The Founder of Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, has been invited to deliver the Convocation Lecture at the 13th Graduation Ceremony of the International Open University (IOU) in Banjul, The Gambia.
Professor Gwarzo will also serve as the Special Guest of Honour at the ceremony scheduled for Friday, January 22, 2027, at 5:30 p.m. at the OIC Conference Centre in Banjul.
The invitation was contained in a letter signed by the Vice-Chancellor and President of IOU, Professor Makie Taal.
According to the university, Gwarzo was invited in recognition of his longstanding contributions to higher education and his experience in establishing and leading academic institutions.
The convocation lecture is expected to provide graduating students with insights and practical perspectives as they prepare to enter their respective professions and contribute to their communities.
In the invitation letter, Professor Taal said the university would be honoured to have Gwarzo share his experience and reflections with the graduates and the wider university community.
The ceremony will feature the conferment of degrees, presentation of academic honours and awards, as well as a celebration of the achievements of the graduating students. University officials, academics, dignitaries, graduates and their families are expected to attend.
Gwarzo, IOU strengthen academic ties
The invitation comes shortly after an IOU delegation led by Professor Taal visited Gwarzo in Kano in August 2026 to strengthen relations between the two institutions.
During the visit, the two sides discussed the activation of a previously signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IOU and MAAUN, with emphasis on expanding academic cooperation.
The proposed areas of collaboration include research, teaching, staff and student exchange, mentorship and internship opportunities.
Gwarzo is also the President of the Association of African Private Universities, a position that places him at the centre of efforts to advance private university education and academic collaboration across the continent.
The Banjul engagement is therefore expected to further strengthen his involvement in regional higher education development and deepen institutional ties between Nigerian and Gambian universities.
