The administration of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare (FUHSA), Bauchi State, has cautioned newly enrolled students against cult activities and other societal ills, emphasizing that such behaviors will be unacceptable under any circumstances.
This comes as the university welcomed a total of 1,448 fresh students into its diverse academic programs for the 2025/2026 academic year.
The matriculation event, conducted on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the temporary campus of the university in Azare, the administrative center of Katagum Local Government Area of Bauchi State, was overseen by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bala M. Audu.
In his speech, Prof. Audu revealed that 1,076 students were admitted into 20 departments within the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, 109 students into the Medicine and Surgery program, and 49 students into the Dentistry program.
He clarified that the total enrollment of 1,448 students includes 551 males and 937 females.
“Today, we formally welcome another group of youthful, dynamic, and promising students into the FUHSA family. Matriculation is an essential step that confirms your status as registered students of this university,” he remarked.
Prof. Audu highlighted that the students were meticulously chosen from a vast pool of qualified candidates, noting that many others were unable to gain admission due to limited available slots.
While congratulating the newly admitted students, he assured them of the university’s dedication to offering academic assistance and character development to help them thrive.
He urged the students to adhere to the law, remain focused, and invest effort into their studies, pointing out that the university anticipates their timely graduation and expects them to become sources of pride for their families, the institution, and the nation.
The Vice-Chancellor advised the students to read and make effective use of the student handbook, which includes the rules, regulations, and guidelines governing their conduct at the university.
According to him, FUHSA upholds a strict zero-tolerance policy on cultism, examination malpractice, sexual harassment, substance abuse, inappropriate attire, vandalism, truancy, and other misconduct, cautioning that violators will face rigorous disciplinary measures as described in the handbook.
“Our ambition is not just to impart knowledge but also to cultivate students of character and discipline who will positively represent the university and uphold both national and international standards,” he articulated.
He added that the oath taken by the students represents their commitment to adhere to the laws and standards of the university during their stay.
On security matters, Prof. Audu disclosed that the university is collaborating closely with security agencies to guarantee the safety of lives and property on campus.
He mentioned that a military checkpoint will soon be established near the university’s main entrance, with regular evening patrols around the grounds. He also stated that the Bauchi State Government has provided a patrol vehicle to enhance campus security operations.
The Vice-Chancellor further announced the initiation of a perimeter fence around the female hostel to enhance privacy and security.
Regarding student welfare, he acknowledged obstacles such as insufficient hostel accommodations, limited lecture halls, and inconsistent power and water supplies, assuring that management is actively addressing these issues.
He indicated that the university is working towards ensuring 24-hour electricity and water supply through solar energy, with support from the African Development Bank intervention project facilitated by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa.
He also stated that the construction of additional classrooms and male hostels has commenced to alleviate infrastructural strain.
Prof. Audu further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the establishment of the NELFUND program, which he said has alleviated the financial burdens on students.
He revealed that 1,798 FUHSA students benefitted from the initiative in the current academic session, with their registration fees fully covered.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed gratitude to the Bauchi State Government, under Governor Bala Mohammed, for allocating an extra 500 hectares of land at Dugunde Forest along the Azare–Potiskum Road, increasing the total land size of the university’s permanent site to 600 hectares.
He noted that part of this land has been reserved for future entrepreneurial endeavors for students.
He also thanked the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, for building six units of three-bedroom staff houses at the university.
Prof. Audu further appreciated OPAY Digital Services for initiating a 10-year scholarship scheme of N300,000 annually for 20 underprivileged students of the university.
He concluded by assuring students of the management’s dedication to providing a conducive learning atmosphere and wishing them a fruitful academic journey.
