The management of Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology has cancelled a planned students’ field trip to New Bussa in Niger following security concerns raised by parents and stakeholders.
The university said the decision was approved by the Vice Chancellor, Musa Yakasai, after reviewing reports surrounding the security situation in the proposed area for the eight-week mandatory field exercise meant for Level 400 Fisheries students.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Deputy Registrar, Information and Public Affairs, Abdullahi Datti Abdullahi, the institution explained that the vice chancellor had already rejected the proposed trip before public concerns intensified.
According to the statement, the university management was fully aware of the security challenges in the area and decided against exposing students to any potential danger.
“When the idea of going to New Bussa in Niger State came up, the Vice Chancellor, who was already aware of the security situations in the area, had long ago rejected the trip,” the statement said.
The university disclosed that the Department of Fisheries was later directed to identify a safer location for the exercise, leading to the selection of Tiga Dam in Kano.
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“The students are now going to Tiga Dam in Kano for the mandatory exercise,” the statement added.
The management stressed that the safety and welfare of students remain a top priority both on and off campus.
“The university management never jokes with students’ safety and welfare within and off campus,” Abdullahi stated.
The institution also appealed to parents and guardians to remain calm, assuring them that there was no plan to send students to any unsafe environment.
“There is no plan to take our students to New Bussa or any other unsecured areas for any activity,” the university assured.
The clarification followed widespread concerns reportedly expressed by parents over the earlier proposed trip involving more than 30 students to Niger State, where insecurity and violent attacks have remained major concerns in recent years.
