It is expected that the new Vice Chancellor will sustain the current drive for the deployment of massive infrastructural facilities in the university as well as maintain the cordial relationship that exists between the university and foreign universities and research centres in the UK, Netherlands, Ireland, Egypt, South Africa and Tunisia, to mention but a few.
As an authority on security and strategy, Professor Kyari has been a consultant to many international organisations and development agencies like the Chathan House in London, European Union, Ecowas, IFRA and CDD among others with over 70 publications to his credit. He was at various times Director, General Studies, Dean, School of Management and General Studies and served on many committees including that of the Governing Council for about 10 years. Professor Kyari was rated the best out of the 29 people that vied for the post in a fierce but transparent and credible selection process set in motion by the university’s Governing Council. The Council deserves commendation for keeping to standard in carrying out this laudable process.
Those who know the new Vice Chancellor have attested to the fact that his appointment will advance the cause of the university and raise its esteem as he has the capacity to unite the community in attitude, outlook and vision for a balanced development and growth of the institution. A renowned academic, Professor Mohammed will, without doubt, handle the management of the university like his predecessor did due to his passion for administrative excellence arising from purity of the mind.
As a Director of the Centre for Peace and Security, Mohammed had always been propelled by a phenomenal and unparalleled urge to see that students get good education in order to have better future. It is consistent with this burning desire that he has kept faith with teaching and imparting knowledge on his students. According to the account of one of his closest associates, Professor Mohammed is a honourable man with extraordinary strength of character, and that, “he has always kept the view that our youth must be cherished, protected and well cared for and therefore must have a condusive learning environment for them to realize their dreams”. The fact that he has spent his entire working career in the university is a testimony of his enriched humility and forthrightness. He is a good example of public officers whose actions are directed by their abiding faith in public good. I have always held the view that ideas, which Professor Mohammed possesses in large quantum, make the difference.
A columnist in one of the leading Nigerian newspapers once described him as “an astute administrator and intellectual of fine reputation blessed with sufficient mettle and wisdom to handle difficult tasks”. A natural leader and motivator of men, the professor is a man of exemplary conduct, compassion and good counsel. Our thoughts are with you as you set out to take on an assignment that is dear to your heart. Goodluck my Prof!
Dr. Mohammed, a veteran journalist wrote from Abuja
