The Federal Character Commission chair, Hulayat Omidiran, has pledged full support for Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, as the institution prepares to host the Nigerian University Games Association in 2028.

Ms Omidiran made the pledge when ABU management led by the vice-chancellor, Adamu Ahmed, visited her at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.

She congratulated ABU for securing the hosting rights for the 29th edition of the games, pending the final signing of a memorandum of agreement, marking the return of the games to the institution for the first time since 2001.

Ms Omidiran also applauded the designation of ABU as one of Nigeria’s national sports centres of excellence, with plans by the federal government to upgrade the institution’s sports infrastructure. She described both milestones as “strategic opportunities” to discover talent and strengthen the country’s sports landscape.

She noted that the biennial multi-sport event was designed to foster elite student-athlete development, national unity, and the sports economy across Nigerian universities.

Describing ABU as the foundation of her career and leadership journey, Ms Omidiran expressed immense pride in being an alumna of the institution.

“The university shaped my character, broadened my perspective, and prepared me for the responsibilities of leadership and national service. I will always cherish the institution and remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote education, national development, and youth empowerment,” she said.

Additionally, the former lawmaker accepted ABU’s invitation to attend its 64th Anniversary celebrations scheduled for October 4.

Welcoming Ms Omidiran’s support, the vice-chancellor commended her distinguished career in public governance and sports administration.

Mr Ahmed highlighted her past roles as a two-term member of the House of Representatives, a pioneering member of FIFA’s Women’s Committee, secretary of the Nigerian Olympic Committee’s board of trustees, and founder of Omidiran Babes Football Club.

He noted that during her undergraduate days at ABU, where she earned a B.Sc. in Biochemistry, Ms Omidiran served as the Student Union Government secretary of Queen Amina Hall.

(NAN)