By Andrew Abah, Abuja
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hon. Ayo Hulayat Omidiran, has reiterated her commitment to strengthening national unity, equity and inclusive representation, while pledging her support for initiatives that advance education, youth empowerment and sports development in Nigeria.
Hon. Omidiran made the pledge on Thursday when she received the management of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adamu Ahmed, on a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
The FCC Executive Chairman, an alumna of the institution, expressed deep appreciation to the University’s Governing Council and management for the honour of the visit, describing Ahmadu Bello University as the foundation upon which her leadership journey was built.
“I remain immensely proud to be an alumna of Ahmadu Bello University. The University shaped my character, broadened my perspective and prepared me for the responsibilities of leadership and national service. I will always cherish the institution and remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote education, national development and youth empowerment,” Omidiran said.
The FCC Boss welcomed the University’s request for closer collaboration, particularly commending Ahmadu Bello University’s emergence as host of the 2028 Nigeria University Games (NUGA) and one of the nation’s designated National Centres of Excellence in Sports, describing both achievements as strategic opportunities to nurture young talent and strengthen Nigeria’s sports ecosystem.
The former lawmaker also accepted the University’s invitation to participate in its 64th Anniversary celebrations scheduled for October 4, 2026, expressing delight at the opportunity to reconnect with her alma mater and celebrate its enduring legacy.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Professor Adamu Ahmed, paid glowing tributes to Omidiran, describing her as one of the University’s most distinguished alumni whose outstanding achievements in public service and sports administration continue to inspire generations of students.
“As an alumna of Ahmadu Bello University, where you obtained your Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and served as Student Union Government Secretary of Queen Amina Hall, you exemplify the values of leadership, excellence, integrity and service that our University seeks to instil in its graduates,” Professor Ahmed said.
The Vice-Chancellor praised Omidiran’s distinguished career as a two-term Member of the House of Representatives, pioneering member of FIFA’s Women’s Committee, Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Olympic Committee, founder of Omidiran Babes Football Club and now Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission.
“We sincerely appreciate the honour you bring to your alma mater through your exemplary leadership and achievements,” he said.
“We are particularly delighted by the progress being recorded by the Federal Character Commission under your leadership. Your commitment to promoting equity, fairness, national cohesion and inclusive representation resonates strongly with the ideals upon which Ahmadu Bello University was founded as Nigeria’s foremost cosmopolitan university,” he said.
Describing the FCC Chairman as an accomplished sports administrator with exceptional experience in Nigerian and international sports, Professor Ahmed said her guidance would be invaluable in helping the University deliver a successful NUGA Games and establish a world-class sports development centre.
“These landmark developments present enormous opportunities for the University to contribute to sports development, talent discovery and youth empowerment. We look forward to drawing upon your vast experience, guidance and support as we prepare to deliver a memorable NUGA Games and build a Centre of Excellence that will become a national model for sports development,” the Vice-Chancellor posited.
