*Pro Chancellor Says Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed Lecture Theater a testament to what can be achieved
By JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
Chancellor of Greenfield University, HRH, Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli has described the Greenfield University, Kaduna as a mini Nigeria.
He expressed this at the commissioning of the Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed Lecture Theater, at the City Campus of Greenfield University on Thursday March 21, 2024.
“Greenfield University is a mini Nigeria where you find people from all over the country of diverse religions coming to study,” he said.
The Emir, who is the Chairman of Kaduna State Council of Traditional Rulers, prayed that the university would continue to grow and become one of the best in the country .
While declaring the occasion open, the Emir of Zazzau, said that he is proud to be part of the university
“If you go to the website of the university, you can see a lot that is being offered
“We are calling on all Nigerians to come to this place and benefit from the wealth of experience,” he said.
Speaking further, he said that he is happy that the lecture theater is being named after one of Nigeria’s best, Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed.
Founder/Pro Chancellor of Greenfield University, Engineer Simon Ifediora Nwakacha (Onwa of Umueri) affirming what the Emir said, explained that the university is indeed a mini Nigeria, owing to the fact that he as the founder Hails from the South East, the Rigistrar is from the North, Vice Chancellor from the South West and it’s students, drawn from all parts of the country.
In his welcome address, Chief Nwakacha said that innovators, and visionaries will gather to be inspired, challenged, and
empowered to make a positive impact on the world at Greenfield University.
“As we stand here today, we are not only celebrating the inauguration
of a building, but also commemorate the values and ideals that Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed embodies, integrity, excellence, and the relentless
pursuit of progress.
“Her leadership and contributions have set a standard for all of us to strive towards, and this lecture theater will serve as a constant reminder of the impact that passionate individuals can have on the world around them.
“I would like to express my deep gratitude to the management of
Greenfield University Kaduna for their foresight and commitment to
creating an environment that fosters academic excellence and
innovation. l extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the faculties, staff and students who have worked tirelessly to bring this vision to fruition, ensuring that the Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed Lecture Theater
stands as a beacon of educational advancement and inspiration,” he said.
He also recognised the continued support of their esteemed
Chancellor, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zazzau whose guidance
and dedication have played an integral role in the development and success of our university. His vision for excellence and unwavering commitment to the advancement of education have
instrumental in shaping the future of the institution.
He commended all dignitaries present for witnessing the impact of collective vision, passion, and dedication in creating a
space that will shape the minds and future of generations to come.
“The Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed Lecture Theater is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together with a shared purpose and a commitment to building a brighter future.
“May l also use this opportunity to pay our glowing tribute to the late
father of our celebrant, Malam Yahaya Hamza whose passion for education, his unwavering dedication to excellence and his visionary leadership have laid the foundation upon which we stand today.
“Malam Yahaya Hamza was an educationist per excellence and there is no way one can discuss the success of education in Nigeria today without mentioning the name of Malam Yahaya Hamza, may
Almighty God continue to bless his memory.
“As we embark on this new chapter in the history of Greenfield
University Kaduna, let us carry forward the spirit of innovation,
collaboration, and commitment to excellence that the Zainab
Shamsuna Ahmed Lecture Theater represents.
“May this space be a
catalyst for profound discoveries, transformative ideas, and enduring
legacies that will echo through the corridors of time,” he prayed.
In her acceptance speech, Hajiya Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed said that she was deeply moved by the gesture.
Represented by her sister, Commissioner, Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission, Hajiya Safiya Umar Balarabe said that she would have loved to be physically present, but was unavoidably absent, due.to some reasons beyond her control.
“May this lecture theatre, serve as a beacon of intellectual curiosity and academic excellence for generations to come.
And may it remind us all of the profound impact that each
of us can make when we dedicate ourselves to the pursuit ot
knowledge and the betterment of society,” she prayed.
She thanked and appreciated the Chancellor, Pro Chancellor, Vice Chancellor and the entire Management Staff of the university for finding her worthy to be part of the university by naming the theatre after her.
Speaking further, she said, “with this recognition, I consider myself part and parcel of the university and will continue to contribute my quota.
” I wish the university success and may it continue to grow from strength to strength.
On behalf of my extended and immediate family, I thank
you for this great honor and privilege”.
In a vote of thanks, Vice Chancellor Greenfield University, Prof John Olu-Coris Aiyedogbon said that the dignitaries present added immense value to the occasion, and they are truly grateful for their time and wisdom.
“A special word of thanks goes out to our dedicated faculty members and staff who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the smooth running of
this event.
“Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence are truly
commenda ble, and we are grateful for all that you do to support our university community,” he said.
Representative of SA Gbagyi, Dr. Ishaku Yari Sarkin Kudenda, Jarman Gbagyi, Mr. Yerima was also one of the dignitaries present.