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| The 45th Convocation Ceremony of ABU Zaria Will Take Place on January 31st, 2026 |
The 45th Convocation Ceremony of ABU Zaria will take place on January 31st, 2026 (lecture Jan 30 with Okonjo-Iweala/Obasanjo), venues (Mamman Kontagora Square), history & tips—full guide.
The prestigious Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria prepares for a landmark celebration—the 45th Convocation Ceremony of ABU Zaria will take place on January 31st, 2026, at Mamman Kontagora Square, Main Campus, Samaru, Zaria. This event follows a high-profile Pre-Convocation Lecture on January 30, 2026, delivered by WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and chaired by former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. Marking academic excellence for thousands of graduates, the ceremony highlights ABU's legacy as Nigeria's largest university. This exhaustive guide covers the 45th Convocation Ceremony of ABU Zaria will take place on January 31st, 2026, full schedule, key guests, history, what to expect, preparation tips, and live coverage—your definitive resource for this significant milestone.
From lecture insights to gown collection, plan your attendance or follow remotely for this prestigious occasion.
Official Announcement and Key Dates for the 45th Convocation
The 45th Convocation Ceremony of ABU Zaria will take place on January 31st, 2026, as confirmed by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Adamu Ahmed in a December 15, 2025 statement.
Schedule:
- Pre-Convocation Lecture: Friday, January 30, 2026 – Abdullahi Mahadi Conference Centre, Main Campus.
- Main Ceremony: Saturday, January 31, 2026 – Mamman Kontagora Square, Main Campus.
- Activities: Degree conferments, honorary awards, outstanding student recognition.
Public invited; preparations advanced. National Accord announcement National Accord ABU Convocation.
Quick CTA: Save the dates—mark January 30–31, 2026 for ABU's 45th Convocation!
Distinguished Guests: Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
The event features global leaders.
Guests:
- Lecturer: Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, GCON (WTO DG; former Finance Minister).
- Chair: Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR (former President).
- Expected: Vice-chancellors, industry leaders, technocrats.
Lecture theme focuses on economic/global relevance. The Whistler guests The Whistler ABU Lecture.
Venue and Logistics: Mamman Kontagora Square and Campus Details
Ceremonies at ABU Main Campus, Samaru, Zaria.
Venues:
- Lecture: Abdullahi Mahadi Conference Centre.
- Convocation: Mamman Kontagora Square (iconic open-air venue).
Logistics:
- Access: Gates open early; security checks.
- Parking: Designated areas.
- Seating: Reserved for dignitaries/graduands; general public welcome.
Zaria weather January: Mild (20–30°C). ABU campus map ABU.edu.ng.
History of ABU Convocation Ceremonies: From 1st to 45th
ABU's convocations celebrate excellence since 1962 founding.
History:
- First: Early 1970s post-establishment.
- Recent: 44th in 2025; steady annual events.
- 45th Milestone: First under current VC; post-COVID normalcy.
Traditions: Gowns, speeches, honorary degrees. Wikipedia ABU Wikipedia Ahmadu Bello University.
What to Expect: Program, Dress Code, and Protocol
Formal academic celebration.
Program:
- Procession, national anthem.
- VC address, lecture highlights (Jan 30).
- Degree conferment, awards (Jan 31).
Dress:
- Graduands: Academic gowns.
- Guests: Formal attire (suits, traditional).
Protocol: Punctuality; no phones during speeches.
Preparation Tips for Graduands, Families, and Guests
Plan ahead for smooth experience.
Tips:
- Gown Collection: From faculty weeks prior.
- Tickets: Required for seating.
- Travel: Book Zaria accommodation early.
- Live Stream: Expected on ABU YouTube/social.
Families: Arrive early for photos. Previous convocation tips from ABU site.
For university events, see our Nigeria Federal Universities with Fastest Academic Calendar
The 45th Convocation Ceremony of ABU Zaria will take place on January 31st, 2026—a celebration of achievement and excellence.
Visit ABU.edu.ng for updates—prepare to witness history!
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