IBBU Lapai is here to stay – Niger Governor vows amid security concerns

The Niger State Government has reassured the public of its firm commitment to safeguarding the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, following recent security breaches that forced the institution into indefinite closure.

Governor Umar Bago gave the assurance during a high-level meeting with stakeholders from the Lapai Emirate and the university community at the Government House in Minna. The dialogue was convened to address the disturbing incidents that disrupted academic activities and sparked safety concerns among students and staff.

Governor Bago affirmed that IBBU remains a critical institution to the state’s future, adding that the university “has come to stay” and will not be abandoned under any circumstances.

The governor said a town hall meeting will be held with Lapai stakeholders soon to drive home the government’s position, adding that efforts will be made in collaboration with the Council Chairman to organise a vigilante group to beef up security in the Local government.

He emphasised the need for the host community to co-exist with the University’s community for the socio-economic growth and development of the local government area.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor enjoined the Management of the institution to liaise with the State Security Committee to put mechanisms in place that include recruitment, training and equipping individuals that will provide security in the Institution, make new students and staff Identity Card with a code containing detailed information of the holder to ensure access control within the University.

Bago said under his watch such security breaches will not be tolerated, adding that parents must be reassured of the safety of their children even as the Parents will also be made to sign undertaking on the conduct of their Children in the University’s community as decisive action would be taken against students disrupting the stability of the institution.

He also advised the School Management to collaborate with developers for a Build, Operate and Transfer BOT initiative to address the issue of accommodation for Students, and to be more innovative to boost their revenue for the rapid growth and development of the Institution rather than relying on the State government.

The Governor also directed that University Management should, in the next three years, ensure that all the satellite campuses are closed down and all courses moved to the main campus in Lapai.

The Vice Chancellor of IBBU Lapai, Prof. Mohammed Hadi Suleiman, highlighted the efforts of the Institution to attract interventions for more hostel accommodation for the Students.