FCC Chair Backs ABU’s 2028 NUGA Ambition, Pledges Support for Sports Centre Initiative
Oru Leonard
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hon. Ayo Hulayat Omidiran, has reaffirmed her commitment to promoting national unity, equity and inclusive representation while pledging support for initiatives aimed at advancing education, youth empowerment and sports development in Nigeria.
Omidiran gave the assurance on Thursday when she received the management of Ahmadu Bello University, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Adamu Ahmed, during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
An alumna of the institution, Omidiran expressed gratitude to the University’s Governing Council and management for the visit, describing ABU as the institution that laid the foundation for her leadership and public service career.
She said she remains proud of her alma mater, noting that the University shaped her character, broadened her perspective and prepared her for national service. She also pledged continued support for programmes that promote education, youth development and national progress.
The FCC Chairman welcomed the University’s request for stronger collaboration, particularly applauding ABU’s emergence as the host of the 2028 Nigeria University Games (NUGA) and its designation as one of Nigeria’s National Centres of Excellence in Sports.
According to her, both achievements present strategic opportunities to discover and nurture young talents while strengthening Nigeria’s sports ecosystem.
Omidiran also accepted the University’s invitation to participate in its 64th Anniversary celebration scheduled for October 4, 2026, describing it as an opportunity to reconnect with the institution and celebrate its legacy.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ahmed, described Omidiran as one of the University’s most distinguished alumni whose accomplishments in public service and sports administration continue to inspire students and graduates.
He recalled that she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from ABU and served as Secretary of the Student Union Government at Queen Amina Hall, saying her career exemplifies the University’s values of leadership, excellence, integrity and service.
Professor Ahmed also highlighted Omidiran’s record as a two-term member of the House of Representatives, a pioneering member of FIFA’s Women’s Committee, Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Olympic Committee, founder of Omidiran Babes Football Club and now Executive Chairman of the FCC.
He commended the progress recorded by the Commission under her leadership, noting that its commitment to fairness, equity, national cohesion and inclusive representation aligns with the ideals upon which ABU was founded.
The Vice-Chancellor said Omidiran’s extensive experience in sports administration would be invaluable in helping the University successfully host the 2028 NUGA Games and develop a world-class National Centre of Excellence in Sports.
He also formally invited the FCC Chairman to the University’s 64th Anniversary celebration, describing her life and career as a source of inspiration for students.
The ABU delegation included the Registrar, Mallam Rabiu Samaila; Director of Public Affairs, Mallam Awwal Umar D.; Director of Sports, Dr. Omeiza; Professor Danladi Amoh; Professor Sani Ibrahim; Deputy Registrar, Mr. Ingino Danjuma Voh; Liaison Officer, Mallam Haruna Ajo; and Head of the Department of Biochemistry, Professor Aliyu Salihu.
