PAAU Alumnus Dr. Rabiu Olowo Donates Multi-Billion Naira Digital Library, Research Centre to Accounting Department
By Yahaya Idris
An alumnus of the Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Kogi State, Dr. Rabiu Olowo, has commenced the construction of a multi-billion naira Digital Library and Research Centre for the Department of Accounting, Faculty of Management Sciences, in a landmark intervention aimed at transforming academic research and learning.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held on Monday at the department’s premises, marked the official commencement of what is expected to become one of the institution’s most significant alumni-sponsored projects.
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Dr. Olowo, who graduated from the university in 2006, disclosed that the project would be completed before the end of the year as part of activities commemorating the 20th anniversary of his graduation from the institution.
Vice-Chancellor of PAAU, Professor Salisu Usman Ogbo, described the initiative as a game-changing investment that would enhance the university’s international visibility, academic relevance, and research capacity.
According to him, the facility will provide uninterrupted 24-hour electricity, high-speed internet connectivity, modern research facilities, conference halls, and a fully digital library that would serve students and researchers globally.
Professor Ogbo noted that the project had already begun stimulating the local economy through employment opportunities for artisans, engineers, food vendors, cement suppliers, and other professionals involved in the construction process.
He added that upon completion, the facility would benefit lecturers, students across all faculties, and researchers from universities around the world through seamless online access to academic resources.
The Vice-Chancellor described the donation as the first of its kind by an alumnus in the history of the institution, stressing that it was particularly remarkable because the donor is not an indigene of Kogi State.
He urged Nigerians to build relationships beyond ethnic and religious divides, noting that friendship and unity were instrumental in inspiring Dr. Olowo’s decision to give back to the university.
Professor Ogbo praised the donor as “a rare gem,” urging other alumni to emulate his example by investing in the growth and development of their alma mater.
He also lamented ongoing legal disputes within the university’s Alumni Association, revealing that litigation had resulted in garnishee orders affecting university accounts.
The Vice-Chancellor challenged alumni members to abandon internal conflicts and instead channel their energy toward supporting the institution.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Mohammed Umar of the United Arab Emirates University revealed that the project symbolises Dr. Olowo’s celebration of the 20th anniversary of his graduation from PAAU.
The Head of the Department of Accounting also commended Dr. Umar for his exceptional mentorship and generosity toward fellow accounting scholars during their studies in Malaysia.
He appealed to members of the Alumni Association to embrace peace and unity while encouraging successful graduates and well-meaning Nigerians to support educational development through similar interventions.