Bingham University on Thursday 16th April 2026 took a decisive step toward healing a three-year division in its alumni body with the inauguration of an Interim Administration for the Bingham University Alumni Association. The ceremony, brought together representatives from both factions, Principal Officers, Senate and Management Committee members of the university, and the BHU Reconciliation/Mediation Team led by Rev Aliu Oludare.

Vice Chancellor Professor Haruna Kuje Ayuba described the day as a milestone, noting that the split had hindered the Alumni’s collective progress and impact. He thanked God for the efforts of management and the reconciliation team, and praised the presence of both factions as “a powerful symbol of the spirit of reconciliation, unity, and shared purpose.” “Your selection by your group to serve is a testimony to the faith and trust they have in your potential to bring healing, reconciliation, and unity,” Prof Ayuba told the new interim members. Reflecting on Philippians 4:1-3, he charged the Interim Administration to foster unity, encourage understanding, forgiveness, and collaboration, and to conduct an election that will produce a united BHU Alumni Association. “Only through reconciliation and unity can we truly make a meaningful and lasting impact on our university’s progress and future,” he said, adding that management sees alumni not just as former students, but as cherished partners and ambassadors who carry the legacy of the institution. 

Earlier in the ceremony, Rev. Henry Marcus Garba drew lessons from 1 Corinthians 1:10-11, charging the association to pursue unity for impact and warned that disunity negates impact and misrepresents Christ. In his exhortation, Rev. Henry noted that unity is not an end in itself but a means for effective witness.

Referencing Paul’s rebuke of factions loyal to Paul, Apollos, or Cephas, he stressed that true unity is Christ-centered, not leader-centered, and is essential for the health and growth of the church. where there is envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and all kinds of evil practices, he warned. Applying the text to the Alumni, he added: “Bingham University anticipates a united Alumni for the progress of this institution. ‘I appeal to all of us to see today’s ceremony beyond personal interest, but because of God’. He pleaded that the unity be not just in words but in minds and thoughts and genuinely rooted in the values of Christ and the vision and mission of Bingham University.

Chairman of the Alumni Mediation Committee, Rev Oludare Aliu, called the inauguration an important milestone after more than three years of division. He recounted the committee’s journey since its formation by the Vice Chancellor in September 2024. The initial team of Mrs. Anne Madugu and Rev Aliu was later expanded to include Mr. Paul Yusuf, Prof. John Aiyedogbon, and Dr. Sabastine Abu. Rev Aliu noted that the first meeting at Prince and Princess Estate, Abuja, raised hopes of an early breakthrough. Several physical and online meetings followed before both sides agreed to form a unity government and submit nominees.  

The Interim Administration members are: Mr. Alexander Olokun, Chairman; Mrs. Dina Simon Simda; Mr. Jenom Maikori; Hon. Dr. Mathew Yare; Dr. Jerry Dandaura; Mr. Solomon Auta; Mr. Joshua Olusunde; and Ms. Celestina Yusuf, Secretary.

Addressing concerns about the university’s role, Rev Aliu stated that intervention was lawful and necessary. “You cannot bear someone’s name and not be subject to the person,” he said, citing the institution’s laws and the Alumni constitution. He prayed that the Alumni would bear fruits of progress and godliness.”

The Registered Board of Trustees of AABHU tasked the Caretaker Committee to restore member confidence and dismantle divisions that have troubled the association. Speaking on behalf of the Board, Rev. Amb. Gospel Ike Chuks saluted Alumni who have given all to see the survival of this association, naming Ibukun Aluko Samson, Dr. Chibuzor Keneolisa Samuelson, Avindi Titus Teryma, Achenyo Abu, Mr. Kingsley Artimas, Odofin Felix, Emmanuel Teryingua, Alexander Olokun, Ashidi Mamma, Emmanuel Bello, and so many others.

He thanked the Vice Chancellor and his Administration for being great parents to the association, noting the Vice Chancellor made it a duty that everyone came together under one umbrella without any form of sentiment or prejudice.  Given the enormous work that lies ahead, Rev. Chuks outlined four key expectations:  Return the confidence and interest of members to the Association. Ensure proper amendment of the Constitution to accommodate all and provide a level playing field, completely obliterate the set dichotomy that has bedeviled the association. Call for a congress to ratify the exercise as enshrined in the constitution, to foster inclusivity and inform the General Assembly.  

He stressed the committee must work according to laid down rules and regulations, warning that any form of interference will make the members lose interest as it will be mistaken as a department of the university. He pledged continued support for the Interim Administration’s success.  

Newly appointed interim Chairman Mr. Alexander Lanzema Olokun formally accepted the role, pledging swift delivery of the committee’s terms of reference and calling on all factions to shield their swords for healing.  He thanked the Vice Chancellor for his commitment to unity and appreciated the Reconciliation/Mediation Committee for unwavering commitment and sacrifices that has given birth to the Interim Administration. He also commended the two former factions for sacrificing their executive offices and structure for the unity of the association, describing it as proof of sincere love for the association. Acknowledging that disputes are common in an association and also needed to understand the assignment and task better, Olokun said the team would count on members’ support. “We plead that both factions shield their swords, allow wounds heal so we can achieve the collective goals of our beloved association,” he stated. 

“We accept the appointment and we assure everyone that the terms and reference of our appointment will be delivered in record time,” he declared

Barrister Ann Madugu emphasized reviewing the association’s constitution to sustain the newfound peace. The formal proceedings was followed by administration of the oath of office by Notary Public, Barrister Victoria Ochebu.

Thereafter a group photograph was taken to mark the end of the ceremony.

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Directorate of Public Affairs 

Office of the Vice-Chancellor 

Bingham University