The Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Professor Adamu Ahmed, has reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s public service through quality education, professional training, and digital innovation.
Professor Ahmed made the commitment during a courtesy visit by the university’s management team to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, in Abuja.
He described public service as a core part of ABU’s historic mandate, noting that the university, particularly through its Institute of Administration, has played a pivotal role in building Nigeria’s administrative capacity by training generations of public servants serving at the federal, state, and local government levels.
“It is a legacy we are proud of, and we remain committed to strengthening the effort,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
Professor Ahmed disclosed that the university has made significant investments in modern teaching and learning infrastructure. He said strategic partnerships with Chinese technology companies, K-MAX and CreateView, have enabled the establishment of smart classrooms and the deployment of virtual reality technologies to enhance teaching, professional training, and skills development.
According to him, the initiatives are aimed at preparing graduates and professionals for the digital economy and the emerging era of artificial intelligence.
The Vice-Chancellor also commended Mrs. Walson-Jack for driving reforms within the Federal Civil Service, describing her efforts to build a technology-driven, innovation-oriented, and globally competitive civil service as commendable.
He noted that ABU was particularly encouraged by her emphasis on digital transformation, technology-enabled public service delivery, and the use of digital learning platforms to equip civil servants with the skills required for the future of work.
Professor Ahmed expressed the university’s readiness to establish a lasting partnership with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation in advancing capacity development and public sector reforms.
Responding, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, appreciated the Vice-Chancellor and members of his delegation for the visit.
She highlighted ongoing Federal Government initiatives aimed at digitalising Nigeria’s civil service and encouraged Ahmadu Bello University to keep her office informed of training programmes and conferences that would benefit civil servants to facilitate participation.