Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, former Senate President of Nigeria, has called on the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Alumni Association to invest in the development of their alma mater. He made this appeal at the 2026 International Convention of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Alumni Association in Abuja. Anyim emphasized that it is both a moral and human responsibility to contribute to the institution that shaped their lives. He reminded delegates that alumni responsibility is a duty attached to humanity itself.
Anyim explained that the contribution of alumni is not measured in quantity or size, but in value and impact. He noted that contributions should be based on individual opportunities, capacities, and competences. According to him, every act of kindness, generosity, and enhancement of human welfare and dignity counts. The purpose of the gathering, he said, was to recognize the common foundation shared by all graduates and to rekindle the collective will to tend and develop their alma mater.
Prof. Bond Anyaehie, Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, described the Alumni Association as the cornerstone of his administration's transformation journey. He recalled working with alumni to deliver projects worth over N200 million in his alma mater. Anyaehie traced his personal journey with the Alumni Association from his days as coordinator of the Medical Alumni to his current role as Vice Chancellor. He commended the NAU Alumni Association leadership for its selflessness.
The Vice Chancellor announced a raft of student-centered reforms aimed at making learning and being an alumnus more dignified and interesting. These reforms include providing seated classes with necessary facilities and implementing a full digital clearance system. He also revealed that the university has automated certificate issuance, allowing graduates to download their certificates online with a barcode/QR code. Anyaehie reaffirmed his commitment to sustained partnership with all branches, chapters, diaspora groups, and set associations.
Prof. Ikechukwu Umeh, Global President of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Alumni Association, outlined a comprehensive roadmap for the next phase of the Association's growth. This roadmap includes expanding its scholarship scheme, institutionalizing structured mentorship, strengthening branches, and completing its flagship Alumni Centre. Umeh emphasized that the Association must evolve beyond reunions into a functional ecosystem that creates real opportunities for its members and students.
The Global President disclosed that the Association invested N5 million in the education of 50 indigent students at the beginning of the year. He noted that the scholarship scheme must now scale up in response to current realities, especially with the recent increase in school fees. Umeh also highlighted the need for a more structured mentorship program, focusing on connecting graduating students and young alumni with established alumni for career guidance, internships, business support, and employment opportunities.
The Nnamdi Azikiwe University Alumni Association's efforts to support its alma mater have yielded significant results. The Association's investments in the university have catalyzed major developments, including new learning sites and facilities. With the continued support of alumni, the university is poised for further growth and transformation. Key initiatives, such as the scholarship scheme and mentorship program, are expected to have a lasting impact on the lives of students and graduates.
Key points
- - Alumni contributions should be based on individual opportunities, capacities, and competences. - The Nnamdi Azikiwe University Alumni Association invested N5 million in the education of 50 indigent students. - The university has implemented a full digital clearance system and automated certificate issuance.
