By Angela Atabo
The Ambrose Alli University (AAU) Alumni Association, has pledged support in infrastructure development, mentorship and public policy advocacy to strengthen the university and contribute to national development.
The association said this at the 2025 AAU Alumni Association, FCT Branch’s 2025 annual event.
Dr Mojisola-Mimi Abu, the Chair of the occasion and an alumna of the university, stressed the need for interventions for the benefits of universities and the nation.
Abu said that the alumni association’s work was far beyond nostalgia or social interaction.
She said that members were actively supporting the university, mentoring younger graduates and collaborating to improve their collective welfare.
“We have a structured way of intervention, both in infrastructure and other things, and in issues that affect the alumni and the university .
“We come together and plan and take a decision and ensure that it is seen to implementation and everything works out perfectly.
“The association is there to ensure that we mentor, we guard and we guide the alumni and the university,” she said.
Abu said that one of the association’s landmark initiatives was the development of an alumni housing estate.
Dr Abraham Isibor, immediate past Chairman of the association, highlighted the critical role alumni associations play in supporting their alma mater, especially in the face of funding and infrastructural challenges.
”As soon as you pass through university, there is every tendency that whatever you become in life, it is that university that gave you the platform
“It is that university that made you to acquire a functional education to be able to function in the society.
“You discover that most of the universities are struggling in terms of development, inadequate funds. So the alumni association has a lot of ways to assist,” he said
Drawing inspiration from the late Prof. Ambrose Alli, Isibo said that political leaders should learn from his legacy of selfless service and commitment to the people.
Dr Peter Orobo, Chairman of the AAU Alumni Association, FCT Branch,said that one of the core objectives of the association was to foster unity across generations of graduates.
Orobo said that mentorship remained a strong pillar of the association, with senior professionals in different fields guiding and empowering younger alumni, especially during its annual lecture series.
Orobo said that the association collaborates with government agencies and professionals through public lectures, outreach programmes and civic education to address issues such as crime, youth restiveness and social vices.
He said that the association also engages in humanitarian efforts, including the distribution of food items to vulnerable persons during the festive season.
Commending the Edo State Government for recent investments in AAU, particularly in hostel construction, Orobo urged authorities to sustain and expand their support for education.
Chief Premier Bello, Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), FCT Chapter. described the gathering as a celebration of education and visionary leadership.
“We are here to honour those who built great institutions and to remind ourselves of our responsibilities.
“Education is the foundation for nation-building, and governments at all levels must prioritise it,” he said. (NAN)