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By Oscar Okhifo
Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has awarded Abdullahi Sherif, the overall best-graduating student of Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), a fully funded trip to Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage. The gesture was announced during the university’s 42nd convocation ceremony held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the main campus.
Abdullahi Sherif, a graduate of the Department of Microbiology, achieved an impressive 4.92 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA), earning him the top position among his peers.
Governor Aliyu, an alumnus of UDUS, recognized Sherif’s academic excellence with this special Hajj gift.
In his address, Governor Aliyu commended UDUS for its significant contributions to education in Nigeria and beyond, emphasizing the university’s impact on national and international development.
He also outlined several initiatives under his administration aimed at enhancing education in Sokoto State, including the settlement of ₦1.845 billion in accumulated tuition fees for Sokoto medical students studying both locally and abroad. Additionally, he announced the appointment of four UDUS professors to lead key education sectors in the state and the commencement of renovations for primary, secondary, and tertiary schools across Sokoto.
The convocation ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including representatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Sultan of Sokoto, the Oba of Lagos (Chancellor of the University), members of the National Assembly, diplomats, traditional rulers, senior academics, and alumni from across the country.
At the event, three individuals were honored with special awards: former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Faruku Yahaya (retd), received a Doctor of Science degree; renowned Islamic scholar, Sheikh Aminu Durawa, was conferred with a Doctor of Letters; and Professor Dejo Abdulrahman was named Emeritus Professor in recognition of his service to the university.
While many have praised the recognition of Abdullahi Sherif, some have expressed disappointment that the reward emphasized religious elevation rather than an academic scholarship. Observers note that in a state with notable educational challenges, prioritizing religious prestige over advancing knowledge may not address the broader needs of students.
Nevertheless, supporters argue that the gesture honors the student’s achievement while reflecting the governor’s personal values and faith.
This recognition of Abdullahi Sherif underscores the importance of academic excellence and serves as an inspiration to other students striving for success in their educational endeavors.