The Vice-Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, has announced an ambitious plan to strengthen academic tradition in the institution with a target of delivering 30 inaugural lectures by October 2027.
Professor Usman made this known on Tuesday during the 18th Inaugural Lecture of the university held at the institution’s auditorium, describing the event as a significant milestone and the first of such lectures since he assumed office.
He revealed that the university’s Senate, at its meeting on March 25, 2026, approved a comprehensive schedule to drive the initiative, with 13 additional inaugural lectures planned within the next two years.
According to him, the move is aimed at expanding the university’s intellectual culture and positioning it among leading institutions where academic discourse thrives.
“Inaugural lectures are defining moments of scholarship and institutional prestige. We must not only catch up with our peers but also establish ourselves as a hub of vibrant and impactful intellectual engagement,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor commended the Inaugural Lecture Committee, chaired by Professor Sunday Salifu Arogba, for its dedication and role in advancing the new agenda. He also acknowledged the historical contribution of the late Professor Francis Idachaba, under whose administration the lecture series began in 2008.
Highlighting the importance of the lecture series, Professor Usman announced an increase in the stipend for inaugural lecturers from ₦250,000 to ₦500,000, noting that the gesture is intended to reward academic excellence and encourage broader participation among professors.
The 18th inaugural lecture was delivered by Professor Adesola Ogidiolu on the topic, “Geographers in the Forest: Issues, Concerns and Tasks.” The Vice-Chancellor described the lecturer as a distinguished scholar and “living legend,” commending him for setting the pace under the current administration.
He noted that the lecture topic was timely, addressing critical issues such as environmental sustainability, climate change, and resource management, while underscoring the vital role of geographers in tackling ecological challenges.
Professor Usman further disclosed plans to introduce innovative approaches to the delivery of inaugural lectures in line with global best practices, including increasing their frequency and encouraging early submission of proposals by eligible professors.
He urged the Inaugural Lecture Committee to begin receiving submissions immediately to extend the programme beyond 2027 and possibly into 2028.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to academic excellence and institutional growth, the Vice-Chancellor called on stakeholders to work collectively towards elevating the university’s global relevance.
“Together, we shall build a university where ideas flourish, scholarship thrives, and excellence remains our standard,” he stated.
