The Vice-Chancellor of Yakubu Gowon University (YGU), Abuja, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, is pleased to announce the formal Matriculation Ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic session. This significant occasion represents more than just a formal induction; it is the first major academic rite since the institution was officially renamed in December 2024 to honor the legacy of Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon.

For the newly admitted students, this ceremony marks the transition from “applicants” to legitimate scholars of the “University for National Unity.” It is a day of academic solemnity, where the next generation of leaders, researchers, and innovators pledges their commitment to the intellectual and ethical standards of one of Nigeria’s most prestigious federal institutions.

Official Schedule and Logistical Details

The University Management has finalized all arrangements for a seamless and dignified event. All matriculating students, faculty members, and esteemed guests are required to adhere to the following schedule:

• Date: Thursday, 12th February 2026

• Time: 9:30 a.m. Prompt

• Venue: Convocation Ground, Main Campus, Abuja

Mandatory Directives for Matriculating Students

The matriculation ceremony is a compulsory administrative and academic requirement. To ensure you are properly captured in the university’s records and can participate in the procession, the following guidelines must be followed:

1. Punctuality and Seating

The academic procession, led by the Vice-Chancellor and members of the Senate, begins precisely at 9:30 a.m. To avoid disruption, all matriculating students must be seated by 9:00 a.m. Students who arrive late will not be allowed to join the procession or sit within the designated matriculation area.

2. The Matriculation Oath

The core of the ceremony is the administration of the Matriculation Oath. By taking this oath, you formally agree to:

• Abide by the rules and regulations of the University.

• Respect the rights of fellow students and staff.

• Refrain from any activities that bring the name of the institution into disrepute, including cultism, examination malpractice, and drug abuse.

• Pursue your academic studies with diligence and integrity.

3. Academic Gowns and Regalia

Students are required to appear in the official university academic regalia. Gowns are typically collected from the respective Faculty Offices upon presentation of the school fee payment receipt and the specific matriculation gown hire fee. Proper corporate or formal traditional attire should be worn underneath the gown.

Governance and Leadership: Under the Stewardship of Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi

This year’s ceremony is particularly notable as it marks the first matriculation under the substantive leadership of Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi. A Professor of Clinical Anatomy and Biomedical Anthropology, Professor Fawehinmi assumed office with a clear vision to enhance the university’s research output and global ranking. His appointment by the 11th Governing Council underscores a new era of institutional stability and academic excellence for Yakubu Gowon University.

Under his administration, the university is doubling down on its identity as a center for national integration. The matriculation ceremony serves as a physical manifestation of this unity, bringing together students from every state in the federation and diverse academic backgrounds.

The Significance of the Renaming to Yakubu Gowon University

The decision by the Federal Government to rename the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University was a strategic move to honor a statesman whose life has been synonymous with Nigerian unity. As you matriculate, you are becoming a part of this evolving history. The institution continues to operate under its original mandate as a “dual-mode” university, providing world-class conventional and distance learning programmes while expanding its health sciences and technological infrastructure.

Post-Matriculation Procedures

Participation in the ceremony is not the final step. To complete your enrollment as a bona fide student, ensure the following are concluded:

• Sign the Matriculation Register: Immediately following the ceremony, you must sign the register at your Faculty or Departmental office. This is the legal evidence of your induction.

• Identity Card Capture: If you have not yet done so, visit the ICT center for your biometric capture and ID card issuance.

• Gown Return: Ensure academic gowns are returned to the faculty officers within the stipulated timeframe (usually 24–48 hours) to avoid late return surcharges.

Conclusion: A Reward for Perseverance

The Office of the Vice-Chancellor and the University Senate congratulate all freshers on their hard-earned admission. The University of Abuja (Yakubu Gowon University) is a competitive ground, and your presence at this ceremony is a testament to your academic merit. We wish you a smooth, successful, and rewarding academic journey as you embark on this life-changing experience.