The Vice-Chancellor of Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu, Professor Ndukwe J. Okeudo, on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, and entire university community, extends a warm and cordial invitation to distinguished members of the academia, proud parents and guardians, alumni, industry leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, religious dignitaries, well-wishers, and all stakeholders to join in the grand celebration of the 30th, 31st, and 32nd Combined Convocation Ceremony.
This landmark historic event honors the outstanding academic achievements, resilience, perseverance, and societal contributions of the graduands from the 2022/2023, 2023/2024, and 2024/2025 academic sessions. By uniting three successive cohorts in one majestic ceremony, ABSU reaffirms its steadfast dedication to academic excellence, institutional resilience, inclusive recognition of merit, and the nurturing of ethical, innovative, and globally competitive leaders poised to drive Nigeria’s progress.
Pre-Convocation Activities
The convocation festivities commence with a high-profile Pre-Convocation Press Briefing to be presided over by the Vice-Chancellor. This important session is scheduled for Tuesday, 24th March 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Senate Chamber, Main Campus, Uturu.
The briefing will offer detailed insights into the university’s recent academic milestones, highlight the remarkable accomplishments of the graduating sets, outline logistical preparations for a seamless experience, and articulate ABSU’s forward-looking vision for quality education, research innovation, and community impact. Members of the press, faculty, staff, parents, and other key stakeholders are strongly encouraged to attend, providing an excellent opportunity for engagement and deeper appreciation of the university’s transformative role.
Convocation Schedule and Highlights
The core convocation events are thoughtfully structured to blend solemn academic tradition with inspirational discourse and celebratory grandeur:
- Pre-Convocation Lecture On Thursday, 26th March 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the University Auditorium, a distinguished Pre-Convocation Lecture will be delivered by Professor Bart Nnaji, renowned engineer, founder of Geometric Power, and former Honourable Minister of Power, Federal Republic of Nigeria. The lecture will explore pivotal themes of innovation, visionary leadership, technological advancement, and sustainable national development, delivering profound, actionable insights to inspire graduands and the wider audience on harnessing higher education to tackle contemporary challenges and propel Nigeria toward greater prosperity.
- Main Convocation Ceremony and Conferment The grand finale and statutory conferment proceedings are scheduled for Friday, 27th March 2026, commencing promptly at the University Auditorium (with seating advised by 9:30 a.m. to witness the majestic Academic Procession). Highlights include:
- Formal conferment of First Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s Degrees, and Doctorates upon thousands of qualified graduands, affirming their fulfillment of the Senate’s rigorous standards in characterand learning.
- Presentation of merit prizes, awards, and special recognitions for exceptional academic performance, research excellence, leadership, and contributions to university life.
- Award of Honorary Doctorate Degrees (Honoris Causa) to eminent luminaries whose exemplary service has profoundly shaped national and global landscapes:
- His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), Ooni of Ife — in tribute to his unparalleled stewardship of Yoruba cultural heritage, promotion of unity, peacebuilding, and socio-economic empowerment across Nigeria.
- Dr. Barr. Allen Onyema, Chairman/CEO, Air Peace Limited — celebrated for pioneering aviation excellence, entrepreneurial ingenuity, massive job creation, and elevating Nigeria’s global aviation profile.
- Dr. Stella Chinyelu Okoli, Group Managing Director, Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited — honored for groundbreaking contributions to pharmaceutical innovation, healthcare accessibility, women’s empowerment in STEM, and advancements in national and international health security.
Academic Regalia, Brochure, and Logistical Arrangements
To participate fully in the ceremonial aspects:
- Academic Regalia Hiring Fees:
- Higher Degrees: ₦20,000
- First Degrees: ₦15,000
- Convocation Brochure (commemorative keepsake featuring graduands’ names, program details, leadership messages, and historical highlights): Included in the package. All payments must be made promptly at the Abia State University Micro-Finance Bank, Uturu, or other university-approved banks. Collection of regalia and brochures commences from Wednesday, 25th March 2026. Graduands are urged to complete clearances, settle dues, and collect items early to ensure smooth participation.
Significance and Call to Participation
This combined convocation transcends routine ceremony—it symbolizes ABSU’s triumph over challenges, unwavering pursuit of excellence, and deep-rooted commitment to producing graduates of integrity, competence, and societal value. It offers graduands a reflective moment to acknowledge the sacrifices of families, mentors, and the institution while launching them into impactful professional lives.
All attendees—graduands in full regalia, families, guests, and dignitaries—are requested to arrive early (seated by 9:30 a.m.) for orderly proceedings, security protocols, and the traditional Academic Procession led by the Vice-Chancellor, Senate, Deans, and faculty.
Concluding Message
The 30th–32nd Combined Convocation Ceremony marks a defining chapter in Abia State University’s illustrious history—a vibrant testament to resilience, academic distinction, and the power of education to transform lives and nations. Under Professor Ndukwe J. Okeudo’s visionary leadership, ABSU continues to prioritize quality, inclusivity, innovation, and ethical leadership.
We heartily congratulate the graduands of the 2022/2023, 2023/2024, and 2024/2025 sessions on this well-deserved triumph. The entire ABSU family eagerly awaits your presence and participation in what promises to be a dignified, inspiring, and unforgettable celebration of knowledge, achievement, and shared pride.
Issued by the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, Abia State University, Uturu.
