By Khalid Idris Doya
Bauchi - Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) has denied allegations of issuing illegal postgraduate certificates to students of its affiliate institution, the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (FCAHPT), Vom. In a press release, the university's Director of Information and Public Relations, Mr. Zailani Bappa, described a media report alleging the university's contravention of National Universities Commission (NUC) rules as misleading and damaging.
"The management of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University has noted with grave concern, a publication by an online medium, The Premium Times, on Saturday, 21st June, 2025, with the caption 'Nigerian College Undertakes Illegal Academic Programme', and, in it, the name of the University was implicated," the statement read.
Bappa explained that FCAHPT, Vom, is one of seven institutions affiliated with ATBU. The college had applied to run both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes under the university's Faculty of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, but the NUC only approved the undergraduate programme. Based on this, the ATBU Senate declined the postgraduate affiliation request, a decision that was communicated to the college.
"We are highly disappointed in this publication, for the fact that the representative of this medium has contacted our Public Relations Directorate where he was categorically informed that the University has no intention to, and will not award illegal certificates to any students of its affiliated institutions," Bappa stated. "It has never done that before and will not start now."
Bappa expressed dismay that the reporter ignored the university's official position and published false and damaging information. ATBU emphasized its commitment to academic excellence, discipline, and high academic standards, and reassured stakeholders of its unwavering commitment to quality education.
The university added that it will never compromise its academic standards or permit any affiliate institution to undermine its reputation. "It is therefore regrettable that Premium Times will cross the line of good journalism ethics and publish a story intended to directly bruise the good name of the University," Bappa said.
ATBU reiterated its commitment to pursuing quality, legally acquired education and its goal of attaining world-class university status for the benefit of Nigerian youth and others.
Tags
Education