Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has directed the immediate reopening of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, months after its closure due to security threats that tragically claimed lives on campus.
The announcement, made earlier today, signals a renewed commitment to restoring academic activities and ensuring the safety of students and staff.
The university was shut down in early 2025 following a series of violent incidents attributed to banditry and other security challenges in the region, which led to loss of lives and heightened fear within the university community.
The closure disrupted academic programs, leaving thousands of students stranded and prompting widespread concern among stakeholders.
Governor Bago, in a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, emphasized that the decision to reopen IBBU was informed by significant improvements in the security situation around Lapai.
“Following thorough assessments and consultations with security agencies, we are confident that the conditions are now conducive for academic activities to resume,” the statement read.
The governor also disclosed that additional security measures, including increased patrols, surveillance systems, and collaboration with local vigilante groups, have been deployed to safeguard the campus.
The Vice-Chancellor of IBBU, Professor Abu Kasim Adamu, expressed gratitude to the state government for its swift response to the crisis and its efforts to restore normalcy.
He assured students, parents, and staff that the university is working closely with security operatives to ensure a safe learning environment.
“We are committed to resuming academic activities without delay and have put in place measures to support the welfare and safety of our university community,” Professor Adamu stated.
The reopening directive includes a mandate for the university management to fast-track preparations, including the release of a revised academic calendar to accommodate the lost time.
Students have been advised to return to campus in phases, with priority given to final-year students and those in critical programs.
Stakeholders, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Students’ Union Government (SUG), have welcomed the development but urged the government to sustain its security interventions.
“While we are happy to return to our studies, we appeal for continuous efforts to ensure that such tragedies never happen again,” said SUG President, Comrade Hassan Mohammed.
Governor Bago reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing education and security across Niger State.
He called on the university community to cooperate with authorities and report any suspicious activities to prevent future incidents.
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