institution.
A Week of Celebration, Community Service and Scholarship
Activities leading to the ceremony took place from 12 to 17 October 2026, combining student engagement, community service, academic discussion and institutional development.
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| Monday, 12 October | Student activities, including a novelty football match and recreational events |
| Tuesday, 13 October | Medical outreach in Fatara community |
| Wednesday, 14 October | Carnival and student celebrations |
| Thursday, 15 October | Engagement with the Pro-Chancellor and professors, FUHSA awards and Chancellor’s Night |
| Friday, 16 October | Commissioning of projects and pre-convocation lecture |
| Saturday, 17 October | Maiden convocation ceremony |
The outreach demonstrated the university’s commitment to connecting health sciences education with the needs of surrounding communities.
Convocation Lecture
Professor Abubakar Adamu Rasheed, former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, delivered the pre-convocation lecture titled:
“From Medical Education to National Wellbeing: The Promise of Universities of Health Sciences in Nigeria.”
The lecture addressed the contribution of specialised health sciences universities to education, healthcare delivery, research and national wellbeing.
Student Innovation and Research
The celebrations included an exhibition of 34 value-added nutritional products developed by students, alongside research publications. The exhibition demonstrated opportunities to translate scientific knowledge into practical responses to nutrition and public health needs.
Support for the University’s Development
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Visitor to the university, was represented by the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Architect Sonny Echono. The President called for increased TETFund support to strengthen FUHSA’s infrastructure, research and academic development.
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, reaffirmed support for the institution. The occasion also featured the announcement of a postgraduate scholarship extending to doctoral level for the outstanding graduating student.
Building on a Historic Beginning
Under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Professor Bala Mohammed Audu, FUHSA celebrated the maiden convocation as the beginning of a new chapter in its development.
The university congratulates its pioneer graduates and honorary doctorate recipients, and appreciates the staff, families, partners and supporters who contributed to this milestone. As its graduates begin their professional journeys, FUHSA looks forward to their contributions to healthier communities through knowledge, ethical practice and service.
