Education Investment Tops Buhari's Legacy, Says Aisha Buhari

Hajiya Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, Nigeria's former First Lady, declared on Sunday that her late husband, ex-President Muhammadu Buhari's most significant contribution was his steadfast dedication to advancing education and developing human resources. She made this assertion during the foundation-laying ceremony for a new Computer Science Complex at Al-Qalam University in Katsina.

Funding for this project is being sourced from the revenues generated by the book 'From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari,' a publication detailing the life and public service of the former Nigerian leader. Addressing distinguished guests at the event, Aisha Buhari articulated that this initiative serves as tangible proof of the family's commitment to upholding Buhari's legacy through fostering knowledge and innovation, rather than erecting physical monuments.

“Today marks far more than the commencement of a new building; it marks the beginning of a vision that equips future generations with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” she stated. She further highlighted that the Computer Science Complex would stand as “a lasting testament to the enduring legacy of our late leader, General Muhammadu Buhari, whose life was defined by duty, discipline, integrity and unwavering commitment to national development.”

The former First Lady also explained that converting the book's proceeds into an educational facility underscores the belief that “the greatest memorial we can build is not merely one of concrete and steel, but one that nurtures knowledge, character and opportunity for generations yet unborn.” She emphasized that as technological advancements increasingly steer global development, nations that prioritize investments in computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software engineering, and digital innovation are poised to shape the future. She offered prayers for the institution, expressing hope that every lecture delivered within the complex would inspire excellence, and every graduate would combine integrity with intelligence to propel the development of Katsina State, Nigeria, and the African continent.

Professor Nasiru Musa Yauri, the Vice-Chancellor of Al-Qalam University, hailed the project as a pivotal intervention destined to revolutionize the instruction and study of computing-related disciplines at the institution. “It is very dear to our hearts, a project that promises to bring unquantifiable benefits to our community,” Yauri remarked. He detailed that the complex would feature two lecture halls, each accommodating 150 students, a 200-seat auditorium, three computer laboratories equipped with 50 computers apiece, and offices for 20 academic staff, complete with furnishings and computers, alongside other essential supporting amenities.

According to Prof. Yauri, while Computer Science has been available at the university since 2005, it had never before possessed specialized infrastructure of this magnitude. “This is the first time we are having full facilities for training our students in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity and Software Engineering,” he confirmed, adding that this intervention would substantially boost hands-on education, research, and innovation.

Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, whose deputy, Faruk Lawal Jobe, represented him at the ceremony, commended the Buhari family for upholding the late president's principles through investments in education. “This edifice is a remarkable achievement. It is contributing towards education and knowledge, and there is no greater investment than one that enlightens society,” the governor's representative stated. He also lauded Aisha Buhari for continuing to advocate for educational initiatives even after the former president's demise. “We thank you most sincerely for championing the cause of education even after the demise of our father, Muhammadu Buhari, because this is something he stood for,” he added.

The event drew a diverse audience, including government officials, traditional rulers, academics, development partners, members of the university community, and other invited guests. Upon its completion, the Computer Science Complex is anticipated to bolster Al-Qalam University’s digital infrastructure, enhance research and practical training in computing disciplines, and solidify the institution’s standing as one of Northern Nigeria’s emerging hubs for technology education.