In a move aimed at restoring public confidence in the institution’s financial management, the governor also disclosed that a special audit committee would be constituted. This committee will investigate all revenue transactions and financial practices at SAZU, particularly focusing on student fees and other internal income sources.
Governor Mohammed noted that the state government had, until now, deliberately refrained from interfering in the financial affairs of SAZU to preserve its autonomy. However, the situation, he said, now required government intervention to safeguard the university’s integrity and the interests of students, staff, and the broader academic community.
“The report has revealed critical gaps in accountability and transparency,” the governor stated. “We can no longer afford to ignore these issues, especially where student funds and public resources are concerned. We owe it to the people of Bauchi State to ensure that higher education institutions operate with the highest standards of responsibility.”
The report presented to the governor was the result of a comprehensive review process. According to the panel’s chairperson, Professor Gambo Laraba Abdullahi, the panel engaged extensively with stakeholders, reviewed numerous memoranda, and visited all three campuses of the university. The findings and recommendations, she said, are aimed at stabilising the institution and improving its overall governance.
Professor Abdullahi expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve and urged the state government to implement the panel’s recommendations without delay. “Our work was guided by the need to reposition SAZU as a functional and credible centre of learning,” she stated. “We believe these recommendations will go a long way in restoring trust and improving service delivery at the university.”
Governor Mohammed lauded the panel for its thoroughness and pledged to present the report to the State Executive Council for further action. He also hinted at broader reforms across tertiary institutions in the state to strengthen transparency, promote academic excellence, and address staff welfare concerns.
The developments at SAZU come amid growing calls nationwide for improved governance and accountability in public universities. Education stakeholders in Bauchi and beyond are now watching closely to see how the government’s decisions will impact the future of the institution and serve as a template for similar interventions elsewhere.
