A former student of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, has broken ground on a multi-billion naira digital library and research centre for the Department of Accounting in the Faculty of Management Sciences.
Dr Rabiu Olowo, who graduated from the institution in 2006, has pledged to complete the facility before year-end to commemorate the 20th anniversary of his graduation.
During Monday’s ground-breaking ceremony, Vice-Chancellor Professor Salisu Usman Ogbo hailed the project as a transformative development that would elevate the university’s international standing and relevance.
Beyond the physical infrastructure, the facility will feature 24-hour electricity, round-the-clock internet connectivity, and dedicated research and conference spaces for the university community.
Professor Ogbo noted that the construction has already begun stimulating local economic activity, benefiting artisans, food vendors, cement suppliers, and other trade chains involved in the build.
Upon completion, academics from the accounting department and other faculties will gain access, while students from PAAU and universities worldwide will be able to conduct seamless online research through the digital library.
The Vice-Chancellor described the alumnus-led initiative as unprecedented in the university’s history, particularly noteworthy given that Dr Olowo hails from Kwara State, not Kogi.
He drew comparisons with projects witnessed at the University of Ibadan and Nasarawa State University, urging Kogi residents to embrace institutional ownership and shift their mindset.
Professor Ogbo expressed profound joy and motivation at the flag-off, emphasising his belief in diversity as a source of strength.
“I have never localised my thoughts or relationships,” he declared, noting that Dr Olowo’s decision to donate billions of Naira during his tenure as Vice-Chancellor was remarkable.
“Ownership is about contributions. History will be kind to this young man forever,” he added.
The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the role of friendship in facilitating the donation, referencing Dr Mohammed Umar, a friend from Kogi who connected Dr Olowo to the institution. He warned against ethnic and religious discrimination, which could deter potential benefactors.
“Build relationships beyond ethnic inclination, beyond religious domain, beyond clan. Relate freely—you never know where your helpers will come from,” he advised.
He urged the academic community to reject primordial politics and foster unity to encourage alumni contributions.
Professor Ogbo lamented that while Dr Olowo was giving back, other alumni were entangled in legal battles over university resources, culminating in a garnishee order on institutional accounts. He challenged them to return to the path of honour and contribute meaningfully to their alma mater’s growth.
Dr Mohammed Umar, of the United Arab Emirates University’s Department of Accounting and a friend of the donor, explained that 20 held special significance—marking both the anniversary and the project’s completion deadline.
The Head of the Department of Accounting paid tribute to Dr Umar, describing how he had welcomed and supported all accounting students from Malaysia, ensuring their seamless graduation and generously sharing academic resources.
He called on the Alumni Association to sheath their swords and embrace peace, urging well-meaning Nigerians to give back to society in gratitude for divine benevolence.