Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria has once again reaffirmed its place at the pinnacle of academic excellence, emerging as the overall best tertiary institution in Nigeria and receiving a prestigious N500 million Mega Award from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
The award was conferred during the 5th edition of the National Tertiary Admissions Performance-Merit Awards (NATAP-M) held in Abuja on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. The event celebrated outstanding institutions for their performance in the admission processes for the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic sessions.
ABU clinched the top prize with an impressive aggregate of 14 points, scoring high across all five evaluation criteria used by JAMB in the competitive award process. The victory reflects the university’s consistency in promoting merit, inclusivity, and transparency in student admissions.
The Honourable Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmed, presented the N500 million cheque and a certificate of excellence to ABU’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, at a well-attended ceremony. She was joined by the JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Olanrewaju Oloyede, and other senior officials of the board.
Representatives from ABU’s top management, including two Governing Council members—Prof. Mato D. Dogara and Dr. Claris Ujah—along with the University Registrar, Malam Rabiu Samaila, and Admissions Officer, Malam Mohammed Aminu Garba, witnessed the landmark occasion.
In his remarks, JAMB Registrar Prof. Oloyede explained that the NATAP-M awards were instituted to recognize institutions that promote national integration by admitting students from all parts of the country, uphold gender balance, and maintain a transparent, inclusive, and efficient admission process.
“The award is aimed at fostering national unity, encouraging internationalisation of our institutions, and ensuring transparency in the admissions process. It also aims to bridge gender gaps in tertiary education,” Prof. Oloyede said.
In an emotional acceptance speech, Prof. Adamu Ahmed expressed profound gratitude to JAMB for the honour and pledged that ABU would remain steadfast in its pursuit of excellence and innovation in higher education.
“We are deeply honoured by this recognition. This award belongs to every staff member, student, alumnus, and stakeholder who continues to believe in the mission and vision of Ahmadu Bello University. We will continue to uphold the standards that place Nigerian universities on the global map,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
He also appreciated the university’s Governing Council, Senate, and alumni for their tireless contributions to the institution’s ongoing success.
The N500 million award is expected to boost the university’s academic and infrastructural development, further reinforcing ABU’s standing as a leading institution not only in Nigeria but across Africa.