By Khadija Kubau
The Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Alumni Association, Kaduna State Branch, has concluded arrangements to host its Annual Get-Together and Award on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation Hall, opposite Murtala Square, Kaduna.
According to a statement issued by the Chairman of the Branch, Engr. Dr. Abubakar Gambo Umar, and the Branch Secretary, Dr. Hadiza Bello Abdullahi, the event, scheduled to commence at 4:00 p.m., is aimed at reuniting alumni, strengthening fellowship, promoting professional networking, and recognising distinguished alumni and friends of the Association for their contributions to nation-building and the development of Kaduna State.
The organisers said the programme would feature goodwill messages, a keynote presentation, award presentations, cultural displays, dinner, and networking, and is expected to attract between 300 and 350 guests, including government officials, traditional rulers, academics, captains of industry, and other eminent personalities.
The statement disclosed that Hon. Justice Ishaq U. Bello, retired Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Life Bencher, and Kuliyan Zazzau, will chair the occasion.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, is expected as the Special Guest of Honour, while Prof. Quirix Barnabas will deliver the keynote address. The Emir of Lere will serve as the Royal Father of the Day, with the District Heads of Doka, Gabasawa, and Kawo attending as Royal Guests.
According to the organisers, the President of the Worldwide ABU Alumni Association, Alhaji Adamu Mamman Kontagora, Barden Kontagora, will serve as Chief Host, while the Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, will serve as Co-Host.
The statement noted that the event would also celebrate the achievements of Governor Uba Sani, particularly his commitment to educational development and the execution of major infrastructural projects at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, alongside other developmental initiatives across Kaduna State.
The Branch Chairman, Engr. Dr. Abubakar Gambo Umar, said the gathering would provide an opportunity to reconnect alumni, celebrate excellence, strengthen partnerships, and mobilise support for the continued growth of the Association.
He added that the Branch had intensified preparations through stakeholder engagements, including courtesy visits to government institutions, ministries, agencies, corporate organisations, and prominent individuals to secure support for the successful hosting of the event.
As part of the preparations, the Association has introduced ABU Alumni mufflers as the official attire for members during the event to promote unity and strengthen the identity of the Association.
The organisers also disclosed that arrangements had been concluded for 300 registered participants, with additional reserved seating for invited dignitaries and special guests.
The Association called on alumni, partners, friends of the Association, and invited guests to attend what it described as a memorable evening of recognition, networking, cultural heritage, and renewed commitment to the ideals of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.