The University of Abuja, now Yakubu Gowon University, has announced plans to graduate a total of 12,624 students during its combined 29th and 30th convocation ceremonies scheduled for April 10 to April 18, 2026.
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists at the university’s main campus, describing the event as his first convocation since assuming office.
He said the week-long programme commenced with a Juma’at prayer and an inter-denominational church service and will feature several academic and public engagement activities, including innovation exhibitions, awareness lectures, environmental discussions, and a convocation lecture on artificial intelligence in fintech.
Fawehinmi also confirmed that three distinguished Nigerians will be honoured with honorary doctorate degrees for their contributions to society.
“The main convocation ceremonies will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, for first degrees, and on Saturday, April 18, 2026, for Higher degrees and the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees, all at the Convocation Square.
It is noteworthy that this year, the University will confer Honorary Doctorate Degrees (Honoris Causa) on distinguished Nigerians, including Professor Yusuff Olaolu Ali, SAN, Mr Paul Odili, and Mr Emmanuel Ayuba Iza, in recognition of their contributions to their various fields of endeavours and humanity.”
He expressed pride in the graduating students, noting that they were trained in both knowledge and character.
Providing a breakdown, he said 7,158 students will graduate from the 2022/2023 academic session, while 5,466 will graduate from the 2023/2024 set.
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“For the 29th Convocation (2022/2023 set), the breakdown is as follows: First Class: 48; Second Class Upper: 2,048; Second Class Lower: 4,418; Third Class: 644. Total: 7,158
“For the 30th Convocation (2023/2024 set), the breakdown is as follows: First Class: 29; Second Class Upper: 1,395; Second Class Lower: 3,091; Third Class: 951. Total: 5,466.”
He added that the best graduating students from both sets would be offered automatic employment at the university.
Fawehinmi also highlighted the institution’s growing population, stating that it currently has about 40,000 students and is projected to reach 50,000 by 2030, while stressing the need for infrastructure expansion.
He acknowledged past leadership challenges within the institution but said stability had now been restored, crediting government intervention and the university’s governing council.
The Vice-Chancellor also noted improvements in academic standards, research funding, staff promotions, infrastructure development, and student welfare, while revealing that 28 students were expelled earlier in the year for misconduct.
He, however, warned that land encroachment and funding constraints remain key challenges affecting future expansion plans.
Despite these issues, Fawehinmi expressed confidence that strategic partnerships and effective management would sustain the university’s growth trajectory and strengthen its position as a leading institution.
He concluded by appreciating the media for its continued support and coverage of the university’s activities.