The management of Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Kano State, has cancelled a proposed students’ field trip to New Bussa in Niger State following security concerns raised by parents and other stakeholders.
The institution said the decision was taken by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Musa Yakasai, after assessing reports surrounding the security situation in the area slated for the eight-week compulsory field exercise for 400-level Fisheries students.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Deputy Registrar, Information and Public Affairs, Abdullahi Datti Abdullahi, the university clarified that the vice chancellor had rejected the proposed trip long before public concerns escalated.
The statement noted that Yakasai, who was already aware of the security challenges in the area, declined approval for the excursion when the proposal was first presented.
It added that the vice chancellor subsequently directed the Department of Fisheries to identify a safer alternative location for the practical exercise, leading to the selection of Tiga Dam in Kano State.
According to the statement, the students will now undertake the mandatory field exercise at Tiga Dam instead of travelling to Niger State.
The university stressed that the safety and welfare of students remained a top priority for the management both on and off campus.
“The university management never jokes with students’ safety and welfare within and outside the campus environment,” the statement read.
The institution also appealed to parents and guardians to remain calm, assuring them that there were no plans to expose students to unsafe areas for academic activities.
“There is no plan to take our students to New Bussa or any other unsecured area for any activity,” the statement added.
The clarification followed reported concerns from parents over the proposed trip involving more than 30 students to Niger State, amid persistent insecurity challenges in parts of the state.