BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, OCTOBER 14, 2025 | 12:57 PM

The Vice-Chancellor of Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri, Prof. Babagana Gutti, has called on alumni associations across Nigeria to unite in driving social progress, economic growth, and national unity.

Prof. Gutti made this appeal while delivering the keynote address at the 2025 Annual General Congress of the Federal Government College Maiduguri Old Students Association (FEGOCOMOSA).

The event took place on October 4 at the National Centre for Women Development in Abuja.

Speaking on the theme “From Classrooms to Nation-Building: The Role of Alumni Networks in Driving Social and Economic Development,” the Vice-Chancellor described alumni networks as one of the most underused yet powerful engines of transformation in Nigeria.

He said friendships formed in school are rooted in sincerity and trust.

He noted that these friendships transcend ethnicity, religion, and social status, making them vital platforms for unity and national cohesion.

'These friendships, though born in innocence, often mature into networks of influence, philanthropy, and collaboration that extend far beyond personal gain,' he said.

Prof. Gutti stressed that alumni networks continue to play vital roles in education, mentorship, and community development.

He said many alumni contribute to their former schools through scholarships, infrastructure support, and mentoring programs for younger students.

Citing FEGOCOMOSA’s efforts, he said the association has helped sustain excellence at Federal Government College Maiduguri through donations, mentorship programs, and social projects.

'Alumni mentorship programs have produced global leaders in many countries, and Nigeria can replicate such models,' he added.

Beyond education, Prof. Gutti said alumni associations have become vehicles for entrepreneurship, investment, and policy advocacy.

He explained that many classmates now reunite to establish successful businesses, leveraging the trust built during their school years.

'Some associations have formed cooperatives, credit unions, and investment clubs that channel funds into agriculture, real estate, and technology ventures,' he said.

According to him, such collaborations create jobs, empower members, and strengthen local economies.

Prof. Gutti also emphasized that alumni unity can influence policy reforms and promote accountability in governance.

He cited global examples, such as the Harvard Business School Alumni Angels of Greater New York, to show how alumni groups can fund and mentor startups.

He added that Nigerian alumni associations are also quietly supporting small businesses and empowering communities.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that alumni networks remain symbols of unity in a country often divided by ethnicity and religion.

'Alumni associations like FEGOCOMOSA are living proof that our diversity can be a source of strength,' he said.

He praised the association’s members for their social initiatives, including building boreholes, sponsoring medical outreaches, and supporting youth empowerment programs.

'The journey from classrooms to nation-building is not abstract — it is our lived reality,' he said.

He noted that the friendships formed in school have matured into networks capable of reshaping communities and driving development.

Prof. Gutti urged members to continue supporting education and to use their influence for collective prosperity.

'Alumni associations like FEGOCOMOSA are not just social clubs,' he said.

'They are vital architects of the Nigeria we seek to build.'

He ended his speech with heartfelt appreciation to teachers, saying, 'What you taught us made us who we are today.'

'Words are not enough to express our gratitude,' he added.

'From classrooms, we have come. To nation-building, we must commit,' Prof. Gutti declared, as the audience responded with loud applause.