The Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) held the maiden retreat for its Governing Council and Management staff from July 13th to 16th, 2025. The event, which took place at the Army Officers' Mess and Suites in Sokoto, aimed at charting a path for growth and governance, and brought together key stakeholders to deliberate on pressing issues and future-focused strategies for institutional growth.
The retreat happened on the sidelines of the 30th meeting of the Council, chaired by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University's Governing Council, Col. Abdulmumini Aminu (Rtd.).
In his address, Col. Aminu emphasized the importance of visionary leadership and synergy between the Council and Management in steering the University toward greater heights.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Muhammad Zaiyan Umar, described the retreat as timely, highlighting its significance in fostering strategic alignment, institutional sustainability, and improved service delivery across the University system.
The intellectual highlight of the retreat featured the presentation of four thought-provoking papers by renowned resource persons. The first, "Campus Security and Intelligence: Enhancing Early Warning Signals in Tertiary Institutions," was delivered by Mr. Lawal Yusuf Yashi, Deputy Director of Operations, Department of State Services (DSS), Kebbi State Command.
Prof. Yahaya Tanko Baba of the Department of Political Science, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, presented "Governing Councils and Corporate Governance in Tertiary Institutions," offering insights on best practices in university governance and the responsibilities of Council in policy oversight.
Prof. Maryam Abubakar Koko of the National Agricultural Development Fund, Abuja, presented "The Next Frontier: How FUBK Can Thrive Through Innovation and Strategic Partnerships for Sustainable Revenue," outlining models for diversifying university revenue through innovation, research commercialization and industry partnerships.
The retreat concluded with a paper titled "Building Enduring Collaborative Relationships between Universities and External Stakeholders: Town and Gown Partnerships," by the Registrar of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Mal. Ahmad Shehu.
FUBK Bulletin reports that participants resolved to strengthen institutional structures, foster collaboration, and implement forward-looking policies to enhance the University's performance and reputation.