By Danjuma Attah, Gombe
The Federal University Gashua, Yobe State, plans to launch itself as an excellent hub for biotechnology, information technology, cyber security, software engineering, entrepreneurship and Islamic banking and finance by 2031.
This strategic plan (2026-2031) which was developed during a three-day retreat, reaffirms the institution’s commitment to innovation, digital transformation and sustainable growth.
At the commencement of the programme, Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Yaqub Ahmed Gaidam, described the retreat as a “foundational exercise” expected to shape the future identity, priorities, and direction of the University.
He noted that since assuming office on 11th February, 2026, he had undertaken a broad assessment of the institution, engaging stakeholders and evaluating both human and financial resources emphasizing that, the development of the plan within his first 100 days in office was a deliberate move to provide clear direction and position the University for excellence.
According to him, “Federal University Gashua stands today at a defining moment in its development trajectory,” while highlighting the institution’s unique role in expanding access to quality education and addressing environmental, economic, and social challenges, particularly within the Sahel region.
While emphasizing on environmental sustainability, the Vice-Chancellor stressed the importance of the FUGA Green Code initiative as a central pillar of the University’s identity, given its location in a fragile ecological zone.
Professor Yaqub also pointed out the need for structured student population growth supported by adequate infrastructure and strong student services, as well as a robust digital transformation agenda driven by blended learning and modern Learning Management Systems.
Speaking on governance and inclusivity, he called for a results-driven plan with clear performance indicators, monitoring frameworks, and accountability mechanisms to ensure effective implementation, noting that the success of the strategic plan would depend on the extent to which it reflects the collective aspirations of stakeholders.
The institution’s Head, Information and Public Relations, Adamu Saleh, told our correspondent that the retreat featured distinguished resource persons such as Professor J.D. Amin, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri; Professor Aliyu Suleiman Kantudu of the Virtual Institute for Capacity Building in Higher Education.
Others are; Professor Mohammed D. Madawaki; Professor Mustapha Bala Abubakar; Professor Halima Idrisa Gambo; Professor Fatima Alfa Tahir; and Professor Hamidu Usman.
Their expertise enriched deliberations and ensured the development of a forward-looking, realistic, and globally competitive strategic document.
The retreat also had in attendance, key stakeholders of the institution such as members of Council, University Management, deans, directors, heads of departments, staff unions, students, and representatives of Flexisaf Edusoft Consult.
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