Renowned entrepreneur and founder of multiple universities, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, was celebrated during the inaugural Prof. Gwarzo Public Lecture held at the Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Research and Training (Mambayya House) in Kano.
Organized by Adnan Mukhtar & Associates to mark his 47th birthday, the event highlighted Prof. Gwarzo’s dedication to mentoring and empowering youth, as well as his significant contributions to affordable and quality education in Nigeria.
The keynote address, delivered by Mr. Yushau A. Shuaib, Editor-in-Chief of PRNigeria and Economic Confidential, explored the theme “Social Media in Nation Building.”
Mr. Shuaib lauded Prof. Gwarzo for his visionary leadership in establishing universities such as the Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Franco-British International University, and the Canadian University of Nigeria. These institutions integrate digital tools into their infrastructure and curriculum, equipping students with critical technological skills.
Shuaib emphasized that the Northern region is home to many individuals who are effectively utilizing modern tools like social media to foster development. He praised Prof. Gwarzo’s philanthropic initiatives and investments in education, describing them as pivotal in combating societal challenges such as illiteracy, insecurity, and poverty.
“Prof. Gwarzo is not just an edupreneur; he has made significant strides in providing access to quality education and empowering youth and women,” Shuaib noted. He further urged more young individuals to embrace community development roles outside of politics to address the region’s pressing issues.
Shuaib also touched on the dual nature of social media, recognizing its potential to enhance civic engagement and transparency while cautioning against the dangers of misinformation and hate speech. He cited examples of Northern influencers who are positively utilizing social media, including former presidential aides Nasir Adhama and Bashir Ahmed, journalist Jaafar Jaafar, and broadcaster Bello Galadanci.
Dr. Sule Yau Sule, chairman of the event and a senior lecturer at Bayero University Kano, echoed the call for collaborative efforts to address social challenges. He commended Prof. Gwarzo for his scholarship programs and affordable tuition initiatives, which have expanded access to higher education for many.
Representing Prof. Gwarzo, Prof. Muhammad Israr, President of MAAUN, expressed gratitude to the organizers and emphasized the importance of responsible leadership. He urged leaders to foster unity, prioritize education, and create opportunities for their teams to thrive, underscoring that societal change begins with individual actions.
The convener, Adnan Mukhtar, announced that the public lecture would become an annual event to honor Prof. Gwarzo’s enduring impact on education, empowerment, and philanthropy.
