The former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Attahiru Jega, has called on private universities in Nigeria to emulate the standards and development model of North Eastern University (NEU) in Gombe.
He made this statement during a courtesy visit to NEU recently, where he was received by the Pro-Chancellor & Founder, Dr Sani Jauro (Danlawan of Gombe), the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Yusuph Amuda Yahaya, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Dr Sani Isyaka, the Registrar, Hauwa Abubakar, and other senior management staff.
Welcoming the distinguished guest to the Council Chamber, Dr Jauro expressed profound appreciation for the visit and briefed him on the University’s mission, progress in academic development, research culture, and its commitment to building one of the finest private universities in Nigeria.
He emphasised NEU’s focus on quality education, innovation, and strong moral values that shape students into responsible citizens.
Following the Founder’s address, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Dr Sani Isyaka, delivered a concise four-point overview presentation on the University. His presentation highlighted: Academic Growth and Programme Strength covering NEU’s NUC-approved programmes, quality assurance systems, and standards, Research and Innovation Capacity, including the establishment of specialised centres such as the campus.
He noted that these pillars represent the University’s unique strength and long-term strategic direction.
Speaking afterwards, the Vice-Chancellor of North-Eastern University, Prof. Yusuph Amuda Yahaya, described Professor Jega’s commendation as “powerful encouragement and a strong validation of NEU’s academic and institutional trajectory.
He reaffirmed the University’s commitment to strengthening research, maintaining quality standards, and consolidating NEU’s position as a model for Nigerian tertiary institutions.
In his remarks, Professor Jega expressed deep admiration for NEU’s infrastructure, serene environment, and forward-looking academic vision.
He stated that while many private universities focus primarily on profit, NEU is clearly built on a foundation of purpose, excellence, and national development.
He urged other universities, public and private, to learn from NEU’s approach of prioritising student development, research productivity, and practical knowledge.
Professor Jega commended its world-class laboratories, noting that such investment in scientific research is rare and transformative.
