The Department of Political Science in collaboration with the Ambassador Bulus Lolo Centre for Diplomacy, Conflict, Peace and Plural Studies, held its maiden Mock African Union Summit at the University’s main campus in Karu, Nasarawa State.

In his opening address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Haruna Kuje Ayuba, warmly welcomed the participants and commended both the Department and the Centre for their dedication and foresight in organizing such a timely and impactful event. He described the summit as a strategic platform for grooming future African leaders, enhancing understanding of continental affairs, and promoting diplomacy, leadership, and peacebuilding among students.

The Vice-Chancellor lauded the African Union’s ongoing efforts in promoting unity and development across the continent while addressing critical socio-political and economic challenges. He expressed optimism that the summit would serve as a valuable educational experience for students, equipping them with practical knowledge of diplomacy, negotiation, conflict resolution, and regional integration.

The summit featured a keynote address by the President of Malawi and Chairperson of the African Union Summit 2025, H.E. Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera represented by, Martha Obadiah a 400 level student, who spoke on the theme: Constitutional Amendment and Political Instability in Africa. She emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles and fostering sustainable development, noting that the continent stands at a crossroads—between progress and uncertainty.

Similarly, the Secretary-General of the United Nations H.E Antonio Guterres represented, by Nicolas Lydia a 100 level student, while addressing the summit, acknowledged the increasing trend of constitutional amendments and political unrest across Africa. She stated that while constitutional reform is not inherently negative, it must be approached with sincerity, transparency, and a commitment to justice. She called for renewed efforts to ensure democratic governance, fair elections, and a united front against unconstitutional changes in leadership.

She reaffirmed Malawi’s commitment to democratic values and challenged other African leaders and institutions to protect democratic principles and be champions of Africa’s rebirth.

Student delegates representing various African nations—including Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Togo, Uganda, Ghana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Africa, Niger, Burkina Faso, Senegal, and Zambia—delivered presentations addressing pressing continental challenges and proposing collaborative solutions.

Also speaking at the event, a representative of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ambassador Olabode Ojo, commended the initiative and praised the students for their impressive performance, noting that their presentations accurately reflected the complexities and realities of Africa’s political landscape.

The Director of the Ambassador Bulus Lolo Centre for Diplomacy, Conflict, Peace and Plural Studies, Dr. Shola John Magbadelo in his closing remarks, expressed profound appreciation to the University Management, the Vice-Chancellor, faculty members, and students for their support and active participation, which contributed to the summit’s resounding success.

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Directorate of Public Affairs 

Office of the Vice-Chancellor 

Bingham University