BAZE FOCUS MAGAZINE 2020 EDITION (9th December 2020)

BAZE A Publication of Baze University Abuja

Focus ISSN: 2636-6770

Volume 4 No 4

December, 2020

2020 EDITION

Above: Faculty of Engineering (Front View) Below: Secondary School Students at the 2020 Faculty of Engineering Open Day. v

QUALITY & EXCELLENCE IN UNIVERSITY EDUCATION

newsletter@bazeuniversity.edu.ng www.bazeuniversity.edu.ng www.bazeuniversity.edu.ng

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BAZE UNIVERSITY- ABOUT US -Our MissionTo establish and maintain a most suitable academic environment, synergizing world-class human capital and best technology for creating and imparting knowledge to develop and modernize the Nigerian society.

-Our VisionTo be a distinctive quality-based educational institution, making a difference in the nation's history through the positive impact of its services and its graduate output.

BAZE UNIVERSITY ANTHEM ©

1st Stanza Baze University Right in the city of unity Raise the banner with Pride and dignity Over the hills, the land and sea Driven by excellence, hard work and diligence And our reach is high above the skies.

CHORUS Shine on shine on Baze Varsity Ever shining as the morning sun Marching forth to glory Learn to lead and learn to live ….. shine on, shine on, shine on… …….Baze University…...

2nd Stanza We are a varsity With a unique history, Seek wisdom and honor With the power of Knowledge Technology in reality Arts and the sciences Making giants strides Blazing the trail and setting a pace.

CHORUS Shine on shine on Baze Varsity Ever shining as the morning sun Marching forth to glory Learn to lead and learn to live ….. shine on, shine on, shine on… …….Baze University……..

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Cover Page

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Baze University - About Us

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Table of Contents

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From the Editorial Desk

4

Board of Trustees

5

Founder’s Desk

6

Welcome to a Unique Experience

7

Principal Officers

8

Faculties, Programmes & Departments, Baze Egg Head – Madam Professor

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In the Pursuit of Excellence - staff on international training, Leadership Tips

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Welcome to Another Era

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In celebration of Excellence - Baze Pioneer Staff

12 - 14

Baze University Ambassador

15

Baze University Highfliers

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Pro-chancellor’s Scholarship Award - A promise kept

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Pro-chancellor’s Scholarship Award - Profile of Awardees

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Academic Matters Update

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Status of Academic Programmes

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Faculty of Medical Sciences - new status, giant strides

21 - 23

Waste to Wealth: An Approach to Ameliorate Food Insecurity

24- 26

Sustaining Partnerships Amidst the Uncertainties of Year 2020

27- 30

Pathway to Excellent Engineering Education

31- 42

Faculty of Law – International Partnerships Innovative Solution to Online Teaching in Environmental Sciences

43 - 45 46 - 49

Mobile Technology: Good Servant, Terrible Master Baze University Hospital Photo Speak

50- 53 54 - 56

Building the Nigeria of Our Dreams through Leadership Training

57- 58

Can Digital Transformation Mitigate the Impact of Covid-19 on Education

59 - 63

Growing Post Graduate Studies at Baze University, Abuja

64 - 65

Baze University: A Covid-19 Success Story

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Civil Security – Training and Awareness is the Key

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Counselling in the Covid-19 Era - the ‘New Normal’

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Baze Focus Interviews with the Best of the Aces

69 - 71

Baze Focus Interviews with President LAWSAN

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Facts You Need to Know About Nigeria. FOCUS QED: Intelligence vs Wisdom Sports Activities in Baze University

73 74 - 75

Be an English Language Expert, Life the Toughest School 21st Century Parenting – Explore Multiple Intelligence Spheres

76 77 - 78

Nutritious Nigerian Delicacies - killing me softly

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Healthwise - Health is Wealth

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Laughter it Off

81

Campus Life in Pictures

82 - 83

Best of Baze University Panorama: Editor’s Gallery

84- 86

Baze Alumni

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Poetry Corner & Condolence

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Learn to Live

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CONTRIBUTIONS FROM: The Pro-chancellor The Vice Chancellor The Registrar University Librarian Dean, Postgraduate School Dean, Faculty of Medical Sciences Dean, Faculty of Computing & Applied Sciences Dean, Faculty of Engineering Dean, Faculty of Environmental Sciences Dean, Faculty of Law

Dean, Faculty of Management & Social Sciences Director, Academic Planning Director, Strategy & Special Duties Director IT Services Dean Student Affairs Director, Human Resource Chief Security Officer Students Support Unit Sports Unit Alumni

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From the Editorial Desk Teaching Hospital – photo speak; Building the Nigeria of our dreams through leadership training; Status of Academic Programmes, Can Digital Transformation Mitigate BAZE FOCUS Magazine celebrates another year in the Impact of Covid-19 on Education Systems in Nigeria: existence; the fourth one to be precise. Another year has the Case of Baze University; and the Growing Postgraducome and gone, and a whole lot has happened since our ate Studies Programme. last edition. As we reminisce on Year 2020 - a year like no In this Edition we also present new topics: Leadother in the annals of world’s history - we celebrate our collective resilience to fight the CORONAVIRUS. The ership Tips for Success; Baze Pioneer Staff; Bar Final Best Covid-19 Pandemic Lockdown on the tertiary education Female Student in Criminal Litigation and other high-fliers; sub-sector showcased institutions leading in the use of IT Pro-chancellor’s Scholarship Award; Enhancing Civil Security; Counselling in the Covid 19 Era - ‘The New Normal’; tools and gadgets for remote learning.

Twenty-first century parenting; Nutritious Nigerian DelicaBAZE FOCUS Magazine is a platform used by the cies - Killing me softly; Health is wealth; Interviews with university to share major events and new innovation with the Aces; Facts about Nigeria; Intelligence versus Wisdom members of the public. This is the 2020 Edition. Although -QED, etc. there is no Convocation this year due to the Covid-19 reThere are other regular features on Alumni, Engstrictions on public assembly; we still celebrate our deserving Class of 2020, for the well-deserved moment. You lish language; Campus Life, Laughter - the Best Medicine; survived: grueling tutelage under tough teachers connect- Poetry Corner, Photo Gallery, etc. All packaged for your ed by IT Tools, an unprecedented global LOCKDOWN in reading pleasure. Enjoy!!! recent human history; and the challenge of online teachTo view, share or down load any of our publicaing created by COVID-19. You weathered the storm with us, did not lose mileage in your academic race and have tions; just click: https://issuu.com/bazeuniversity. shown that only the tough gets going, when the going gets tough. Congratulations. As you climb the ladder of life and deploy the survival skills, we taught you; remember, the best is yet to come! Success is the flip side of failure when you add hard work. Nothing beats a sceptic than a try!

ANOTHER YEAR HAS COME AND GONE!

To our dear parents, investment in properties is good but to develop human capacities using sound education for wards and children, is far better. Quality Tertiary Education is sine qua non to a better life and Baze University is the destination of choice. The Baze Brand Speaks for itself, we live up to our promise and groom our students in like manner! It is on record that, during the recent lockdown when almost all Nigerian Universities were closed, Baze University deployed its robust digital learning platform for students. We never shut down during lockdown! We have delivered the 2020 Trimesters successfully and our students never lost any time. We make bold to state that Baze is a brand that keeps its promise on excellence.

To our Readers, it is a great honour to invite you to another sumptuous Edition of our Magazine. I present to you contributions from the Faculties: the Faculty of Medical Sciences – new status and giant strides; the Faculty of Computing & Applied Sciences where a 400-level student, utilized locally sourced agro-waste to cultivate edible mushroom in the laboratory; the Faculty of Management & Social Sciences and partnerships amidst uncertainties; Faculty of law and international networks and partnerships; and the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and innovative solution to online teaching.

The star article in this edition is from the Faculty of Engineering showing an array of high-end equipment and memorable moments from the Open Day conducted before the lockdown. We also bring to you Mobile Technology – good servant, terrible master; Baze University

Dr. Jamila Shu’ara, FNIM, FHEPAN Editor-in-Chief

Copyrights © Baze Focus Magazine 2020 All Copyrights Reserved Baze University, Abuja Graphis & Design DS&SD Photo Credits: Japhet Yohanna Okam Ira A’aron Department of Mass Communication Special Credits: Prof. Peter Umoh DVC Academic BAZE UNIVERSITY PUBLICATIONS & SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS BAZE FOCUS MAGAZINE © BAZE UNIVERSITY PANORAMA © INNAUGURAL LECTURE SERIES © Back Editions https://issuu.com/bazeuniversity.

Connect with us: www.bazeuniversity.edu.ng www.news@bazeuniversity.edu.ng dssd@bazeuniversity.edu.ng Instagram: @official_BazeUniversity Twitter: @Baze_University

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FROM THE FOUNDER’S DESK 2020 is a year that will go down like no other one in the history of the world. Humanity has been battered by a novel but deadly Virus (Covid -19) that truncated economies, lives and livelihoods, and educational aspirations of billions through enforced lockdown to prevent the spread of the disease. For us at Baze University, as a result of the restriction on public gathering, the 2020 Convocation Ceremony which would have been the seventh in the series has been postponed.

You will recall that, Nigerian educational institutions were given only twenty-four hours to shut down all activities and remain in a lockdown mode from the 20th March 2020, in order to reduce the effects of Covid-19 on the population. Baze University was about to conclude the first trimester and as expected, this development threw spanners in the works. Let me salute the resilience of all our staff and students who in a twinkle of an eye migrated from face-to- face contacts to remote teaching and learning.

The Covid -19 Pandemic closure of educational institutions was compounded by the upward trend of Forex and the seeming devaluation of the naira which greatly inflated the cost of procurement of high-end equipment from the Original Equipment Manufacturers abroad and the payment of salaries to our expatriate staff. Furthermore, just as we were heaving a sigh of relief as the lockdown restrictions were being eased, the massive end-SARS protests creeped unto the arena, and our hopes of re-opening the university for a normal 20 C Trimester were once again dashed. It is pertinent for everyone to note that despite these setbacks, the university has continued the procurement of academic equipment though at exorbitant prices due to high forex rates and has never faltered in all financial obligations.

hundred and fifty bed space highly sophisticated and equipped facility that will add global standards to the quality of the medical students we hope to produce.

The Hospital structure is at the roofing stage and it is expected to be commissioned by the end of the first quarter of 2021. The University continues to benefit from the tireless efforts of the Board of Trustees (BOT) led by His Excellency, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo, GCON and other eminent Members. Their valued guidance has in no small measure made the takeoff of the BUTH Project hitch-free.

At Baze University, we pride ourselves on quality staff and this has impacted positively in the graduates we produce. Each year our graduates get a mark of excellence in several organs and institutions national and international due to the efforts of our highly competent and dedicated staff sourced from diverse backgrounds. This year, one of the graduates from the Faculty of Law Ms. Amina Mahmud Jega was adjudged Best Female Student in Criminal Litigation in 2020 Call-to-Bar Examinations at the Nigerian Law School. This is followed by another exhilarating news that a student in the Faculty of Law - Blessing Afekade Agbomhere - was elected National President, Law Students Association of Nigeria (LAWSAN). This is indeed a re-validation of the quality of staff that manage the Faculty of Law and indeed all other faculties in the university. A University is as good as the quality of its faculty; and we will leave no stone unturned in bringing on board quality staff in our strive for excellence.

Let me appreciate all our students and their sponsors who have had to endure a year of unprecedented lockdown and assure that the University has put in place several initiatives to ameliorate the spread of Covid - 19 Virus on campus. We are collaborating with the FCT health authorities so that we can re-open as soon as general normalcy is restored Since March 2020, the University has de- in the system. Our vision is to remain the first-choice ployed its robust digital learning platform consisting private university in Nigeria, and we are happy you of high-end IT software and hardware to sustain are all part of the history. teaching and learning. Today, I am proud to note that no student in this university has lost mileage in All the best! their studies and we are one of the few that have completed this academic year successfully.

In spite of the unexpected setbacks of this year, Baze University has every reason to celebrate.

All the programmes in the Faculty of Engineering now have full accreditation status, while the University has continued to procure additional sophisticated equipment for Engineering and Environmental Sciences. The College of Medicine has fully taken off with more than forty students already admitted into its various programmes.

A particularly important development of the year is the commencement of the construction of the Baze University Teaching Hospital (BUTH); a one

Sen. Y.D. Baba-Ahmed, Ph.D Founder, Pro-Chancellor 5

WELCOME TO A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE It is with great pleasure that I welcome on behalf of the entire Baze University Community, the new students who just joined us and felicitate with the returning students who passed their examinations and proceeded to the next level of studies. Similarly, with happiness, I congratulate those who have successfully graduated. The year 2020 as we all note has been an exceptionally difficult period following the outbreak of Covid-19, its challenge to our well-being and especially its disruption of inperson educational services worldwide. Happily, Baze University has been one of the few institutions worldwide that leveraged on its robust ICT infrastructure to maintain services and calendar uninterrupted. We commend staff and students who lived up to this challenge successfully. To the new students, we welcome you to the new normal.

Baze University offers unique opportunities to students to pursue their passion, and educational aspirations as a preparation for a career of their choice. We are delighted to report that Baze University has commenced the much awaited programmes in the Medical Sciences viz: MBBS, Degrees in Radiography and Radiation Science, Medical Laboratory Sciences and Public Health.

Overall, the University creates an all-inclusive suitable environment for learning, sports, recreation and appropriate social engagements. An acknowledged hallmark of the University is the availability of high-quality staff who have uniquely combined academic distinction with industry experience. In a similar context, the university provides students in all the disciplines an industry experience through its mandatory SIWES (Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme) programme. This ensures that the graduate acquires knowledge and skills that are readily useful upon employment.

Furthermore, to safeguard the quality and sanctity of its certificates, the University ensures that all programmes due for accreditation are presented as and when due. To date, all the programmes offered in the University have been accredited by the National Universities Commission and other regulatory bodies. Since the last convocation, the University has hosted some major academic events, local and international conferences.

The University has continued to strengthen its policies, practices and procedures on students’ conduct on campus, such that habits which impair mental health and well-being of students due to the use of hard drugs and other anti-social behaviors are nipped in the bud in partnership with parents. The University will continue to robustly engage students on this and many other policies through the Student’s Representative Council which is expected to give a responsible voice to the entire student’s body.

In conclusion students are enjoined to utilize the opportunity provided by the University to explore their talents and strengths.

“to safeguard the quality and sanctity of its certifi-

cates, the University ensures that all programmes due for accreditation are presented as and when due. ” Prof. Tahir Mamman, OON, SAN Vice-Chancellor

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MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo, GCON Chancellor, Chairman Board of Trustees His Excellency, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo is an astute professional and well respected politician who served in various Ministries in the public service of Nigeria before he was elected Governor of Kaduna State. He was formally sworn in as the Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on 19 May 2010 and held that position till 29 May 2015.

Professor Joy Angela Ogwu, OFR Member, Board of Trustees Amb. Joy Ogwu was a former Minister of Foreign Affairs and a two-term Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations (2008 -2016). She unprecedentedly led Nigeria’s Delegation to the UN Security Council for two successive tenures and served as President of the Security Council four times (July 2010, October 2011, April 2014 and August 2015). Has extremely robust experience in foreign affairs and international relations.

Mahmud Yayale Ahmed, CON Member, Board of Trustees

Mahmud Yayale Ahmed has an extensive history of public service and has served at the highest levels of governance in Nigerian. He was a Federal Permanent Secretary; served as the Head of Federal Civil Service; Minister of Defense; and Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Sam Nda Isiah Member, Board of Trustees Sam Nda-Isaiah is the founder of LEADERSHIP Newspapers Group. He is an Alumnus of the Lee Kuan Yew College of Public Policy of the National University of Singapore and the College of International and Public Affairs of Columbia University, New York. He is a member of the Asian Think-tank, the Global Institute for Tomorrow (GIFT) based in Hong Kong.

Dr. Charles Aderemi Akintoye Member, Board of Trustees Dr. Charles holds Master’s and Doctorate Degrees in Agricultural Economy.

He served as a Commissioner for Agriculture in Lagos State between 1986 and 1991, after which he established an agro business consultancy outfit that runs successfully till date.

Sen. Y. Datti Baba-Ahmed PhD. Pro-chancellor & Member BOT Sen. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed is an Academician, Businessman and Politician. He was a member of the Nigerian Legislature first in the House of Representatives and later at the Senate representing Kaduna North. He was a Candidate in the 2019 Presidential Election. In 2011, he established Baze University in Abuja, Nigeria and he is the Pro-Chancellor of the University. He is also the Managing Director, Baze Research & Data Service Ltd, Chairman, Baze Construction Ltd and he employs over 1000 highly skilled professionals from Nigerians and the Diaspora.

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PRINCIPAL OFFICERS

Prof. Tahir MAMMAN, OON, SAN (VICE – CHANCELLOR)

David OGBONNA Esq. - DVC ADMINISTRATION

Dr. Mani Ibrahim Ahmad - REGISTRAR

Prof. Peter UMOH - DVC ACADEMIC

Umar DALHATU - BURSAR

Dr. James DANIEL - LIBRARIAN 8

HEADSHIP OF FACULTIES AND DEPARTMENTS FACULTIES

SN

1.

BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES

Dean: Prof. F. Om’Iniabohs

2.

COMPUTING & APPLIED SCIENCES

Ag. Dean: Prof. Hammawa Mohammed Baba

3.

ENGINEERING

Ag. Dean: Dr. Labaran Tanko 4.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Dean: Prof. Bala Muhammad

5.

LAW

Dean: Prof. Kathleen Okafor

6.

PROGRAMMES

ANATOMY PHYSIOLOGY BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

B.Sc. PHYSICS

Dean: Prof. Osita Agbu Deputy Dean: Dr. Helen Jekelle

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT Haruna Danazumi Prof. Melanio T Olea Jnr. Dr. Helen Negbenebor

MICROBIOLOGY

Dr. Temitope P. Fowoyo

CHEMISTRY

Prof. Riadh Sahnoun

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Dr. Chandrashekhar Uppin

FINANCIAL MATHEMATICS

Dr. Pratap Singh

PHYSICS

Dr. Hamman Tukur Gabdo

B.Eng. CIVIL ENGINEERING

CIVIL ENGINEERING

Nasiru Sani Rimintsiwa (Coord)

B.Eng. COMPUTER ENGINEERING

Dr. Najashi Gafai

B.Eng. MECHANICAL ENGINEERING B.Eng. PETROLEUM & GAS ENGINEERING

ELECTRICAL/COMPUTER/ TELECOM. ENGINEERING MECHANICAL ENGINEERING PETROLEUM & GAS ENG.

B.Sc. ARCHITECTURE

ARCHITECTURE

B.Sc. B.Sc. B.Sc. B.Sc.

B.Sc. QUANTITY SURVEYING

BUILDING ESTATE MANAGEMENT SURVEY & GEOINFORMATICS URBAN AND REGIONAL PLANNING QUANTITY SURVEYING

LL.B. CIVIL LAW

PUBLIC AND PRIVATE LAW

Dr. Zuhair Jibril

COMMERCIAL & PROPERTY LAW

Dr. Kathleen Okafor Dr. Adamu Zango Garba

BUILDING ESTATE MANAGEMENT SURVEY & GEOINFORMATICS URBAN AND REGIONAL PLANNING

B.Sc. ACCOUNTING

MANAGEMENT & SOCIAL SCIENCES

DEPARTMENTS

B.Sc. ANATOMY B.Sc. PHYSIOLOGY B.Sc. BIOLOGY B.Sc. BIOTECHNOLOGY B.Sc. MICROBIOLOGY M.Sc. ANIMAL&ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE M.Sc. PARASITOLOGY B.Sc. CHEMISTRY M.Sc. CHEMISTRY B.Sc. COMPUTER SCIENCE B.Sc. COMPUTER SCIENCE (INFO. TECH.) B.Sc. COMPUTER SCIENCE (SOFTWARE ENG) B.Sc. COMPUTER SCIENCE (INF. SY. MGT)) B.Sc. MATHEMATICS**

B.Sc. BANKING AND FINANCE B.Sc. BUSINESS MANAGEMENT MBA. BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION MSc. MANAGEMENT B.Sc. ECONOMICS M.SC. ECONOMICS B.Sc. GOVERNMENT PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION B.Sc. INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND DIPLOMACY M.Sc. NTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND DIPLOMACY B.Sc. MARKETING B.Sc. MASS COMMUNICATION M.Sc. MASS COMMUNICATION B.Sc. PSYCHOLOGY B.Sc. SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY M.Sc. SOCIOLOGY

ACCOUNTING & FINANCE

Prof. R.H Khan Dr. Hezekiah Agogo Dr. Muhammad Oumar A. Ahmed Bldr. John Alaezi Dr. Muhammed Umbugala D. Dr. Barnabas M. Ojo Dr. Saliman Dauda Amadosi Jesse

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Dr. Paulin Ebere Onyeukwu

ECONOMICS

Dr. Saada Abba Abdullahi

GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND DIPLOMACY MARKETING MASS COMMUNICATION

Prof. Benjamin Akhere

PSYCHOLOGY SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY

7.

CENTRE FOR FOUNDATIONS & INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES

Coordinator - Prof Emeka Eneh

8.

BAZE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL (BUTH)

Coordinator - Dr. Fatima Kyari

Dr. Usman Mohammed Dr. Hindu Amin Jibril Dr. Biodun Adeniyi Dr. Damian Dibia Osa-Afiana Dr. Titilayo C. Orisaremi

ANOTHER BAZE EGG HEAD - Professor Kathleen Okafor Every Academic aspires to become a Professor in their discipline.

BAZE FOCUS Magazine celebrates a diligent lady that was recently promoted to the rank of a Professor! Kathleen Okafor was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1979. She was a former Legal Adviser for the Nigerian Security, Printing and Minting Company, a former Legal Consultant to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Company (NDIC). She has been involved in many national and international assignments and has over forty national and international publications. She is a member of NBA, FIDA, NIM, NIIA, and Fellow CIArb. Kathleen Okafor joined the services of Baze University Abuja in 2012. She was recently promoted to the rank of Professor, Commercial and Property Law and she is the Dean of the Faculty of Law. 9

IN THE PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE Staff Currently on International Training S/N

1.

NAME

RANK

DEPT

st

Public & Private Law

1 Jan 2020 – 31st Jan 2021

Electrical & Computer Engineering Civil Engineering Petr. & Gas Engineering Electrical & Comp. Eng.

2nd May 2020 – 28th April 2023

Dr Udoka Owie

Senior Lecturer

2.

Dr. Yusuf Abdulrahman Sambo

Lecturer I

4.

Bashir Fidal Ibrahim

Lecturer II

5.

Maryam Abdulkarim

Lecturer II

6.

Zakariya Mahboob Lanre

Lecturer II

8.

Ahmad, S. Mahmoud

Technologist I

Architecture

9.

Aliche, Obianuju Chidiebele

Assistant Lecturer

Mass Communication

Nasir Baba-Ahmed

D/Director, I.T

I.T Services

11.

Abdulkadir Saidu

Logistics

12.

Hadiza Musa

Senior Assistant Registrar II Ass. Lecturer

10.

DATE

Economics

30th Jan 2018 30th Jan 2021 15th March 2018 30th April 2021 12th Aug. 2018 – 30th Aug. 2022 Oct. 2019 – 30th Sept. 2022 1st Sept. 2018 – 31st Aug. 2022 2nd Jan. 2019 – 27th Jan. 2021 1st Sept. 2019 – 30th Sept. 2020 9th Sept. 201931st Aug. 2023

REMARKS Osgoode Hall Law School.

York University, Toronto Canada University of Glasgow, Scotland University of Newcastle, UK Imperial College London University of Kaiserslautern, Germany Near East University, Cyprus Florida State University, USA IMT Mines Ales Lab. University of Montpellier, France University of Salford, UK University of Dundee, Scotland.

LEADERSHIP TIPS FOR SUCCESS - Mahmoud Ahmad LAWI* All of us as adults manage resources - men, materials or both. If you manage resources whether at home or in the office, you are expected to demonstrate leadership. A Leader commands the affairs of a team, a unit, a group or an organization. Leadership is a tough calling because you are expected to make accurate decisions based sometimes on inaccurate or incomplete data and information. Leadership requires changing the status quo and managing the resistance that this prompts. It requires empathizing with the people you lead, without being swayed by undue sentiments. Leadership is fulfilling when you develop leaders in others; leadership begets more leadership. Always remember that leadership is a privilege. When you are in a leadership role, your influence may affect the trajectories of people's entire careers and, their lives! A good leader creates a legacy of other leaders who use their skills and opinions to change the world.

Leaders use their social influence to maximize the efforts of others; through peer pressure, mentoring, persuasion, etc. Great leaders exhibit the following attributes: •they are clear in thoughts - concise at all times and know the desirable change in others; •they are decisive - do not sit on the fence in times of challenge; •they are courageous - make unpopular decisions, give up personal comforts for public good; •they are passionate - beliefs and goals are geared to the betterment of the society; •they are humble - show respect and gratitude, to everyone around them.

These are general tips that can make you a great leader: Be Focused - if assigned a schedule, focus on what you can change for the better; Get to the root of the issue in the execution of a task- but don’t spread thinly; Inspect what you expect – follow up once you delegate tasks; Intuition is as important as Insights – apply both to tasks; Take calculated risks – identify opportunities and act. No pain, no gain.

GOODLUCK! Mahmoud, Ahmad LAWI , FCNA, is a Deputy Registrar and Director, Human Resource.

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WELCOME TO ANOTHER ERA - Appointment of a new Registrar In 2011, he joined Baze University Abuja as a Deputy Registrar and was later appointed the Director Academic Planning and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences. He held these positions until his recent appointment as the Registrar. During his tenure as Director, Academic Planning, he was instrumental to the approval, establishment and take off of four (4) Faculties in the University including the most recent; the Medical programme.

Mani Ibrahim Ahmad, PhD, FNIM Registrar, Baze University, Abuja 1st February 2020 The only constant phenomenon in life is change.

On the 1st of February 2020, history was made at Baze University Abuja, with the appointment of a new Registrar. Mani Ibrahim Ahmad was appointed as the third in the line of successive Registrars of the University. David Ogbonna, Esq. was the pioneer Registrar and was succeeded by Maj. Gen Inuwa Idris (Rtd) who recently finished his tenure.

As a Registrar to the University he is a member of Senate and Secretary to the Governing Council and the Board of Trustees. Dr. Mani is well grounded in University Administration, Academic Planning, Environmental Impact Assessment & Sustainability, Aquaculture and Fisheries, ICT, Research, Public Speaking and national politics.

He is a fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management and an Ambassador of Peace of the Inter-religious and International Federation for World Peace. He is a member of the Red Cross Society of Nigeria and the Ecological Society of Nigeria, among others.

Baze Focus Magazine wishes Dr. Mani Ibrahim Mani Ibrahim Ahmad was born on the 20th of Ahmad a very successful tenure.

June, 1968 in Bida, Niger State, Nigeria. He finished elementary education in Bida and attended the Government Science School Kuru, Jos. He attended the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, (Minna campus) and obtained the National Certificate in Education (NCE) with a major in Biology in 1988. He was at the same institution for the Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology between 1991- 1995. He enrolled at the Federal Vice– Chancellor Prof. Tahir Mamman Outgoing Registrar Maj. Gen. Inuwa University of Technology, Minna in 1998 and obcongratulating Dr. Mani (new Registrar) Idris (rtd) congratulating Dr. Mani. tained a Masters Degree in Fisheries. In 2014, he obtained a PhD in Ecology and Environmental studies from the Nigeria Defence Academy.

Dr. Mani commenced his career as a civil servant with the Niger State Government between 1990 and 2000, then he joined the Nigerian Turkish International College, Abuja as Vice Principal. In 2008, he was appointed at the Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja as Principal Assistant Registrar and Lecturer 1.

VC Prof. Tahir Mamman in company of DVC (Admn & Acad) congratulating Dr. Mani Ibrahim Ahamd (new Registrar).

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IN CELEBRATION OF SERVICE - BAZE PIONEER STAFF In celebration of meritorious service to Baze University, we present a new feature to exemplify pioneer staff. Baze Focus Magazine found the first officer to be employed at Baze University; enjoy the Interview with him.

Sir, briefly introduce yourself to our esteemed Readers.

My name is David Ogbonna. I attended Primary School in Enugu and Secondary School at the Federal Government College, Minna. I obtained my First Degree in Sociology from the University of Calabar and undertook National Youth Service in Katsina. Thereafter, I proceeded to the United Kingdom (UK) where I obtained an LLB and LLM from Cardiff University. I qualified as a Solicitor in UK and worked for 20 years before returning to Nigeria.

I started my career as a humble Housing Officer for a Housing Association.

There, I gained experience in Property Financing and Property Development as well as Housing Management. It is a bit odd for one to begin to speak about one’s achievements, but back then, I did contribute my quota, as I rose from a humble Legal Officer for the Commission on Racial Equality to become the Corporate Lawyer for the Commission in UK. Subsequently, I David Ogbonna, Esq. Deputy Vice Chancellor was appointed by Her Majesty’s Government as the Lawyer that set up the (Administration) Equality and Human Rights Commission in the UK. This appointment really set the tone for the height of my achievements; being able to offer advice to Ministers and Senior Civil Servants and seeing that one’s advice positively influenced or impacted the direction of public policy gives you a sense of achievement and self actualization. As part of fulfilling my social responsibility, I represented a lot of clients on a pro bono basis at Employment, Medical and Immigration courts. I also worked as a Consultant and Company Secretary to various NHS Trusts in the UK. How did you get appointed into Baze University, Abuja?

I was head-hunted and interviewed by Prof. Michael Hodd, the pioneer Vice Chancellor. I remember meeting him at a Hotel in London over Coffee. I spent two hours being interviewed by him, he asked probing questions about my abilities and capabilities. After that, I was offered a job as the pioneer Registrar. I flew to Abuja to see the new University and I accepted the offer. I have also known Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed (the Proprietor and Pro-chancellor of Baze University) for a great number of years, back in the early 90s when he was in the UK studying for an MBA at Cardiff University.

As a Queen’s Counsel in UK and given your pedigree, what convinced you to join a new University that had no past performance record?

Well, I am not a Queen’s Counsel. A Queen’s Counsel is the equivalent of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, I did not achieve that but I was and still am a Solicitor of the Supreme Court, England and Wales. Having achieved as much as I could in UK and having seen the vision of the Pro-Chancellor for the new university; I came to Nigeria without hesitation, to contribute my own quota to the development of my father land.

What was the initial vision for Baze University? Is it still on course?

Well, the initial vision is still on course. Quality education; imparting purposeful knowledge; concept of ‘going through a University’ and not a University going through you; all these are still on course and the testament to these is the positive feedback from our graduates, some of whom have gone Overseas to undertake Postgraduate studies and have come back with Distinctions.

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Give us a sense of history on the first 24 months of the University?

We started as a young University in 2011 with 17 students and we have grown from there. In terms of physical infrastructure, we had the Ahmadu Abubakar building which formed the nucleus of academic and administrative activities at that time. Then there was the Baba-Ahmed Square. So, we gradually started to expand, we didn’t have a hostel on campus, the students stayed in blocks of flat in Kado and we quickly came to the decision that it wasn’t convenient for them to remain there. The school was growing rapidly, so we built what is now the Nuhu Jume quarters and we housed students there. One section each for the boys and girls but very quickly the hostel filled up. We had to contract a construction firm to do sixty-four, one bedroom flats on a build, operate and transfer basis. In the interim we had an arrangement with a hotel in Wuye, to house our students. the hotel literally closed up as we took the whole rooms for one semester while the one bedroom flats (Shagari Estate) were completed. Subsequently and very quickly we built what is now the Law Faculty (Ojo Building), followed by the Michael Hodd building which is the Faculty of Computing and Applied Sciences. As the student numbers continued to grow, we built the Gowon Estate (40, 2 bedroom flats) and moved the female students there while the boys remained at Shagari Estate.

Subsequently, we built the two hostels that the students currently occupy. So we grew from a very humble beginning to now having 6 Faculty buildings, including (Justice M A Belgore Building (Medical and Health Sciences), Moddibo Building (Faculty of Environmental Sciences) and the Rose Okwechime building (Faculty of Engineering). In addition, we now have the Multi Purpose Hall that was completed in 2015/16. So the infrastructure had grown to now over 49,000sq meters of both academic and allied structures. Currently we have started the construction of the Teaching Hospital, hopefully to be completed before the middle of 2021.

What were notable milestones achieved in the University’s first 5 years?

One notable milestone was the maiden Matriculation Ceremony for the first set of students. Other milestones are: the structured arrangement of all the university buildings and the ‘wow’ effect when visitors drive into the campus and the undisturbed landscape dotted with manicured hedges. The ambience reminds one of prestigious citadels of learning; Oxford or Cambridge University with the solemnness that is conducive for learning. The first Convocation was notable, it was nostalgia watching the first set of young ladies and men, file past to collect their Degrees. NUC’s Approval to start professional courses like Engineering and Architecture, comes to mind. Another major milestone was the change in leadership; for a new University, change sometimes is difficult. The transition from the pioneer Vice Chancellor (a Briton) to a Nigerian could have gone pear shaped but it did not. Prof. Tahir Mamman, SAN, took the mantle and continued most effectively making the transition seamless. That, indeed, was a major milestone among many others.

This University has come of age, are there any specific contributions to the Nigerian Higher Education sector?

Hmm. Contributions to higher education in Nigeria?

Well, many things come to mind but the first significant one is our exam governance structure, it is like that of no other University in the country. The exam process ensures a high level of integrity that removes untoward behaviour in the form of harassment or monetary inducement. No examiner knows whose paper they are marking because of computer bar code identification and the Conference Marking of scripts at designated venues. I remember when Prof.

Rukaiyyatu Ahmed Rufa’i, the then Honourable Minister of Education visited Baze University, she was amazed when we introduced her to our exam processes and she did make a public statement then that other Universities should learn from Baze. Similarly, the way we organize and structure our academic calendar is such that we maximize the use of our facilities, that is another thing that many Universities seek to learn from Baze University. Lastly, the automation of all our processes, our information technology system is second to none and I am proud to say was developed in-house!

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You’ve been here for about a decade, what were your best and worst moments?

My best moment was when I witnessed the graduation of students. Graduation ceremonies are always pride moments for anyone involved in the process of education. The worst moment well, there was a security breach when hoodlums entered the University and tried to harass students but that was quickly averted because our security personnel were equal to the task. This, perhaps, is the primary reason the proprietor of the University, Sen. Datti Baba-Ahmed takes security issues as paramount. I remember getting a call from him at about 2am on the day of that incident and I rushed to the campus only to find that he was already there. We learned some lessons from that incident, and we have in place a very robust security architecture in terms of CCTV coverage and boots on the ground. The proprietor makes it a point for Management to ensure that the whole campus is under complete surveillance so that any breach is immediately identified, and the possible danger is quickly averted.

Has it been worthwhile, leaving a stable job in UK for Nigeria?

Oh, yes! It has been worthwhile leaving a stable job in UK for Baze University. I am glad to be part of the history of the humble beginnings of this institution, which will definitely out last all of us.

Where do you see Baze University in the next 20 years?

In the next twenty years, I see Baze University producing: many PhDs with unique Research that contribute to academic knowledge; Medical Doctors of distinction; our first Senior Advocate of Nigeria and many novel inventions to rise higher in the ladder of World University Ranking.

What advice would you give to younger staff of the University?

My advice to encourage them to work hard, to be dedicated in their job schedule and understand that Baze University is a unique brand that does not compromise standards. The system expects the best from all staff and I urge them to give their best, work hard and upscale the current legacy at Baze University.

What are your hobbies?

I love Football and Badminton and used to play them when I was younger, but now I just watch matches on TV. I am a fan of Liverpool Football Club. I like watching movies and listening to music especially Jazz.

Are you currently engaged in any community service?

Humm, if your definition of community service is formal, then I would say no. My work schedule at Baze University does not afford me much personal time to oversee a formal NGO, but as a passion, I contribute to the society in many other ways. I assist individuals and families that are less fortunate with upkeep and support; brilliant but indigent students with scholarships to acquire formal education.

Would you like to share any aspect of your Family Life with us?

I prefer to keep my family life private. I am married and I have three Boys who mean the world to me. I miss them a lot but technology helps me to communicate with them as frequently as possible. I travel to see them as often as my schedule permits.

*David Ogbonna Esq. (ID No: E001), employed as pioneer staff and the Registrar of Baze University Abuja. He is now the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) .

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BAZE UNIVERSITY AMBASSADOR 2020 Nigerian Law School Bar Final Examinations Name - AMINA MAHMUD JEGA Baze University ID No: BU/14C/LAW/1426 Faculty - Law Year of Graduation - (2019) LLB, BL. (2020) Congratulations on the Awards received from the Nigerian Law School (2020 Bar Final Examinations). Tell us more about the awards and describe your initial emotions when you heard the news of your achievement.

Thank you very much. I was not informed prior to the ceremony; it was at the ceremony when I was glossing through the program that I saw my name under the List of Awardees. I was awarded the 3rd Best Student in Criminal Litigation and the Best Female student in Criminal Litigation. I was elated to say the least; my first reaction was to inform my parents who weren’t present due to the restrictions because of social distancing.

What motivated your career choice of the legal profession?

My choice to go into the legal profession was a last minute one. I was a Science Student in Secondary School and realized late that Sciences were not my passion. I knew switching lanes into the Arts would be difficult due to the rigid rules of the public university system. I was offered admission to study Law in Baze University despite this so I decided to do my very best to make my family proud and the University that decided to take a chance on me.

You are an Alumnae of Baze University; share with us some of your memorable experiences with staff and students.

My many memories of Baze University are nothing but fond ones. From the early semesters when I was still trying to figure out how university works, to the in-between lecture hangouts with my friends at the various university hangouts and cafes, to the excitement at the beginning of every semester of being re-acquainted with my friends and having new Courses and Lecturers. I was privileged to have been taught by a host of great Lecturers. Dr. Fatima Alkali, Professor Ernest Ojukwu SAN, Dr. Sam Amadi, Dr. Udoka Owie, Dr. Aminu Gamawa, Dr. Effiong Esu, Barrister Dayo Ashonibare, Mrs. Christiana Agbor are just a few. All of them back then and even now, long after my graduation, continue to serve as mentors to me. I am forever grateful for the way the Law Faculty Lecturers invested their time and efforts in me as a student. I am happy that today, they have seen me excel and I have made them proud.

Beyond this Call to Bar, what are your next goals?

My next goal is to pursue my Master’s Degree in Public International Law and eventually do a Doctorate Degree in Law. I hope to ultimately establish a Career in International Public Service.

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BAZE UNIVERSITY HIGH-FLIERS Baze University is synonymous with quality and excellence. The Baze Brand is reflected by the quality of our graduates who maintain Magna Cum Laude status nationally and internationally. We are always proud to showcase them!

Name - Kehinde Yewande ADEKANBI, ACIArb Baze University ID No: BU/14C/LAW/1230 L.L.B Law (Second Class Honours) Year of Graduation - 2018 COVENTRY UNIVERSITY, UK (October 2019) MSc - Business Administration (Global Business Distinction) Current Place of work - Ministry of Justice (NYSC) Certifications: Chartered Management Institute - Level 7 Manager Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

Name - Shehu GARBA Baze University ID No: BU/14A/ BS/1097 BSc - Mass Communication Year of Graduation - 2016 UNIVERSITY OF SALFORD, UK (2019) MSc - Information Systems Management Current Place of work - Energy Commission of Nigeria.

Name - Ibrahim Bashir TIJJANI Baze University Abuja ID No: BU/14A/ IT/1104 BSc - Information Technology Year of Graduation - 2016 UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS, UK (2018) MSc - Data Science and Analytics Current Place of work - Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.

Name - Ummul Khulthum Manu SHELLENG Baze University ID No: BU/14A/ IT/1130 BSc - Information Systems Management Year of Graduation - 2016 UNIVERSITY OF SALFORD, MANCHESTER, UK (2019) MSc - Information Systems Management (Merit) Current Place of work - Nigerian Communication Commission.

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PRO-CHANCELLOR’S SCHOLARSHIP AWARD: A PROMISE KEPT

A University is as good as the quality of its staff. Baze University is a brand that speaks for itself: excellence in university education; superb infrastructure, high quality staff with diversity, serene and conducive environment, robust deployment of IT services, stable academic calendar, etc.

At the 6th Convocation Ceremony in November 2019, Sen. Y.D Baba-Ahmed, PhD, FSAN, Founder & Pro-chancellor (PC) of Baze University, Abuja announced an offer of full tuition scholarships to any five deserving junior staff. This was part of ongoing efforts at capacity building and incentivizing staff in the university, and he directed an immediate implementation by Management.

In January 2020, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Tahir Mamman, SAN, approved the criteria for the implementation of the Pro-chancellor’s Scholarship, including the following: number of years in the service of the university, unblemished record of service and possession of minimum entry qualifications for admission into a university. The Human Resource Office concluded the selection process and proposed the names of five junior staff eligible for the award and Management considered and approved them for the PC’s Scholarship.

All the officers whose profiles are presented, personally received their Letters of Offer from the PC and the VC at an Award Ceremony in the University on the 23 rd of January 2020. The PC informed the gathering that the total monetary value of the scholarship for the five officers for the duration of their study is over N50 Million. He promised to continue this Scholarship Scheme once the first batch of Beneficiaries graduate and advised them to justify their selection by putting in their best.

The Officers expressed profound appreciation to the PC, VC and Management stating that this generosity has paved a new unexpected path of a rare opportunity to a better future for them, their children and their families.

Baze Focus Magazine congratulates the Awardees and thanks the Pro-chancellor, Sen. Y.D Baba - Ahmed and the Vice-chancellor for this life-changing offer that gives meaning to the adage that “Education is the Best Legacy You Can Give to a Person”.

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PRO-CHANCELLOR’S SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS: A PROMISE KEPT PROFILE OF AWARDEES ALFA KADAKUKOME MICHAEL is from Adamawa State. He was born into a family of six in April 1978. He had his First School Leaving Certificate in 1991. He attend the Government Secondary School Gwagwalada, Abuja, where he obtained the Senior Secondary School Certificate in year 2000. In 2003, he was employed as a security personnel with Metro Plaza Security before joining the Trans-World Security Company in 2007, and was deployed to First Bank Plc. In 2008, he undertook a Diploma programme in Management Studies at Adamawa State Polytechnic. In 2013, Alfa Kadakukome Michael joined Baze University Security Unit. He is now enrolled at Baze University as a level 100 student in the Department of Sociology.

DAHIRU SALISU ABDULLAHI was born on the 29th of December 1985. He attended Central Primary School Gwamlar, Plateau State in 2001 and later enrolled into the Government Secondary School Gidgid and was the President of Muslim Student’s Society (MSS) in 2007. Dahiru was employed as a Security Operative in 2007 at the Residence of the Pro-Chancellor but was deployed as the first security guard with the establishment of Baze University. He has steadily risen to the position of Principal Security Supervisor and has received various commendations and awards including: “Baze Security Operative of Year 2014,” and “Outstanding Security of the Year 2016.” He is now enrolled at Baze University as a level 100 student in the Department of Sociology.

IBRAHIM ISAH was born on the 11th of December 1988. He had his basic education at Dandaura in 2003 and completed the Senior Secondary education at Government Secondary School Rigachikun in 2006. He obtained a Certificate in Public Administration from Staff Development Centre, Kakuri, in Kaduna State in 2011. It was while undergoing this Diploma programme that he was initially employed in Baze University as a part-time Laborer who worked during the holidays. In 2013, upon the completion of the Diploma, Isah returned to Baze University and was employed as a Security Operative. He is now enrolled at Baze University as a level 100 student in the Department of Public Administration.

MIKA’IL YAHAYA MAKAMA, was born on the 6th of July 1986, in Unguwan Makama, Kauru LGA, of Kaduna State. He obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1998, and proceeded to the Government Secondary School, Kafanchan, where he obtained his West African Senior School Certificate in 2004. In 2005 he enrolled for PreNCE with the College of Education Gidan Waya, Kafachan and studied Physical and Health Education (PHE). In 2009, he returned to the institution to acquire the National Certificate in Education in PHE and thereafter taught at the Government Junior Secondary School Dandaura, Kauru. In 2012, he joined Baze University as a security operative and is currently a Senior Security Supervisor. He is now enrolled at Baze University as a level 100 student in the Department of Mass Communication.

VICTOR MANASSEH is from Angwan Galadima in Jaba LGA, of Kaduna State. He was born on the 1st of January 1988 and obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in Angwan Galadima Primary School in 2000. He proceeded to Government Secondary School Kurmi Musa where he concluded his Secondary School Education in 2006. In 2008, he completed a Diploma in Computer Science while working at the Emperor Chopstick Restaurant as a Kitchen Assistant. In 2010, he also enrolled into the Kaduna State Polytechnic IJMB programme for one year. He started his career with Baze University as a Security Operative in the year 2013. He is now enrolled at Baze University as a level 100 student in the Department of Public Administration.

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ACADEMIC MATTERS - UPDATE CHAIRMAN BOARD OF TRUSTEES ARC. MOHAMMED NAMADI SAMBO DONATES 3D PRINTER

19th August, 2020: His Excellency, former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Chairman, Board of Trustees of Baze University Abuja, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo, GCON, FNIA donated a three-dimensional (3D) Printer to the Department of Architecture in the Faculty of Environmental Sciences. The highly sophisticated Printer can be attached to high-definition Computer Desktops in the production of modern IT models for Architectural Buildings and Environmental Designs. This will no doubt give staff and students robust experiences and competitive edge in the fast-paced world of technology. YOUR EXCELLENCY, THANK YOU SIR. PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT BAZE UNIVERSITY - POSTGRADUATE SCHOOL

The Director Academic Planning wishes to inform the general public that the underlisted courses have been approved by the National Universities Commission and have commenced at the Baze University Postgraduate School. For more information, contact the DVC Academic & Dean Postgraduate School.

S/N 1.

2.

3.

Faculty Management & Social Sciences

Computing and Applied Sciences

Law

Programme Accounting, MSc Economics, MSc International Relations and Diplomacy, MSc Mass Communication, MSc Management, MSc MBA Public Administration, MSc Sociology, MSc Animal & Environmental Sc., MSc Computer Science, MSc Software Engineering Forensic & Cybersecurity Information Systems Information Technology Chemistry, MSc

Duration 15 months 15 months 15 months

Tuition N2, 300, 000 N2, 300, 000 N2, 300, 000

15 15 24 15 15 15 15

N2, N2, N2, N2, N2, N2, N2,

15 months

N2, 300, 000

Parasitology, MSc

15 months

N2, 300, 000

Law, LLM

15 months

N2, 500, 000

months months months months months months months

300, 300, 800, 300, 300, 300, 300,

000 000 000 000 000 000 000

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STATUS OF ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES - Rukayyatu A. GURIN* Baze University is synonymous with excellence and quality education. The University provides: state-of-the-art equipment in all laboratories; comfortable, convenient, and conducive facilities in Lecture Rooms and Auditoriums; 24/7 internet-serviced Libraries; highly qualified academic staff that give students rich and robust experiences in chosen fields, and a superb ICT platform.

The capacity and capability of the ICT infrastructure in the University is a huge success story that sister institutions have come to understudy. Through remote learning and the conduct of online classes, Baze University successfully completed two Semesters during the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown. Our students never lost any time in the pursuit of their academic goals as the University took advantage of its robust digital technology platform to connect with students and staff, provide and effectively monitor lectures as well as conduct examinations.

To cap all these, the University has a good academic standing for all its programmes at the National Universities Commission (NUC) - the Agency that is statutorily empowered to regulate all university education programmes and activities in Nigeria. As of October 2020, there were forty-nine (49) approved programmes which run concurrently either at the Undergraduate (UG) or Postgraduate (PG) levels, with four-four (44) situated in different Faculties while five (5) are attached to Service Departments. There are 36 Academic Programmes at the Undergraduate level while 13 are at the Postgraduate level. As at date, almost all the programmes in the Faculties have attained Accreditation, while some new ones are awaiting NUC’s Accreditation Visits. The information above is presented in the Table below: STATUS OF ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES S/N Faculties Number of Programmes 1

Management and Social Sciences

UG 10

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Computing and applied Sciences Law Engineering Environmental Sciences Basic Medical Sciences College of Medicine (MBBS) TOTAL

5 + (*2 in service units) 1 6 3 + (*3 in service units) 5 1 36

PG 8 4 1 Not Not Not Not 13

Offered Offered Offered Offered

*Service Units •

Centre for Foundation & Interdisciplinary Studies

•

Biochemistry * Dr Rukayyatu A. GURIN, mni is the Director, Academic Planning.

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THE FACULTY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES: NEW STATUS, GIANT STRIDES Ferdinand A. OM’INIABOHS* Introduction Baze University in 2020, achieved a lot of progress despite the unprecedented challenges created by CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC. The Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences which hitherto had two Departments (Anatomy and Physiology) now has a total of five. Three new Departments; Public Health, Medical Laboratory Sciences and Radiography & Radiation Sciences were approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in the first quarter of 2020. Baze University was also given approval to start the training of medical doctors in the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery.

The Medical students in the pre-clinical stream of 2nd & 3rd year levels and those admitted into the three Departments of Public Health, Medical Laboratory Sciences and Radiology & Radiation Physics would all be serviced by the Basic Medical Sciences Departments of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology. However, the first year or 100 Level for all these students would be spent in the Applied Sciences of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

EQUIPMENT GALORE The Departments in the Basic Medical Sciences received an array of sophisticated equipment for the training of students; these include the following:

ANATOMY

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BIOCHEMISTRY

PHYSIOLOGY

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Recruitment of Quality Staff In early 2020, the Management of Baze University recruited a batch of middle cadre staff for the Department of Anatomy and Physiology; these are lecturers of good standing and quality education who shall be able to impart knowledge to the Medical and Allied Health sciences students. Consequently, the sophisticated equipment in the Departments of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology are handled by experienced Technologists to ensure robust experiences and best quality education for students.

Baze University Teaching Hospital The Management of the University has embarked on the construction of the Baze University Teaching Hospital (BUTH) at the north-western end of the campus and it is expected to be commissioned by the first quarter of 2021. The Hospital is uniquely designed to accommodate 150 beds and will operate under a Hospital Management Board to be chaired by a Chief Medical Director (CMD) who is expected to implement policies and programmes of the Board. The CMD and his team will be supported by a Medical Advisory Committee led by a Chairman with the acronym C-MAC. BUTH is also expected to liaise with the Federal Ministry of Health while the Faculty of Basic Medical and Health Sciences would work closely with NUC and the Federal Ministry of Education. Meanwhile, in order to ensure that the medical students registered for the course are given required experiences, Baze University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FCT Hospital Management Board for the utilization of the District and General Hospitals in Abuja Metropolis.

Commencement of Study and Approval From Professional Bodies

Admission of new students into the 100 level Basic Medical Sciences Programmes commenced in September 2020 and the Faculty is expecting visits from the Professional Bodies. Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), the Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria (RRBN) and the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) are responsible for the professional registration and licensing of Graduates in Medicine, Radiography and Medical Laboratory Sciences, respectively at the end of their programmes.

Prospects Once the BUTH takes off, the Faculty will liaise with Management to seek NUC’s Approval for the establishment of other professional courses such as Dentistry and Pharmacy with the terminal Degrees of Bachelor of Dental surgery (BDS) and Doctor of Pharmacy (D.Pharm). *Prof Ferdinand A. OM’INIABOHS is a Professor of Anatomy & Cell Biology and the Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences.

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WASTE TO WEALTH: AN APPROACH TO AMELIORATE FOOD INSECURITY Patience. T. FOWOYO* Introduction Wastes are residual usable or unusable products obtained after primary use. Wastes are generated in several ways: during extraction and processing of raw materials into intermediate and final products; during consumption of final products, and through other human activities. Wastes are categorized into industrial, commercial, domestic, and agricultural wastes.

Agricultural wastes are unwanted or non-commercially viable materials produced wholly from agricultural operations as in the cultivation of crops or raising of animals. Agricultural waste also known as agro-waste, comprises of: animal waste (manure, animal carcasses), food processing and crop waste (corn stalks, sugarcane bagasse, drops and culls from fruits and vegetables, pruning of tree, shrub or bush) and toxic agricultural waste (residual chemical pesticides). The by-products from processing and agro wastes are often discarded as refuse. One of the adverse effects of discarding this waste is pollution of the environment with resultant detrimental and debilitating impact on human health.

The rapid increase in the world’s population coupled with urban migration has resulted in an increased demand for food which in turn has led to the production of large amounts of agricultural wastes, both at the farm, village, municipal and city levels. In developing countries (Nigeria inclusive) the bulk of agricultural produce is transported to urban markets in raw farm-form, and when they are not sold, they snowball into large deposits of wastes in the markets, around homes, slums and in refuse dump sites. A continual wastage of food produce in this manner adds to food insecurity.

Globally, reliance on agriculture is the major tool in ensuring food security. Food insecurity simply represents the lack of access to adequate food; it could be temporary or chronic. Chronic food insecurity arises from a lack of resources to produce, procure or acquire food; the diet is persistently inadequate. A country is food-secure when majority of its population have access to food of adequate quantity and quality sufficient for a healthy life. In order to be food-secure, food must be available to the people in a quantum that meets acceptable level of nutritional standards (requisite calories, protein and minerals needed by the body), the people must possess the means to acquire, coupled with reasonable continuity and consistency in its supply.

The Agricultural sector is bedevilled with challenges that jeopardize citizen’s ability to sufficiently cater to the food needs of the populace thereby leading to food insecurity. These challenges include post-harvest losses, storage, shelf life of perishable crops, and the logistics of movement from farm to table. It is therefore imperative to explore ways to produce crops and grow livestock using agrowastes in ways that will ensure sufficiency, affordable and nutrition.

Agro Waste to Boost Food Security Several concerted efforts are being made at converting wastes into useful products. Useful products that have been produced from wastes include biofuels, animal feeds and organic fertilizers. Agricultural wastes are widely available, renewable, and virtually free; hence they can be an important resource. However, in developing countries, many of the agricultural wastes are largely under-utilized, left to rot or openly burned in the dump sites and fields.

In the Department of Biological Sciences at Baze University, our objective in agro-research is to repurpose agricultural waste into a resource that can be utilized. This fuelled the passion to encourage a research that will convert agro-waste into desirable products. Our recent research invention is the production of oyster mushrooms from agricultural wastes. In Nigeria due to high costs, many families do not include meat in their diets because of affordability, and other individuals due to their susceptibility to heart related diseases avoid the consumption of meat especially beef with a high cholesterol level. Mushrooms are a better alternative to meat; they are affordable and are a rich source of protein with no risk of heart related diseases.

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Oyster mushroom

Hauwa growing mushrooms in the laboratory

Hauwa Ibrahim in 2019, a 400-level student, was encouraged to carry out a research utilizing locally sourced agro-waste products (tiger nut chaff, sugarcane bagasse and saw dust) to cultivate edible mushroom in the laboratory. She observed a higher yield of mushrooms with the use of sawdust as compared to the other agro-wastes. It was also discovered that the protein content (48.1%) of the mushrooms cultivated in our laboratory was almost the same as that in red meat (52.2%). This shows that mushrooms produced from this agro-waste can be a suitable alternative source of protein.

Mushroom grown on sawdust

Mushroom grown on sugarcane bagasse

Mushroom grown on tiger nut chaff Medicinal Value of Oyster Mushroom Mushrooms are edible fungi with high nutritional and medicinal value. Some species of mushroom are regarded as therapeutic foods due to their anti-carcinogenic, anti-cholesterolemic and anti-viral properties. It has been reported that mushrooms can maintain the blood cholesterol at the optimum level preventing cardiovascular diseases. According to researchers many of the compounds in the mushroom can prevent or treat certain health conditions such as asthma, atherosclerosis, dermatitis, diabetes, hepatitis, high blood pressure and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

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Nutritional Benefits of Oyster Mushroom Cultivated and wild mushrooms are known to contain reasonable amounts of protein, carbohydrate, minerals, dietary fibre, and vitamins with low levels of calories, sodium, fats, and cholesterol. Oyster mushrooms are considered a good source of superior quality protein, with well distributed essential amino acids. Therefore, mushrooms are an excellent food source to alleviate malnutrition in developing countries.

Economic Importance of Agricultural Wastes Agricultural wastes can be used in producing healthy crops and raising healthy livestock. This will reduce the cost of crop production and livestock farming thereby making food affordable and available. Products derived from agricultural wastes are of high economic value. For instance, mushrooms, and snails are grown using agricultural wastes. These agricultural products are in high demand and can also be exported to boost forex. Agricultural wastes being organic when utilized in growing crops or raising livestock always produces highly nutritious food. When these foods are consumed by man who represents the greatest resource on earth, economic value increases. If the workforce of a nation is healthy, the greater will be their productivity. The greater the productivity of the workforce, the more the economic value that is accruable to that nation.

The process of growing crops or raising livestock using these agricultural wastes will require human labour. In Nigeria, many people are unemployed or underemployed and the use of agro-wastes as a source of livelihood would provide employment and invariably income for the unemployed. Micro and medium scale businesses can be created along this agricultural value chain which can also provide opportunity for self-employment and cascade into improved gross domestic product (GDP), economy and food security. Overall, agricultural wastes can be a valuable resource for improving food security, using this method of food production.

*Dr. Patience T. FOWOYO is an Associate Professor and Head, Department of Microbiology in the

Faculty of Computing & Applied Sciences

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Faculty of Management and Social Sciences - Sustaining Partnerships Amidst the Uncertainties of Year 2020 by Osita AGBU*

The Faculty of Management and Social Sciences (FMSS) is the largest and most diverse at Baze University. It has some of the most versatile, and experienced lecturers an academic environment can wish for. FMSS currently has the following Departments; Accounting, Banking and Finance, Business Management, Economics, International Relations and Diplomacy, Marketing, Mass Communication, Political Science and Public Administration, Psychology, Sociology and Anthropology.

The Faculty leverages on partnerships with the private sector and encourage students to explore same to maximum benefits.

The Department of Accounting, Banking and Finance The Department of Accounting, Banking & Finance was established in 2011 with a focus on teaching and research, local and foreign accounting procedures and banking and finance issues. The academic modules in the Department are designed to produce graduates who would fit into a broad spectrum of jobs in national and international private and public sector agencies. This is supported by a retinue of robust digitally compliant and literate staff strong in the use of computer application tools including Oracle, Cisco, Cyberoam, Huawei, Petex, Quick Book, IBM, and Peachtree. The Department leverages on knowledge, innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship as the hallmark of positive development, and nothing is left to chance in the process of educating the students. The Department received a delegation from the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) in February 2020 on a collaboration visit towards improving the discipline and profession. Some other activities of the Department in 2020 are shown in the pictures below.

SIWES Inspection Visit by the HOD, Dr. Adamu Zango (middle) to Accounting Students serving in the Ministry of Finance, Sokoto State

SIWES Inspection Visit by the HOD to Usman Muhammad Usman (a Student) serving at the NNPC, Kaduna 27

Accounting Students attend ACCA Workshop in Abuja

The Department of Economics was established in 2011 and has consistently produced graduates of economics that compete favourably with their peers from similar institutions all over the world. There has been a steady growth in student enrolment and staff population with many from diverse background. The first B.Sc Economics Degree was awarded in 2014, and since then over 100 graduates have been produced with 2018 and 2019 recording First Class graduates back to back - a clear attestation to the quality of the teaching staff. The post graduate programme commenced in 2019 and the Department is on course to produce the first set of M.Sc Economics graduates in 2020. Graduates of the Department are groomed to apply sound economic theories to everyday life, and develop thorough appreciation of national and global socio-economic environment of any society. It is well positioned to produce graduates that contribute meaningfully to the public and private sectors of the economy.

The Department of Marketing has a programme that prepares students for the challenges inherent in marketing and sales sector of the national economy. Marketing is critical to understanding the dynamics of trade in the world. The Marketing Programme which has been fully accredited

by NUC inculcates the spirit of entrepreneurship in the graduates and positions them for leadership in industry, commerce, public service, and private organizations.

The Department of International Relations and Diplomacy (IRD) is a popular department in the University and offer students a unique blend of theory, practical knowledge and skills that expose students to the flexibility and impact of politics, economy, and culture on the policies of sovereign states. Over the years, the Department has attracted high caliber lecturers; many of them experienced technocrats, retired military personnel and established academics. There is no gain saying that our students have been better for this as they imbibe not just theories, but also practical experiences garnered from these illustrious lecturers. The Department exposes students to the basics of governance, multilateralism and diplomacy and the student population have been on a steady rise. The Postgraduate programme which commenced in 2018 has grown astronomically within a short period of time, thanks to its dedicated staff.

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The Department of Business Management leverages on teaching and research that focus on local and international management issues with courses designed for graduates who would fit into a broad spectrum of job roles in the private and public sectors. Robust Courses in Management, Marketing, Accounting, Economics, and Finance are designed to help students develop quantitative, analytical, and critical skills needed to succeed as managers across all sectors. In the recent past, the department successfully organized several field trips to expose students to real-life activities in close relationship and co-operation with the private and public sectors, as well as other institutions of higher learning, locally and internationally. Field trips are organized in partnership with these organizations to expose students to real-life activities. As an academic destination in management, the Department runs very popular postgraduate courses in M.Sc and MBA Programmes in Management.

At the Department of Mass Communication, the primary responsibilities of teaching, research and community service have been pursued with a virtuous zeal, resulting in the generation of enthusiastic students, eager to take on the real world. The research activities by staff have led to publication of referenced academic articles in books and journals. The Department has made prominent contributions in community service, as highlighted below: • Organize internal and external media coverage for university events and students are allowed to participate as hands on practical demonstration.

• Participation of staff and students in community organized symposium, workshops, seminars, etc, for capacity building.

• research partnership with Media Trust Limited, publishers of Daily Trust to develop a template that will periodically assess the performance of the company’s lead publications with a view to enhancing contents and professional quality.

• Partnership Agreement with Code for Africa for collaboration on Digital Journalism Training.

MOU was recently signed between Baze University and the Organization.

The Department of Political Science and Public Administration had a year filled with numerous activities: • key participant at the 17th Daily Trust Dialogue on January 9, 2020 and the Theme was Twenty years of Democracy in Nigeria: Strengths, Weaknesses and Opportunities. Many of our senior staff and students were in attendance.

• Departmental Seminar on “Influence of the State-Local Government Joint Account System on Public Service Delivery in Nigeria: A Case Study of Awgu Local Government Council”, by Dr. Chukwuemeka Okafor (a senior staff on research leave.)

• attendance at the First Lady’s (Aisha Buhari) event to promote girl-child education in Nigeria.

Former first ladies that attended the event included Turai Yar’Adua, Patience Goodluck Jonathan and Maryam Abacha.

• Faculty Seminar Series in February 2020, where Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed presented a Paper titled “Persuasion and Negotiation: Lessons from 12 Angry Men”. Presentation highlighted the value of persuasion and negotiation as strategies in dealing with complex and challenging situations.

The Department of Psychology had a rich and rewarding year. Our students have continued to show progress and in-depth understanding of knowledge as attested to by the External Examiner’s Report. Some of the progress made in the year under review were: • Attainment of Full Accreditation status of the Psychology programme.

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Acquisition of highly sophisticated Psychological Tests Instruments including: Wechsler Adult Intelligence Test (WAIS), Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (2) (MMPI 2), Sixteen Personality Factors (16PF), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depressing Inventory (BDI), Locus of Control Inventory (LCI), Rorschech Inkblot, and One-way-mirror and Thematic Apperception Test (TAT). These tests have been invaluable in enhancing the quality of research projects of our students.

Students of Political Science & Public Administration and International Relations & Diplomacy at the First Lady’s Event.

Appreciation It is indeed noteworthy that in spite of the harsh effects of COVID-19 lockdown on all activities in the country for 2020, the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences with the cooperation of staff, students and the University Management has continued to run all its programmes to the satisfaction of all. I use this opportunity to appreciate our indefatigable staff for their sacrifices, the university management for providing an enabling environment and more importantly, the parents of our students for putting their trust in us.

*Prof. Osita AGBU, FNSIA, FCIA is the Dean, Faculty of Management and Social Sciences.

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FACULTY OF ENGINEERING: Pathway to Excellent Engineering Education Nuradeen Labaran TANKO* The Faculty: Tall Oak from little Acorn Baze University started admitting students in 2011, but it was not until 2015 that the National Universities Commission (NUC) granted approval to admit and register students for Engineering Programmes; Mechanical, Petroleum and Gas, Civil, Electrical and Electronics, Telecommunications, and Computer Engineering. Thereafter, three programs (Electrical & Electronics, Computer and Telecommunications Engineering) were put under one Department, but students were allowed to their areas of choice.

The Faculty of Engineering started with 8 students known as the famous eight whose choice of programmes cut-across all the disciplines of Engineering. This was an encouragement because we were happy that Baze University could attract students to all its Engineering programmes, but it was a challenge as it meant the University would have to provide infrastructure and manpower for all the Engineering programs concurrently. The University Management rose to the occasion and provided manpower and equipment for all the Departments in the Faculty and this ensured that our students were prepared for the “Future of Engineering” practice nationally and globally.

The Dean and Senior Members of the Faculty of Engineering

Current status The Faculty of Engineering currently has over sixty Lecturers across the four Departments and more than 70% of them possess higher tertiary degrees with significant years of experience in and outside Nigeria. The majority of these staff are in full time employment with the University. The Faculty of Engineering in recent months took the delivery of high-end laboratory and workshop equipment that will enhance students’ knowledge of basic and fundamental concepts in the various fields of Engineering. All the Engineering Programmes have full Accreditation status from NUC and the preliminary feedback from the Employers of our graduates has been positive.

The Faculty of Engineering within this period of its existence has recorded several achievements and received many accolades based on the performance of students and staff in national and international competitions. Some of our students have excelled in Robotics and Quiz Competitions winning Scholarships and Prizes. Several staff have won prizes from the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) for their academic and research contributions and for mentoring activities. The Faculty of Engineering has also supported projects within the University, an example is the Baze University Teaching Hospital (BUTH) Project where staff of the Faculty provided technical support in the Design and supervision of the Project.

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Programmes offered in the Faculty The Faculty of Engineering offers six academic programmes: Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Petroleum and Gas Engineering and Telecommunications Engineering. Each programme provides a unique experience to the student delivering a balanced mix of theory and practice to develop robust competencies and skills.

Admission requirements into any of the engineering programs are as follows: • 100 Level - UTME scores as may be approved by Senate and five (5) O' level credit passes in no more than two sittings in SSCE (or equivalent) including English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and any other science subjects.

• 200 Level - at least two (2) A' Level passes in Mathematics and Physics: OND (Upper Credit) with Distinction in Mathematics or HND (Lower Credit) in related engineering course.

• 300 Level - HND (Upper Credit) in related engineering with Distinction in Mathematics.

Civil Engineering: The mission of the Department is to provide civil engineering education through innovative teaching and research, designed at producing a new generation of highly motivated, competent, skillful and innovative professionals with a burning desire to take on the developmental challenges of Africa. Our philosophy is to deploy existing knowledge in science and technology to produce civil engineers who would function effectively in the public sector and the industry in the planning, design, construction and management of facilities. These facilities include highways and roads, airfields, waterways, railways, and traffic control systems; buildings and bridge structures; energy and communications structures; foundations; hydraulic structures; water resources development; water supply, waste disposal and treatment; land reclamation and erosion control, and other civil engineering structures. The Civil Engineering programme is industry focused and designed to enhance employability in the various specializations to meet the significant infrastructure deficit of the nation.

Civil Engineering Students Conducting Experiment on the Soil Using Hot Air Oven (left) and CBR Machine (right)

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One of the Civil Engineering Laboratories at Baze University

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Electrical Electronic and Computer Engineering : Electrical Electronic Engineering : The programme is designed to meet the needs of global technology and electronics. The programme consists of lectures, laboratories, projects, and practical training in the industry. There is a mentorship scheme that ensures that every student is properly guided and tutored to ensure for optimal performance. This strategy provides students with required expertise needed to secure professional-level employment in related industries. On the successful completion of a Degree programme, students may specialize in the following areas: Power Systems and Machines, Electronics and Communications, Computers and Control. Electrical Engineers are open to numerous opportunities in the technology industry, where they evaluate electrical products and ensure components meet specific codes and standards. They are also involved in Equipment testing, troubleshooting and maintenance, power generation and distribution, renewable energy, manufacturing and construction, rail, telecoms, and the construction industry.

Computer Engineering: The philosophy of the Computer Engineering programme is to produce graduates of high international academic standards, with adequate theoretical knowledge and practical skills and who will be of immediate value to the nation's fledgling computer industry. Computer Engineers work with hardware and software, ensuring that the two are seamlessly integrated and properly functioning. Computer Engineers focus on innovations; making computing systems safer, faster and more powerful.

At the career level, there are two main avenues: hardware and software engineering. Hardware engineers focus their skills on computer systems and components, designing microprocessors, circuit boards, routers, and other embedded devices. On the software side, these engineers create, test and debug programmes and applications that run on computers, mobile device and much more.

An Electrical Engineering Student who designed and built a Drone is supervised by a Tutor.

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Mechanical Engineering: Mechanical Engineering is one of the broadest and oldest branches of Engineering. It plays a critical role in manufactured technologies in almost all fields of Engineering such as Agricultural Machineries and Tools, Construction, Marine, Metallurgical, Mining, Chemical, Automotive, Aerospace Industries.

It enables us to execute daily activities with ease, as it deploys helpful technologies to solve problems. At Baze University, Mechanical Engineering Students get a unique experience at handling modern equipment and tools to address pressing needs of the human society with emphasis on the field of energy generation, distribution, transportation, manufacturing and health care delivery. We offer students a broad-based Degree with a sound foundation in Engineering Science focused on quantitative, problem solving, mechanical design and an opportunity to develop communication skills; these are needed in future in the pursuit of their career goals. The Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) programme is designed to produce a total graduate empowered with the right standards to practice Mechanical Engineering in the field, the industry and manufacturing sectors. The programme consists of lectures, lab practical, projects and training in the industry. The Department has five laboratory/workshop: Applied Mechanics Lab; Strength of Materials Lab; Fluid Mechanics Lab; Thermodynamics Lab, and Mechanical Engineering Workshop.

Visitors inspecting the Fluid Mechanics Lab with several Turbines, Oil Hydraulics Trainer, Hydraulic Bench, etc.

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Petroleum and Gas Engineering: Petroleum and Gas Engineering (P&GE) is a field of engineering concerned with activities related to the development (exploration, extraction, and production) of hydrocarbon reserves, which can be crude oil or natural gas. P&GE has remained important to every segment (economy, politics, and technology) of society since ancient times. From history, P&GE developed due to the advent of the internal combustion engine, the rise in commercial aviation, and the use of petroleum in industrial organic chemistry (synthesis of plastics, fertilizers, solvents, adhesives, and pesticides). At Baze University, P&GE study allows students access to robust facilities in four Laboratories of Drilling, Reservoir, Production Engineering and PVT, respectively. The Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) programme is designed to meet the needs of the petroleum and natural gas industry and it consists of lectures, lab work, computer simulation, projects, and practical training. The Faculty also has a mentorship scheme to ensure that students are properly guided and tutored. The members of staff are highly qualified, very friendly, and always willing to assist students with their academic work. The students spend a year on industrial attachment to get hands-on experience and improve their career and job prospects. Major key players in the industry (NNPC, TOTAL, Greenville Energy, Green Energy, Halliburton, NLNG, DPR, etc) are usually willing to accept our students for industrial attachment because of the value they add.

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Telecommunications Engineering: Telecommunications Engineering is a wide field of specialization that offers jobs such as Telecom Researcher; Designer (Hardware, Electronic, Network); Manager (Field, Product or Network); Engineer (Radio Frequency or Computer Software), etc. Telecom Engineers design, implement and manage systems for processing and transmitting information, and there are career opportunities with Telecom providers: (e.g Telstra, Optus Unwired, Vodafone, AAPT); Vendors (e.g Motorola, NCC, MTN, Etisalat, Globacom, Airtel, NIGCOMSAT); Computer companies (Microsoft, IBM, Google); Telecom Regulators; Universities; Multimedia, Computer & Mobile communications Companies; TV & Radio broadcasting, Remote sensing, and Next-generation networks. At Baze University, the B.Eng. Telecommunication Programme offers high-quality education with a curriculum firmly grounded in telecommunication engineering fundamentals. The programme consists of lectures, laboratories, projects, and practical training. There is a mentorship scheme to ensure that students are properly guided and tutored and staff are always willing to go the extra mile.

The Telecommunications Laboratory with State-of-the-art Antenna Trainer

Telecommunication Laboratory Showing TDM Pulse Amplitude Modulation trainer, ASK Modulation/Demodulation Trainer, Fibre Optics Trainer, DSB/SSB Receiver Trainer 37

Excellence in Delivery The core philosophy at Baze is founded on the belief that great teachers need great tools, to deliver unique but impactful learning experiences. The University has transformed Pedagogy from the use of traditional tools to more computerized, dynamic, and interactive ones. In all Faculties, the best teaching tools are deployed by staff to ensure effective delivery and these include Operating System enabled Smartboards, Projectors and Simulators all connected online through a central LAN -Network.

The delivery methods go beyond physical classroom contacts, as lecturers maximize other remote educational tools including Google classroom, Turnitin, etc to ensure that student stay connected for continuous training and interaction. During the CORONAVIRUS Lockdown, there was no panic as we all simply transitioned into the full online mode. In line with the University’s policy, staff are mandated to utilize these tools and are constantly trained on newer tools and systems to keep them up to date. The system is supported by a feedback portal activated at the end of every semester to determine the impact of the teacher, tools and methods on students, and staff have to provide evidence of complete compliance during the Annual Staff Appraisal Review Exercise.

A typical Classroom with Public Address System, Projector, Smartboard and White Board.

Teaching Never Stops: Engineering Lecturers delivering Classes Online during the COVID-19 pandemic Lockdown 38

Training Engineers for tomorrow’s industry in Nigeria The training of Engineers in Nigeria is broadly governed by legal frameworks provided by two institutions – the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria. NUC provides Approvals to deserving universities to offer training programs in Engineering to qualified students while COREN is specifically for the regulation of the training and practice of engineering in Nigeria to ensure that quality and standards are preserved. NUC and COREN have issued, independently, the quality control document known as Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS) prescribing minimum curriculum content for training in various fields of engineering in Nigerian universities. BMAS is periodically reviewed to ensure that training remains relevant to national needs and realities. In the Faculty of Engineering at Baze University, our programmes go beyond the BMAS as students are given wide ranging experiences to set them apart from others. The Faculty explores deliberate cooperation and collaboration with the industry, private sector and professional bodies so that students gain practical experiences from available facilities and the feedback provides the pathway for further curriculum development and review.

As a policy within the Faculty, every final year student is required to work on a project that solves a particular engineering problem bedeviling the society. For example, a final year student came up with a cheaper, faster, and more hygienic solution to how rural communities can conserve energy while cooking; this invention can be shared and replicated anywhere in Africa. The Faculty is also collaborating with international engineering organizations that offer solutions into unique problems within the African continent. This allows our students to be exposed to best practice solutions to immediate societal problems during their programmes to improve their employability after graduation. The Faculty has established a Research Center called Baze University Water and Environment Research Center (BUWERC) located in the Department of Civil Engineering. So far, the center has extracted commitment and working relationship with several lead companies in Nigeria and International Development Partners including the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Faculty of Engineering hosting the first IEEE African Student and Young Professional Congress (ASYPC)

Baze University Engineering Student on Industrial Training with Julius Berger Plc.

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FACULTY OF ENGINEERING 2020 OPEN DAY - MEMORABLE MOMENTS

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FACULTY OF ENGINEERING 2020 OPEN DAY - MEMORABLE MOMENTS

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Faculty of Engineering: Robotics Program for Young Girls with Engr. Hajara Kabeer.

Promoting Gender Inclusivity in Engineering Female participation in Engineering is steadily increasing in Nigeria, three decades ago, the Association of Professional Women Engineers (APWEN) had only 6 members, today the number has risen to 3,000. Today, one of the country’s most successful Tech & IT Service Provider - Outsource Global Technologies Ltd - is owned and operated by a woman. Other promising enterprises such as CoAmana, are changing the narrative of female participation; but progress is at an excruciatingly slow pace. There is still much work to be done to sustain gender inclusivity. There is need to locate passion at the grassroots and strive for success at individual and community levels.

To attract more females, the Faculty of Engineering recently organized an Open-day event for secondary school students who were invited to a Facility Tour to get an in-depth view on the various programmes offered. The special focus was on female students and we are happy about their interest to pursue Engineering as soon as they graduate. The Faculty has a special mentorship programme for its female students, and this has tremendously reduced attrition rates. The Faculty will continue to drive this vision of growth, equality and progress.

A Vision for the Future The future for the Faculty is bright. The milestones in the past five years is a testimony: recruitment of quality staff, procurement of high-end equipment, attainment of full accreditation status for all Engineering Programmes, etc; the possibilities for future growth are endless. The vision is to become the number one Engineering powerhouse institution of innovation on the African continent. The strategy is to constantly improve course delivery, curriculum, teaching methods, internship periods, employment prospects, etc. To this end, the Faculty will strengthen its performance metrics and track its feedback loop in line with international best practice standards. *Dr. Nuradeen Labaran TANKO is an Associate Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering

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FACULTY OF LAW: SUSTAINING INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS Kathleen OKAFOR* The Faculty of Law in Baze University runs a student-centred learning programme where students learn hands-on. In the past year, and especially during the months of the COVID - 19 Pandemic Lockdown, students were engaged in several innovative activities. Some of these activities that took place in the year are presented below: Baze University Law Clinic.

The Law Clinic has Units which include Pre-Trial Detainee Law Clinic, International Humanitarian Law Clinic and the Migration and Trafficked Persons Law Clinic. This diversity is to create robust avenues for students to participate in clinic activities based on their personal areas of interest.

Pre-trial Detainee Law Clinic In 2018 students of the Pre-Trial Detainee law clinic (clinicians) were engaged in a project called the 24-month Reforming Pre-trial Detention in Kuje Prison Project (Reform Kuje). This project is funded by the United States Department for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INLC) and other partners include Partners Global, West Africa Nigeria and Network of University Legal Institutions (NULAI). There was an exchange visit to the United States in 2019 under Prof. Ernest Ojukwu, the Chairman of Baze University Law Clinic Committee. During the exchange visit students learnt about the United States Legal System and how the Law clinics in Maryland and Georgetown Universities operate.

Under this project, the students have participated in Trainings, interviewed over 60 Pre-Trial Detainees in Kuje Correctional Facility, helped Detainees trace and inform family members of their whereabouts, observed Court Proceedings on Cases they handle and draft Court Proceedings under the supervision of pro bono Lawyers and the Law Clinic Supervisors.

Due to the success of the 1st phase of the project, the students of the Pre-Trial Detainee Law Clinic were invited to participate in the 2nd phase which kicked off in 2020 and is known as Reforming Pre-trial Detention in Nigeria (RPDN) Project. Under the new project, students have been engaged in online trainings, which involves pre- class, in-class, and post class activities.

Left: Dayo Ashonibare Secretary, Law Clinic & students participating in the training for the Kuje Prison Project organised by NULAI. Right: Students & Clinic supervisor engaged in Case Review & Management

Left: Students of the Kuje Prison Project and a lawyer during case observation at the Federal High Court Abuja.

Middle: February 2020 - Law Clinic supervisors (Remi Famodile, Tosin Oke and Maryam Idris Abdulkadir) and students visited the Kuje Custodial Centre, Abuja (students conducted interviews on pre-trial detainees) 43

International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Clinic Since inception, the students in this Clinic have participated in Moot Court Competitions which have exposed them to International Law practice, they have visited Internally Displaced Persons Camps to interview victims of armed conflict and have provided humanitarian assistance. In July 2020 the IHL Clinic organized a webinar for students with the aim of disseminating the knowledge on IHL activities.

IHL Webinar organized by students of IHL Clinic of Baze University

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Migration and Trafficked persons Law Clinic In February 2020, the Association for Juridical Studies on Immigration (ASGI) organized a Conference in Lagos and invited Baze University Law Clinic. In 2019, ASGI designed a project called- the Oruka project to counter national, European and international policies that have been put in place to limit freedom of movement of non-European citizens and their right to asylum. This project also seeks to address Human Rights violation for Asylum seekers and trafficked persons, lack of sufficient data on returnees to Nigeria and lack access to justice for victims of these violations.

In line with the Motto of the Clinic; Access to Justice for ALL and the issues that migrants and trafficked persons face that smacks social injustice and lack of access to justice, the Baze University Law Clinic established the Migration and Trafficked Persons Law Clinic. ASGI is happy about this development and have requested a synergy with the clinic in the following areas: Training and workshop about situation in Italy/Europe, Mutual exchange of practices about cases, Simulation of strategic litigations in view of future strategic litigations, and Collaborative Desk and Internship in the ORUKA project for students. The Migration and Trafficked persons Law Clinic in the University of Turin, Italy also took interest in the Baze University M&TP Law Clinic. In July 2020, the clinic in Italy invited the M& TP Law Clinic students of Baze University to an online meeting to discuss future collaborations.

Clockwise: 1st-3rd Pictures - Zoom Meetings between Students of University of Turin and Baze University M&TP Law Clinics.

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Students’ Network

The Faculty of Law encourages students’ Field Trips to notable Law Firms, and Government Agencies to obtain first-hand experience on how such offices operate. Students are supported to compete with other universities in programmes like the NULAI Client Interview and Counselling Competition. Students are also guided to engage in Campaigns to commemorate notable International Dates like the International Day for Women, World Earth Day and the NULAI Climate Justice Campaign e.t.c.

Clockwise: 1st Pic: Prof. Ernest Ojukwu, Chair Baze Univ. Law Clinic, in NULAI Fresh Air Campaign (Climate Justice).

2nd Pic: Coordinator Baze Law Clinic at the Justice for Climate Campaign.

3rd Pic: Ms. Remi Famodile, Supervisor Law Clinic at the NULAI Fresh Air Campaign ( Climate Justice).

4th Pic: Dayo Ashonibare (Sec. Law Clinic), Tosin Oke & Remi Famodile at the NULAI Fresh Air Campaign.

5th-7th Pic: Students of the Faculty of Law in the NULAI Fresh Air Campaign (Climate Justice) 8th Pic: Dayo Ashonibare (Sec. Law Clinic) at the 2020 International Women’s Day. 9th & 10th Pics: Students of the Faculty at the International Women's Day, 2020 11th Pic: Visit by Students to EFCC Office Headquarters in Abuja.

*Prof. Kathleen OKAFOR, FCIArb, is the Dean of the Faculty of Law

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Innovative Solutions to Online Teaching in Environmental Sciences Amina Lawal BATAGARAWA* The new normal The Covid-19 pandemic has caused a huge setback for the world. As part of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Guidelines for managing the virus; most countries have had to impose a lockdown as a preventive measure to curb the spread of the virus and also an indirect way to reduce the pressure on the Health care Systems. The lockdown resulted in the closure of businesses, factories, industries, offices, schools, hotels, and other public and private organisations.

Nigeria was not been spared of this biological calamity as the whole country grinded to a halt with the total closure which seriously affected all educational institutions including Universities. A direct implication of the closure of educational institutions is that many who had IT infrastructure quickly moved from the face to face teaching and learning to the online system. Baze University transited to remote learning in the early days of the lockdown. This transition was remarkably more challenging to practical based Faculties like the Environmental Sciences which offers Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Degree in Architecture, Building, Estate Management, Quantity Surveying, Surveying & Geo-informatics and Urban and Regional Planning.

Challenges of Online Learning As a normal routine before the lockdown, teaching methods in all the six Departments relied heavily on practical demonstrations and laboratory work that give students robust experiences to produce true professionals in the field. Thus, students and staff faced several challenges with regards to teaching and learning online. These challenges were in relation to the Learners, the Content, and the Instructors. The issues related to Learners include learners’ expectations, readiness, identity, and participation in online learning. For the Content, the issues were in relation to content development, integration of multi-media in content, instructional strategies in content development, and considerations for content development. The issues related to instructors may be summarised into the four specific categories: changing faculty roles, transition from faceto-face to online, faculty time management, and teaching styles. Other challenges were unavoidable technical and technological issues, especially for a developing country like Nigeria.

There are several tools available to aid online teaching and learning. Baze University has a robust digital technological system in place that services all the classrooms using the Google Suite, including the GMAIL. For those already conversant with the services, the transition was easier than for those who remained ‘analog' in teaching methods. The latter are in the minority, and the University laid down pre-requisites to facilitate the process: possession of gadgets like Laptops and Tablets and the ability to use them adequately, preparation of lecture notes and assessments on e-formats, free data bundles for staff and students, surety for staff to procure gadgets through ICT loan, etc. So, whereas the idea of shifting learning experience to Online platform was overwhelming for all, adjustment to the new system was quick.

Generally, connectivity became the biggest issue faced by all students and staff, many in different locations not properly serviced by service providers. A good internet connection is based on location, good weather, strength of network service, e.t.c. and when one or more factor is affected, access to the internet becomes compromised. However, staff and students have come up with innovative ways to deal with this challenge. On connectivity issues, students and staff identify the best network that works for them at different locations. Some have acquired new Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards with multi-location network conditions to enable switching while being mobile. The persons with gadgets that rely on electricity have made room for power-storing devices like Portable Power Banks, Rechargeable Power Blocks, Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Units, e.t.c.

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The second most prominent challenge was working or receiving lectures from the home environment, whereas the work environment is designed to promote efficiency, the home environment is cosy and restful. The unification of these two spaces have always proven conflicting to people and at time with adverse effect with a possibility of an Online session being interrupted or disrupted by home activities. Students and staff respond to this by setting up a smaller environment within the home.

Fig. 1: Fatima Baba (400 Level student) using manual drafting equipment in her home studio.

Another challenge was time management; use of the Online Assessment Format and the intervals between assessments became intriguing. For persons taking or offering 7 to 13 courses per trimester, there is a compulsory turn-in of course assignments on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. This process becomes even more frantic during the examination period because of the gravity of work.

To curb the problem of time management, students and staff organized Online classes and sessions through the Google Classroom. This platform contains tools that ease the process of issuing lecture notes and tests and collecting submissions. For instance, explaining and working on mathematical formulae and algorithm is difficult for students to follow through. Our staff solved this issue by presenting formulae and algorithms boldly to the students Online, explaining them slowly and gradually and solving questions together to confirm their answers before giving homework after each lecture. A trick is to call students by their names to ensure attentiveness and participation, award marks for Class Attendance, adopt the Rule of no attendance - no acceptance of homework/ assignment, informal communication of schedules, repeat disrupted lectures that was due to internet failures, make personal phone calls to students before commencement of lectures to reduce absenteeism, send reminders to students to get their practical items ready, record lectures so students can catch up with classes in the event of extenuating circumstances, etc. Online delivery of practical courses means the hands-on experience is absent. To minimise the effect, the process of design and developing a portfolio is promoted with the use of mixed methods of teaching and assessment. These include videos, animations, Computer Aided Design software, and electronic portfolio services such as Google Slides, group projects, prototype and modelling, competitions and community development projects as shown in the pictures presented below.

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Fig. 2: Interactive sessions with student showing ability to collect data, analyse challenges and proffer solutions

Figure 3: Feedback from staff based on students submissions

Fig. 4: Environmental Day E-Participants

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In view of the ingenious ways that proved effective using remote learning during the Covid -19 Pandemic Lockdown, education of the future may never be the same again. Educational institutions may eventually rely on Online platforms as back-ups to avoid major setbacks in case of emergencies, or permanently integrate the online delivery into the education system for a blended approach. The Faculty of Environmental Sciences is confident that whatever challenges come up in the future, we will develop coping strategies to produce world class professionals in line with the quality associated with Baze University and as shown by some students’ works below.

Fig. 5: Computer Aided Drafting for Students in the Department of Architecture

*Dr. Amina Lawal BATAGARAWA is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Architecture at the Faculty of Environmental Sciences.

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Mobile Technology: Good Servant, Terrible Master .

James DANIEL* Preamble There are about 7.7 billion people in the world today. It is projected that 3.5 billion use smartphones worldwide and this translates to 45.4% smartphone penetration rate (O’dea,2020). This means four out of ten persons in the world have smartphones. According to Global Mobile Workforce Forecast Update 2016-2022, Mobile Technology has taken over the lives of human beings, and it is ruling the world via Social Media with global mobile workforce estimated to reach 1.87 billion by 2022.

What is Mobile Technology and Social Media?

The question to ask is what is this Mobile Technology and the Social Media? Mobile Technology is a portable two-way communication computing device with an installed networking technology. Mobile technology is typified by Internet-enabled devices like Smartphones, Tablets, and Watches. It has surreptitiously taken over the world and may be said to rule the lives of 60% of youths in the world (under 40 years of age). It is a technology that follows the owner to wherever he goes. The Social Media on the other hand has an interactive computer mediated technology designed to facilitate the creation and sharing of information, ideas, career interests, and other forms of expressions through virtual communities and networks.

Is Mobile Technology Detrimental to the Society?

It is not unusual these days to walk into a public facility filled with young people and not be noticed by anyone because they are glued to one form of mobile technology or the other. It is, as if, nobody really cares! More so, that the individual that walked into this space did not notice anyone because his eyes and ears are captives of some form of technology.

Conjecturally, perhaps the person he almost tripped over, was also typing away on the phone.

In this scenario, one would expect someone would break the ice with an exchange of words like, “I’m sorry”, “I’m good, are you okay?”, or “Hey! Watch where you’re going.” But no, not one word of remorse! I am sure many people can relate to these backdrops.

Technology which was meant to make life easier appears to have numbed our sensitivity to people and the world around us? Has relegated our relationship quotient to the lowest ebb, thereby creating millions of mobile technology maximum prison cells? As enticing and fun as mobile technology appears to be, it is detrimental to our form and development of society because of the many negative ways it impacts relationships, health and creativity and our psychic.

According to Sherry Turkle, (2015), “When we become too dependent on our mobile phones, we lose our ability to have deeper, and more spontaneous conversations with others, changing the nature of our social interactions in alarming ways. Once, you introduce a cell phone into a social interaction, it does two things: first, it degrades the quality of what you are talking about, because you want to talk about things where you wouldn't mind being interrupted, which makes sense, and, secondly, it decreases the empathic connection that people feel toward each other.”

The use of mobile devices is at the bottom of many conflicts and the collapse of relationships of all types and shades – family, friendship, romance, acquaintance, formal, emotions, etc., In 2017, Kings University Texas, USA provided some statistics; People tap, swipe, text, and click their smartphones an average of 2,617 times per day. For the top 10% users, this number doubled to 5,427 touches per day. That is about 1 million touches per year and 2.42 hours of phone screen time per day.

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More serious users interacted with their phones even more, at 3.75 hours per day. This data includes all types of interactions, from reading and sending texts to scrolling on social media. iPhone users unlock their phones an average of 80 times per day, while according to Business Insider, Android users unlock their phones 110 times per day. This means that, in an average day of usage, iPhone users check their phones six to seven times per hour, or once every 10 minutes. Frequent smartphone usage within conversations can have a negative effect on communication and relationship with others during social engagements, and this is often seen as intrusive and disruptive. In some cases, it might be said that we have fallen more in love with digital interaction than with face to face social interactions. Dependence on technology for work, play, learning, communication, navigation, looking up meanings of words and shelving away boredom has acutely punctured holes into interpersonal relationships. When mobile devices are present, eye contacts, handshakes, hugs, intimacy, and conversations shrink to mono-syllabic, reluctant, emotionless groans and interrupted whispers. The real world seems to fade in comparison with long hours of chats and hundreds of messages, but those long hours can never substitute the human need for touch and real-life community.

Rich Social Relationships Nothing exasperates a partner than pulling out a smartphone on a dinner date and attachment to your phone sabotages relationship with a loved one. Many people tend to develop a fastpsychological relationship with the smartphone and this triggers emotional competitive jealousy in human relationship. Surely, even without much analyses and statistics from huge studies, one can fathom that mobile technology is detrimental to relationships; let’s bring it home. What hap pened the last time you went to the park or to lunch with your friends? It was meant to be a time to hang out with each other but let me guess what happened, each of you probably ended up hanging out with your cell phones, texting, playing games, touching, scrolling, and clicking like a hundred times within the one hour of socializing. The tradition of talking about how our day went and other sweet nothings we talk about over dinner that glue the family together has been bullied away by the presence of smartphones on the dining tables. If you have kids, you may be able to relate to this true-life scenario: I always love it, whenever I get home and my little kids run to me – hugs, kisses, someone singing and searching my pockets for candy or any goodies at all. That makes my day. But what happens if they have a mobile device in their hands or in front of them? Your guess is as good as mine or you might be speaking from experi ence. No hugs, no salutations, at best, you may get a cold distant “welcome Daddy” and that is a delight killer right there. Times when I’ve followed my jealousy, (let’s just call it love for now) and dared to take away the mobile device, the reaction ranges from emotional outbursts of tears to some form of mini civil or cold war in some cases, which naturally ruin our time togeth er temporarily because everyone gets upset. Entire relationships are becoming defined through mobile texting and colourful little emotions, from saying "I love you" to "I think we should move on." So, we talk less and text more, whereas, satisfying the social need of human beings cannot even be scratched by sending and responding to codes like machines and robots. The lack of satisfaction leads to frustration which produces negative emotions deeply locked within or exhib ited as transferred aggression towards unintended people.

Healthy living While it is vital to pay some attention to relationships being dulled by the influence of mobile technology and too much time spent on the screen, we should equally pay attention to the influence of mobile technology on our health. Mobile technology has enormous negative potential impact on our physical and psychological wellbeing. The ubiquitous use of smartphones in modern society has created a new psychological malady known as nomophobia, the anxiety or fear experienced when one is unable to access technology.

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Healthy living A nomophobe is incredibly stressed and uncomfortable in the loss of a smartphone or inability to get online; a symptom which alludes addiction to technology. Small text and bright screens can strain mobile phone users’ eyes. Since tablet computers, smartphones, and other hand-held devices are designed for reading at close range, users’ eyes must constantly refocus and reposition to process the graphics and text on screen. As digital use increases, so do potential vision problems, including eye strain. eye redness or irritation, dry eyes, blurred vision, back pain, neck pain, and headaches. It is claimed that looking down your smartphone, with chin to your chest, puts about 27 kilograms of force on the neck.

Of course, Smartphones and other mobile devices give us faster access and perform actions faster but overdependence on them has drastically reduced the necessity to engage our brains actively, deeply and relatively. Most people don’t bother to recharge their brains for even the simplest mental activities such as basic mathematical calculations as long as they have a mobile device with them. Using their brain or putting pen to paper becomes the anomaly, making smartphones a brain drain. Many creators will agree that creative ideas come easily during relaxed, leisure moments, when the mind is unfocused and available to the gifts of the unconsciousness. With the way mobile devices are used these days – constantly checking emails and social media, scrolling, sharing, liking or disliking, clicking etc., that relaxed, leisure, unfocused moments that open the door wide to creativity and innovations may be eluding the society fast.

A Challenge to Intellectual Capacities As a parent, I have noticed that kids use their toys and what they find in their environment creatively when no technology devices are present or active. My 3-year old grandchild in particular will give names to his toys, tell stories, make up dialogues between cars, super-heroes and Paw Patrol characters; you can watch him entertain himself for hours and not be bored. You can also be sure to have a happy camper for the rest of the day. Compare that with a day he manages to sneak a tablet or phone off you, you better be ready for a fight when you want to retrieve that device. Studies have attributed behaviours like aggressiveness, poor judgment, and lack of self-control to people hooked to mobile devices and the Internet.

Individuals with Internet addiction have been found to have less grey matter in several important areas of the brain, including the frontal lobes, the striatum, and the insula. These conclusions published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience describe what we do to ourselves when we plant ourselves in front of screens (smartphones, tablets, computers, or TVs). Such devices deliver instant gratification that hardly exist in the real world, heightening the preference for virtual reality. With the sleek Google lady’s voice directing you left and right on your journey, map reading that gives children the spatial sense of their environment is been thrown to the dogs.

Spatial reasoning is a critical skill for students. Glued to virtual reality, students are losing the ability to visualize and create in the real world. They are also getting lazy. Unlike reading a book, which prompts children to flex their cognitive muscles, watching TV or using a tablet spoon-feeds ideas and images to them. The device does the thinking; while the student only passively absorbs with little substantive involvement.

Making True Friends With mobile technology, particularly the social media, making friends is much faster than by face to face interactions. However, how many of these social media friends are truly friends?

When you have to get to the emergency ward and there are no family members nearby, can you call on your Facebook friend who lives abroad to take you there? There is usually no commitment to or from friends made on social media platforms.

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Communities on social media platforms are great but they cannot satisfy the human need for conversations, or replace empathy and intimacy in face to face conversations – eye contact, tones and melodies of another person’s voice, body movements, gestures, overtures and the presence we sense, cherish, enjoy and feel. No doubt, portable communication technology provides convenient and efficient ways of keeping in touch with family members and friends.

In many cases, the availability of smartphones has saved lives and averted potential harms due to speed of communication. However, we need to bear in mind that what necessitated the keeping in touch or tracking in the first place is the face to face relationship that had been established.

Why not, if not?

Portable communication technology is not bad and nobody can brush aside positive effects of the social media on current affairs, governance, medicine, politics, etc. What is detrimental is the over-use and over-dependence, and of course, the negative usage culminating in fake news and misinformation. A future without technology is bleak but living in greater harmony with it for present is best. Mankind must not allow communication devices to be the master, rather it must be a service to be maximized according to cherished cultural values. Therefore, in those human moments, accept that life is not a steady “feed,” and learn to savour the pace of conversation—for empathy, for community, for creativity and for initiative. Just like money, mobile technology can be an exceptionally good servant, but a very terrible master, don’t let it control you; I think you should control it. Why not, if not?

*Dr. James O. DANIEL, FNLA, FCAI is the University Librarian

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BAZE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL (BUTH) - Photo Speak The Baze University Teaching Hospital (BUTH) is a 150 Bed facility project currently under construction and expected to be fully commissioned by the first quarter of 2020. It will be a Center of Excellence for Medical Services and Training. The Hospital will have 26 Service Departments (ER/ICU, Oncology, Neurology, Medicine & Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology), modern facilities and state of the art equipment. Patient wards will range from 6 room occupancy, double rooms, single rooms as well as VIP suites to cater for all needs. The teaching and learning facilities will be of international standard and meet all requirements by the Nigerian Medical and Dental Council as well as the National Universities Commission (NUC).

The photos below were taken before 25/11/20, there have been further developments on site at the time of publishing this magazine.

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BAZE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL (BUTH) - Photo Speak

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BAZE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL (BUTH) - Photo Speak

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BUILDING THE NIGERIA OF OUR DREAMS THROUGH LEADERSHIP TRAINING Oshioreamhe AGHEDO* For any organization to thrive and flourish, its leadership must be right, its values must be upheld, and its institutions must be protected. These rubrics also hold true for any nation that desires social, political, and economic development. It is common knowledge that any nation with the wrong set of leaders over time is simply a disaster waiting to happen. The expected will obviously be inevitable.

Nations that have consistently achieved any modicum of development and advancement in the areas of infrastructure, education, science & technology, healthcare, security, economy, etc., over time, have arguably sustainably observed these rubrics. Based on the forgoing, it may be safe to posit that any nation that fails to chart these noble parts, is most likely to fail in creating an egalitarian society and delivering the basic minimum standard of living to its citizens and residents. In this regard, the realities of most African countries have been a pathetic narrative.

An elderly friend once said that one of the most prominent natural disasters known and experienced in Nigeria is bad leadership. Be that as it may, history has proven that a nation cannot give what it does not have. Since Independence in 1960, Nigeria has failed in deliberately setting up institutions whose sole aim is to train and produce citizens who would take up political leadership and governance roles in the country. The unfortunate outcome of this deficiency is the current reality where people trained as farmers, teachers, military officers, etc., who are not adequately equipped with universally acceptable political and governance leadership training, are thrown up as leaders of a very complex nation like Nigeria, and expected to exhibit the skills and competences of deliberately trained minds.

The Nigerian leaders, just like most other African leaders, are simply operating within the know-hows of their training, knowledge, competences, and skills. They cannot function over and above their inherent capacities. The complexities and dynamism of Nigeria’s governance architecture are way above what the leaders thrown up by current political narratives could possibly comprehend and administer. The implication of this is that the nation’s political and economic governance fortunes may never improve, and by extension, its development and advancement may continually remain stifled.

These realities could however change for the better should the Nigerian Government or private individuals decide to replicate the deliberate efforts at African Youth Leadership training initiatives ongoing in Mauritius, South Africa, and other locations on the African continent. This movement is particularly aimed at training young Africans (through specialized institutions) and equipping them with the relevant continent-specific governance skills that would ensure a complete paradigm shift from the unfortunate political, social, and economic actualities currently being experienced across the continent.

These specialized institutions are built to redefine African Leadership Expectation across the continent, and on the premise that Africa’s future will be shaped by young people who commit each day to think differently, to break boundaries, and to do things in ways that are a complete departure from the old rhetoric. These institutions must be erected on the foundation that the continent’s leadership expectations must be completely re-defined and based on the understanding that the possibilities and opportunities on the continent are limitless.

The leadership training programme could take the form of a Two-Year deliberately structured Postgraduate Leadership course covering areas such as Governance, Politics, African Moral Values, Development Management & Administration, e-commerce, Law, Political & Economic Diplomacy, Inter-nations Economic Networking, Security & Conflict Management, Education, Finance, and Healthcare Advancement Skills, among very many others.

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These Institutions will enable lasting peace and shared prosperity by throwing up the absolute best of us, and developing, as well as equipping them as Africa’s next generation of ethical leaders.

Products of these Institutions would gradually take over the Local Government administrative structures, as well as the State Government administrative set up through the nation’s existing or amended political structures. This will eventually permeate the National Assembly as well as the Presidency. In the face of proper management of these processes, within a period of twenty years, the entire governance structure of the nation would be controlled by men and women who have the right training, skills and competencies to pilot the affairs of this great nation.

To achieve these however, there is the need for legislative enactments that would ensure, among others, that anyone who seeks political relevance in Nigeria must be an alumnus of any of these specialized institutions.

If the previous generations got it wrong, this generation could get it right. The young people of this continent, who are not just the hope for the future, but the leaders of today, can be trained and encouraged through these specialized institutions, to dream big, take action, and change their communities.

The hope for a better tomorrow still lies in Baze University’s Class 2021 and in all other young people across the continent that could help to actualize a Nigeria of our collective dreams through this proposed deliberate leadership training programme.

*Oshioreamhe AGHEDO, is a Deputy Registrar and the Dean of Students Affairs .

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CAN DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION MITIGATE THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON EDUCATION SYSTEMS IN NIGERIA? THE CASE OF BAZE UNIVERSITY Rislan KANYA* A Devastating Pandemic to the Education Sector The reality between February and March 2020, was that educational institutions from the global north to south were forced to shut down operations indefinitely, as staff and students were sent home because of the raging Covid-19 pandemic. With this sudden and abrupt shut down and no end in sight in overcoming this raging pandemic, there were troubling questions: are schools going to remain shut down indefinitely? or is there an enabling environment strategy to migrate to remote teaching and learning during this unending shut down? This created the need to ask the next question: If we move to remote teaching and learning, (popularly known as online or digital learning) how ready and prepared are we to migrate students online and produce quality results that will be at par with, or better than the traditional mode?

Within the first few weeks of the shutdown, it was evident that, even the well-resourced nations in the global North, struggled to set a direction in their attempt to move teaching and learning into an online digital platform. In Africa and other developing countries, digital transformation policies and associated palliatives were hastily conceptualized, developed and rolled out within a short period with little thought on the end goals, and achievable implementation plans. This policy formulation process, in normal climes can take up to a decade from conjecture to actual delivery. In order to graduate the Covid-19 pandemic-influenced digital transformation policy, from being the usual never -ending storytelling-like-policy associated with developing countries, considerable collaborative effort was made and this has not doubt yielded good result; sadly not for all student population groups but mainly for students from upper-class income background.

Some of the digital palliatives put forth included conceptualization, design, implementation and deployment of various digital infrastructures such as cloud and mobile computing, virtual private networks and closed user group networks (for voice and data exchange), learning management software, video conferencing platforms, online digital libraries and repositories, plagiarism detection and prevention software, etc. With the implementation of these digital tools, evidence is now abounding that they are significantly reducing the brutal effects of the pandemic on education. It is pertinent to note how some low resourced Federal, State and Local government in developing countries became ingenious to resuscitate the traditional distance-learning education system using radio and television broadcast, and in some cases paper correspondence between students and teachers or the schools (as a parent, I experienced all these intervention). Also, private primary, secondary and tertiary institutions globally were not left out in the attempt to guarantee continued learning to students, maintain a steady income to service salaries and the digital infrastructure while maintaining social distancing.

Examining Sectoral Damage My recent examination of the damage caused by the current pandemic in the education sector, indicate that about one billion students were added into the existing about 250 million out of school children as stated in the United Nation (UN) Covid-19 response documents. Further findings reveal that over 94% of children globally were out of school, and about 99% of them were from low to lower-middle-income countries. In Nigeria, the pandemic scaled up the 13.2 million existing out of school children before ethe pandemic to over 46 million as stated in a report published by School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). Furthermore, a report published by Save the Children states that over 9.7 million children in Nigeria post-Covid-19 pandemic may never go back to school again.

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Further to this scary number as published by SOAS are two question that remains unanswered to date:

Do households have the facilities to engage their children in remote learning?

Do teachers have the skills and digital facilities to deliver live lesson or record massive open online course (MOOC) styled lesson?”

While searching for answers to these questions from the SOAS Report, let me end the first part of this article by putting forth, another food for thought from the speech of the United Nation Secretary General (Antonio Guterres) at the launch of the “Save Our Future” campaign.

“Now we face a generational catastrophe that could waste untold human potential, undermine decades of progress, and exacerbate entrenched inequalities..., The decisions that governments and partners take now will have a lasting impact on hundreds of millions of young people, and on the development prospects of countries for decades to come.”

Sustainable Digital Transformation Strategy Having laid this foundation which I believe will be useful in my story on how I led the digital transformation (DT) strategy at Baze University (where I have worked for about a decade as Director IT Services) to win a battle against the disruption that came with the Covid-19 pandemic. In the 2019 edition of the Baze Focus Magazine, I published an article titled “Digital Transformation In Higher Education: The Baze Example” and I told our readers how Baze university conceptualized, developed and implemented an inclusive, resilient and sustainable Digital Transformation Strategy. To refresh our memory, let me share George Westerman definition of Digital Transformation, which I used in that article:

“Digital Transformation is a radical rethinking of how an organization uses technologies, people and processes to fundamentally change business performance.”

George’s definition of DT is the answer to the question asked in the SOAS report and the statement of Antonio Guterres (the UN Chief) at the launch of the “Save our Future” campaign. Let me repeat DT remains one of the core solutions to numerous challenges associated with Covid-19 pandemic disruption. In the closing part of my last year’s article, I enumerated how we implemented our DT strategy and concluded the article with a hypothetical statement where I said:

“digital platforms are expected to lead Baze into next level of digital transformation through the fullscale deployment of learning analytics and other transformation initiatives”.

Disruptive Innovation Incidentally, in not too far time, this hypothetical statement has now become a reality and has coincided with what late Professor Clayton Christensen (author and Harvard University Professor whom I highly resect and inspired by his work “disruptive innovation” who sadly passed away early this year) predicted in 2017 that 1/3 of Colleges and Universities in the USA will be bankrupt or close by 2030. Although researches are ongoing in documenting how basic and higher education schools are affected by the current pandemic, preliminary findings have shown that many schools have closed down, bankrupt or are unable to pay salaries and support overhead cost. Also, the thirst of campus-based education is losing standing as more students are now considering enrolling into remote digital learning or online courses. Further findings on the effect of Covid-19 pandemic on education have revealed that many private schools in Nigeria fell into a full or partial bankrupt status, but for the Baze University, thanks to the foresight of our founder on investment in digital transformation at the onset.

On the 19th March 2020, when the Federal Ministry of Education in Nigeria directed all schools to close operations from the 23rd of March, 2020 until further notice to reduce the spread of the pandemic, the number of emails I usually receive in personalized-official capacity, and my department ServiceDesk email increased by over 600% from staff and students. The frequently asked question was always: “how are we going to roundup the semester while maintaining physical distancing?”

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Crossing the valley of death As we continued responding to the growing volumes of emails and phones calls, on the 20 th of March, I had several emergency meetings with my key staff on how to cross the “valley of death” of the Covid-19 pandemic and prepare for implementation of any outcome of the planned senate emergency meeting scheduled by the Vice-Chancellor on the 23rd of March 2020. On the 21st of March 2020, around 11:30 in the night, I received a call from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) Administration. In normal circumstances he would send an email, a text, or a WhatsApp message outside office hours. Without any pleasantry at all, and a mouthful as I picked his call, he retorted “Rislan do you think we have the capacity to complete our outstanding 3 weeks teaching and learning online?” More than 10 seconds of silence went by without a response from me as I reflected on his question, so he repeated the question with as much urgency and relevance in his tone of voice as I have ever heard. With some courage and calculated calm, I responded to him

“yes sir, we have the basic infrastructure necessary to enable us to complete the semester online, but we need total buy-in from staff and students”

As I continued discussing with the DVC on the phone, I received a notice of call-waiting from the Registrar, so I immediately alerted the DVC of this and asked if I could merge Registrar’s call knowing this was likely to be on the same issue. The DVC reluctantly agreed, and we extended the conversation and concluded with the need for me to revamp our digital transformation strategy on how to seamlessly move from brick-and-mortar teaching to digital classroom to be presented at the planned senate meeting.

In the first phase of my digital transformation strategy presentation at the Senate Emergency Meeting held on the 23rd March 2020, I identified key gaps that needed to be addressed immediately to enable us to migrate fully into remote and digital teaching and learning: 1. Weak digital literacy among staff and students.

2. Need to improve our foundational infrastructure (computing devices, power and network connections).

3. Need for our staff, students, and parents to understand why we have to adopt remote learning and digital pedagogy and their associated tools.

4. How to effectively engage, connect and collaborate with students via digital/remote instructions.

5. How to leverage on ready-made learning contents since this change occurred un-planned.

6. How to evaluate the quality and validity of assessments while examining students remotely and digitally.

The six gaps mentioned above were extensively debated, action point and implementation champions identified and appointed while Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were set to measure implementation success/failure. The first gap was assigned to me and the Registrar, the second gap was assigned to the Pro-chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration and Director IT Services, the third, fourth, fifth and six gaps were assigned to myself, the Registrar, Director Academic Planning, Faculty Deans, Head of Academic Department (HODs), Lecturers, Faculty Officers, Students and the parents.

Sustaining Digital Capacities Permit me to again return to my last year’s article in the Baze Focus Magazine where I enumerated how my Directory, the Directorate of Information Technology Services (DITS) within the last ten years is championing the implementation of an integrated and unified digital platform which enabled and is still enabling the digital transformation journey at Baze University.

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In that article, I mentioned 12 core projects implemented, due to space constraint, I will only summarize five of the services that enable us to achieve resiliency and sustainability while experiencing the most difficult moment of our lifetime: 1.Baze University Enterprise Planning (ERP): This is a homegrown software package (conceptualized, designed, developed and maintained in-house) that is core to all our operations. This ERP handles and supports our end-to-end operations and workflow (application, admission, enrolment, registration, staff and students attendance and monitoring to ensure compliance with business rules, examination governance, management and processing, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and quality assurance, Staff and Students evaluation, library, timetabling and calendaring, payments and collections, human resources management, alumni relations, library and resource management and also support business intelligence, and other numerous operations) 2.Google workspace: An integrated cloud computing platform that enables real-time, seamless and simple connection, collaboration and facilitation between staff and students and parents. This service has been in operations at Baze since inception and is central to our operations, some of the key tools and benefits we derive from this platform include: a.Institution-wide email for one to one and one to many communications b.Personalized and shared calendars for scheduling and reminders c.Learning management software (LMS) for digital pedagogy, curriculum and contents development and sharing, management of assignments and feedback d.Video and voice conferencing application for Realtime face-to-face lecturers (video, audio and screen sharing), tutorials, projects briefing and meetings and also for recording the real-time face to face lectures. e.Documents management (Folders, Slides, Spreadsheet and word processing) for creating and co-creating, folders and files, and edit in real-time f.Forms for creating surveys and quizzes, assessments and final examinations 3.Online digital contents and resources running on digital catalogue, databases and repositories such as koha, DSpace, Law Pavilion, Lexis and Nexis, eGranary, EBSCOhost, IEEE Xplore, eGranary, MIT Open Courseware, EDX, Coursera, etc.

4.Digital and cloud-based laboratories for simulation and modelling (Oracle, IBM, Cyberoam, Cisco, Panasonic, Microsoft, Adobe, Matlab, Maya, Google cloud, Google Sketch, Petex, etc.)

5.Turnitin plagiarism detection software to detect and reduce plagiarism and also improve academic integrity Full implementation and adoption of the above tools and other tools, not listed have enabled Baze University to experience zero disruption of academic activities, recruit two cohorts of new students and also scale up its digital transformation agenda. This leads naturally to a sporadic increase in the utilization of our digital platforms and digital literacy competencies among staff and students as seen from usage analytics in the following pictures. This usage analytics and associated evidence from our learning analytics and user access analytics derived from our data-lake (data from digital classrooms, recordings from the video conferencing meetings, plagiarism detection software reports, google drives and docs, and from our ERP) reveals over 1000% increase in the utilization of our digital services among staff and students since April 2020.

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Fig. 1: Email utilization analytics

Fig. 2: Drive & documents utilization analytics

Fig. 3: Video conferencing application utilization analytics.

Fig. 4: Digital Classroom Utilization Analytics

Future Plans Further analytics reveals many improvements in both our core and support operations (planning and timetabling, progression, and registration, continues and final assessments workflow, student’s payment and collections, evaluations and management of KPIs, among other numerous operations). For example, the number of registration, progression and post examinations and continuous assessments complaints dropped to over 600% because of seamless and enhanced real-time online/off-campus workflow that eliminated human mediation.

As the pandemic continues, we need to investigate the future, adjust to the new normal and plan for possible threats, evaluate the efficiency and efficacy of our digital transformation strategy, build more sustainable and resilient digital infrastructure and invest more in digital literacy and capacity development. We also need to invest more on standard digital curriculum development, grow contents creation and development and evaluate digital pedagogy and methodology to support a critical graduate mass that can compete in the future already dominated by Artificial Internet of Things (AIoT) and other computer-mediated intervention. Lastly, we also need to look at the recent interventions in the digital transformation beyond the current pandemic but as part of our integral future action plan that complements the traditional face to face teaching and learning.

*Dr. Rislan Abdulazeez KANYA, MBCS, CITP, MCPN, MNCS, SMIEE is the Director IT Services

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GROWING POSTGRADUATE STUDIES AT BAZE UNIVERSITY, ABUJA 1.0 INTRODUCTION: In the October 2019 edition of this magazine, we reported the commencement of postgraduate programmes at the University. We named the thirteen (13) programmes approved for the University by the National Universities Commission (NUC), the admission requirements and duration of each programme. About a year now after that publication, we are delighted to report the progress we have made so far in implementing the approved programmes.

2.0 THE NUMBERS: We started with four (4) programmes in the 2018/2019 academic year with twenty-two (22) registered students out of the forty-one (41) we offered provisional admission. The programmes were MSc Management, MSc International Relations & Diplomacy, MSc Mass Communications and Master of Business Administration (MBA). Four (4) students of the one-year MSc International Relations & Diplomacy programme obtained their degrees at the 6th Convocation ceremony of the University that took place on October 26th, 2019. In the forthcoming 2020 graduation exercise, most of the pioneer students in the MSc and MBA programmes will receive their degrees. Meanwhile, in the current 2020/2021 academic year, we have given provisional admission to 55 students to bring the total number of PG students to 205. The growth in PG student population is remarkable, thanks to the support of the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Council, Senator Y.D. Baba-Ahmed (PhD), who has been willing to fund advert programmes on radio and television, including the current advert on DSTV for the University.

3.0 MASTER OF LAWS PROGRAMME: The Postgraduate School commenced the Master of Laws (LLM) Programme during the 2019/2020 academic year. The mission of the programme is to offer quality and competitive graduate legal education which prepares students for value-added legal practice as well as helping them to contribute towards resolving our challenges of development and governance. The programme runs for 12 calendar months and has been hugely popular with legal practitioners, law makers and fresh graduates. Admission is open to applicants with bachelor of laws (LLB) degree from approved universities with a minimum of second class honours (Lower Division).

4.0 NEW PhD PROGRAMME: Having graduated two sets of MSc students, the University was poised to offer its first doctoral programme. That came from the Department of Business Management in the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences. The PhD programme in Management was approved by the University Senate on 11th September 2020 after a careful consideration by the Postgraduate Board. The mission of the programme is to produce high-quality graduates who possess relevant theoretical, practical, managerial and research skills for the business world and academia. The 3-year programme is intended for outstanding MSc and MBA graduates in Management.

5.0 CLASSIFICATION OF MSc DEGREES: It is now accepted practice in many academic jurisdictions, particularly in the United Kingdom, to classify MSc degrees. This is done to encourage excellence in the pursuit of the degree. Baze University Senate considered a proposal from the Postgraduate Board on the classification of future University MSc degrees into Distinction, and Merit, depending on the performance of the graduates as will be evident in their Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) and the quality of their MSc thesis. It was believed that this initiative will encourage seriousness and competition among students in the PG programmes.

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6.0 TUITION SCHOLARSHIPS: On the 17th January 2020, the Director of Corporate Services of the University, Khalifa U. Mohammed announced a tuition scholarship award to Ms. Rabi Bello Mohammed (BU/19C/PGS/4021). The award was graciously made by Senator Y.D. Baba-Ahmed (PhD), the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of the Governing Council of the University, to Ms. Rabi Mohammed to assist her in completing her MSc programme in International Relations & Diplomacy. Also, as part of the corporate social responsibility of the University, the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Council approved a fifty percent reduction in postgraduate fees to officers of the Economic & Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). In a letter dated 27th August 2019 to the Acting Chairman of the EFCC by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Tahir Mamman (OON, SAN), the tuition reduction was intended to “encourage officers to pursue capacity building to enhance job performance”.

7.0 STAFF TURNOVER AT PG SCHOOL: The pioneer Secretary of PG School, Ms. Ummul-Khair Abubakar made way for Mr. Usman Sani Dakyes. Ms. Abubakar had since resumed duty as Head, Exams and Records Unit of the Registry.

The PG School wishes her the best of luck in her new sensitive assignment. We have no doubt that she will excel in the new post given her dedication to duty. We also take this opportunity to welcome Mr. Dakyes to the PG School.

8.0 CONCLUSION: It is noteworthy that despite the COVID-19 epidemic, the PG programmes at the University have continued to attract many students. From a modest number of 41 admissions at inception to the current 205 admissions, the programmes have grown remarkably, thanks to the Pro-Chancellor, University Management, Deans, Heads of Departments and PG Lecturers who have supported the programmes. The programmes have attracted graduates from diverse universities in the country and more especially Baze University graduates. In this connection, we welcome the University’s best graduating student of 2019 convocation, Mr. Anthony Ekpo Okon, who has returned to register for his MSc in Economics. It is expected that the new PhD programme in Management will challenge other qualified departments to follow suit with their doctoral programmes. That way, the PG School will continue to grow from strength to strength.

* Professor Peter UMOH (PhD, Fcib) is the DVC Academic and Dean, Post Graduate School.

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BAZE UNIVERSITY: A COVID-19 SUCCESS STORY Mani Ibrahim AHMAD * On 22nd January 2020, the Board of Trustees (BOT) of Baze University, at its 31st meeting approved the appointment of a new Registrar. Mani Ibrahim Ahmad Ph.D, became the third Registrar in succession since the establishment of the University and took over from Maj. Gen. Inuwa Idris (Rtd) whose tenure just ended.

Upon assumption of duty, the new Registrar focused on repositioning the office to ensure synergy among principal officers and other members of the larger University Community. To this end, the following actions were taken: • Establishment of the Office of the Academic Secretary and deployment of an appropriate officer to handle issues on students’ academic records (exam results, transcripts, statement of result, certificates, NYSC mobilization, etc); • Establishment of a Secretariat for BOT, Council and Senate to service all meetings, keep records, prepare decision extracts and follow up on implementation, etc. Two upper middle level cadre officers were assigned to this office.

• Redeployment of many staff to enable them get well-grounded in the operations of multiple units and allow them gain robust experiences in various administrative units and sections of the university.

One of the core values of Baze University is the respect for the sanctity of the academic calendar and over the years, the system has been insulated from needless disruptions. COVID-19 pandemic, however, created a new challenge; one that was never envisaged by even the most stable institutions. The University was deep into the first semester of 2020 when the Federal Government through the National Universities Commission directed a complete shutdown and lockdown of the entire education sector, including all institutions of higher learning. This disruption threw the entire sector into panic mode, characterized by confusion, anxiety of a virus with no end in sight, and the consequential economic and social break down.

At Baze University, after the initial shock, the transition from brick and mortar to the online mode of teaching with its attendant complexities was swift, seamless, and well-coordinated. The academic calendar continued uninterrupted and students did not miss out on anything. This was largely due to the enabling environment provided by Management and the synergy with the IT Department, all facilitated by the Registry.

The collective efforts of all the organs of the University culminated into the birth of the Baze University Digital Transformation platform that enabled online teaching, administration of Continuous Assessments, writing and processing of examinations, release of results and successfully ending the semester as planned. The efforts of all and sundry in commendable.

Today the university has institutionalized the Digital Transformation system, now supported by regular training and capacity building, systems audit and evaluation of facilities and human resource. The University also has a financial partnership with Telecom companies via mobile telephony for the purchase of data buckets, distributed free of charge to staff and students. These efforts have clearly made the University stand out amongst its peers as one of the few in the global south that has overcome the disruptive effects of COVID-19 on the higher education subsector.

As we plan to re-open the University in January 2021, Management in compliance with NCDC guidelines has put in place all that is required for the safety and protection of staff and students. It is evident that the new normal occasioned by COVID-19 will remain with us for an awfully long time. At Baze University, we are upstanding and ready to face the challenge of whatever lies ahead having successfully completed two (2) semesters, three (3) examination sessions and even graduated two (2) sets of students. In spite of the effects of COVID-19; undoubtedly, we have learned to live with the virus. * Dr. Mani Ibrahim AHMAD, FNIM, FCAI, is the Registrar of the University.

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CIVIL SECURITY: TRAINING AND AWARENESS IS THE KEY Daniel EDIEH* Security in a general term that refers to freedom from threats, fears, and dangers. Security remains an issue of concern worldwide and any country, organization, or individual that ignores the matter of security, does so at their own detriment. The level of insecurity that has pervaded all societies in most countries of the world, Nigeria inclusive, has brought security education to the fore. There are different types of security: food security, biosecurity, cyber security, homeland security, civil security, etc.

In the domestic space, homeland security secures nations, sovereign entities, and their environment from hazards, internal or external natural or manmade. In organizations, Civil Security includes mechanisms and strategies put in place to protect the organization, its people, infrastructure, etc from danger. Today, civil security controls fall under three primary areas: management security, operational security, and physical security controls. The new concept of civil security is based on training, awareness, and general education.

And players lay emphasis on the axiom that, security is everybody’s business so if you “see something, say something” Security operatives are charged with the responsibility of safeguarding lives and property but communities are encouraged to be a part of the security framework by reporting unknown or strange faces or untoward behaviours. Security as a profession has the goals of protecting, preventing, deterring, and maintaining peace and tranquility world over. The profession is founded on discipline and regimentation. The difference between Baze Security Personnel and conventional security officers is the bearing of arms and ammunition. Baze Security Personnel do not bear arms, they guard, guide and guarantee safety on campus.

It is on this backdrop that the Baze University Security Department continuously organizes training and re-training exercises for security personnel and operatives to enhance job performance. In order to keep abreast of current issues that will enhance effective security and monitoring, all security personnel were recently trained by resource persons and instructors from the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Police. The retraining exercise covered many areas, including: General Duties and Responsibilities, Regimentation and Professionalism, You and The Law, Patrolling, Writing Notes and Reports, Bomb Threats, Access Controls and Alarm Systems, Traffic Control, Fire Alarm System and Reaction, First Aid, Human Relation among others.

These topics covered both theory and practical. More than one hundred and twenty security operatives attended the staggered one-month long training.

The Baze Security operatives also participated in technical and discussions sessions on security etiquette, physical strength, public relations, first aid and fire drills, etc. Thereafter, they committed to the following: a. partnership with every member of the Baze family, “one vision, one destiny” b. good human relations - a conducive and congenial environment without fear of molestation allows all players to do their work. c. clear rules of engagement - be polite, calm, friendly but firm with the public. d. high sense of justice and empathy in dealing with all. e. an Oath of Office.

In order to continuously improve security service delivery and utilize the benefits of these rigorous trainings, I implore all members of the Baze community on the following: • always provide vital information about your environment; we are all partners in progress.

• individual efforts should complement each other • maintain peace and tranquility at all times; carry out your duties without hindrance.

• be security conscious at all times.

• cooperate with Security Operatives

*Col. Daniel EDIEH (rtd). is the Chief Security Officer of the University.

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COUNSELLING IN THE COVID 19 ERA - ‘THE NEW NORMAL’.

Seember TARKA* Not many saw CORONAVIRUS (Covid-19) Pandemic coming in our world and taking the front row.

Covid-19 has surely changed our lives. The operational activities of the entire world shifted and is yet to adjust to the new ways of going about our lives; imagine the advent of face masks, social distancing, elbow shake, etc - our ‘new normal’. Is this way of living here to stay and for how long?

The counselling community that has hitherto encouraged social inclusivity is now compelled to seek novel ways in human stress management. There are several benefits of ‘face to face’ Counselling: • It pays due diligence to verbal and non-verbal cues to ascertain correct interpretation of the client’s state of disposition before prescribing appropriate therapy.

• It allows for physical presence that gives clients, the stability and confidence to enhances their motivation and energy as well as decrease levels of anxiety.

The unavailability of face to face counselling especially in the Covid 19 era has brought to fore the use of telephone, e-mail, and video online counselling; whereas these may be able to fill the gaps, there are still many limitations.

In recent times, Research has shown that ‘online therapy’ appears more effective than ‘face-to-face therapy’ because: the deployment of robust technology improves access to cognitive behaviour for various mental health challenges especially depression; removal of barriers that mental health sufferers encounter in receiving care and reduction in the stigma attached to seeking face to face appointment with a Counsellor or Therapists. Whether this recent research finding will be embraced or not remains an illusion, however, the Covid-19 Era needs the quickest intervention for those in need of mental health services and it should be available, accessible and affordable to forestall further mental and emotional instability.

In view of these development, the Student Support Unit also known as the Counselling Unit at Baze University has had to quickly shift to the solution-driven approach of online and telephone counselling. Telephone Numbers have been advertised through various online platforms such as the Google class, Whatsapp groups, news column on the University’s Website and emails. Despite this unusual approach during this period of LOCKDOWN, only few staff and students requested intervention for guidance and counselling via these platforms.

The world has definitely changed with this pandemic and as we grapple for the solutions of a lasting cure and hopefully eradication; Counsellors must continue to position securely for new ways and methods to reach those that matter most; clients that require care and intervention to overcome various challenges. Nothing stays forever; Covid-19 will become history someday to humanity. Students and staff will eventually resume, live, and work side by side but the constant need to find a wholesome environment that promote stability (mentally, emotionally, and physically) will always be the Counsellors/Therapists pre-occupation.

Before then, as we navigate this Covid-19 Era, let us do our part and stay safe by obeying the general Rules of Hygiene. God preserve us all. SSU...touching lives!

*Mrs. V. Seember TARKA is the University Counsellor and Head of the Students Support Unit.

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BAZE FOCUS INTERVIEW WITH THE BEST OF THE ACES Anthony Ekpo OKON BU/16C/BS/2077 2019 First Class Economics & Best Graduating Student 2019 VALEDICTORIAN

If you had to choose another field of study, what would you have done instead?

Apart from Economics, I would choose Finance since I also hope to be a Financial Expert.

What was your favourite course at Baze?

I did not exactly have a favourite course, however, I was intrigued by courses that were mathematically inclined.

Which lecturer motivated you the most?

The Department of Economics as a whole were really supportive and always willing to assist whenever their intervention was needed. However, Dr John Chizea was more of a mentor to me.

What impact do you hope to make in the society with this Degree?

In the coming years, I hope to contribute my quota in tackling the economic challenges faced in Nigeria (unemployment, poverty) by advocating constructive policy making, etc.

Do you have any plans for further studies?

Definitely, I hope to explore the field of Economics to the Please introduce yourself. highest levels possible, this will enable me to obtain highMy name is Anthony Ekpo Okon, I was born in Lagos er Academic Degrees and professional qualifications. but I am from Cross River State. I obtained my First School Leaving Certificate from Estate Nursery and Prima- How is life after school? ry School, Calabar, and proceeded to St. Patrick’s College, The experience has been amazing so far.

Calabar, where I obtained my High School Certificate. I also attended ACCESS Higher College, Calabar, where I What are your experiences in the labour market? obtained a Cambridge Advanced Level (A Level) Certificate Well, I want to further my education before getting into and the Northern Consortium of United Kingdom (NCUK) the labour market. However, I got some job offers alInternational Foundation Year Program Certificate all in ready, so I can say it looks favourable.

2014. In 2015, I was admitted for a Bachelor of Science in Economics at Central University, Ghana and completed my Is there anything you wished you had done differFirst Year but transferred to Baze University Abuja in ently while in school?

2016. In 2019, I bagged a Bachelor of Science Degree in No, I was able to strike a balance in everything I did in Economics. My hobbies are watching movies, tutoring, school and I think my academic results attest to that; problem-solving and shopping. things turned out perfectly well.

Which Department did you graduate from at Baze University?

I graduated from the Department of Economics in the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences.

How do you cope and keep going in difficult situations?

People! I had a small group of friends that I could always run to whenever I needed advice or guidance; they were always supportive and motivated me.

What is your Career aspiration?

I hope to be a renowned Development Economist or a top Which countries have you visited?

-rate Financial Analyst.

Well, I am not really into travelling, however I have visited Ethiopia, South Africa, and Ghana, in recent years. I hope What was your biggest motivation in the pursuit of to explore new places in the near future. your field of study?

From a young age, I had always wished to one day find What advice would you give to your juniors at Baze solutions to common problems faced by humanity; pov- University, who are hoping to face life soon? erty, poor living standards, unemployment, etc. This is the I encourage them to remain focused in achieving the goal reason for my passion to major in a field that aids the un- that got them enrolled in Baze University. Their perforderstanding and portends solutions to these problems. As mance in the University will greatly influence the rest of I grew up the field of Economics ignited my interest when their lives.

I discovered that it offers a reasonable explanation to the many social problems to which I was seeking solution.

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BAZE FOCUS INTERVIEW WITH THE BEST OF THE ACES Mohammed ABBA AJI BU/16C/LAW/2016 2019 OLDEST GRADUATING STUDENT Please introduce yourself.

I am Senator Mohammed Abba Aji, from Borno state. I attended many schools. I have a Bachelors and Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Florida International University, Miami Florida USA; a PhD in Government from the University of Manchester in England and now an LLB from Baze University, Abuja. I have five children. My hobbies are reading and playing Table tennis.

What motivated you to pursue another Degree and why L.L.B? I was a Senator at the National Assembly and having been involved in lawmaking, I fell in love with Law. At that time I was convinced that it is a very, very noble profession and I that I would study it, if I have the tme. I am now retired and do not like idleness, so I chose to study Law. What your favorite course while at Baze University?

Jurisprudence! It is the philosophy of law; it takes you to the origin of law. I find it the most interesting.

Were the experiences provided suitable for a “mature student” like you?

Very very conducive, the classes were air conditioned, the class sizes were not too big, everybody knew everybody, and you could call everyone by name. And there were quite a few mature students in every class.

Do you have any suggestions on how the experience provided could be made better?

Uhmm! I give credit to Baze University, they are much better than some Universities outside the country. I think there is only one thing lacking in Baze; that is, a Common Room. Presently you can only either be in Class or the Library. There should be Common Rooms where students can sit down, have coffee and discuss, you can’t discuss in the library. You find that students are forced to use the classrooms for that purpose and most times there is a class scheduled so the lecturer will come and kick you out. Although there are Restaurants and Eateries, nobody sells coffee on campus. I am a coffee man, so I find myself having to go to school every day with my coffee. It turned out I was not the only one crazy about the beverage because during breaktime many people will come to ask me “have you come with coffee” so that means there is need for it. I tried to convince the restaurants to incorporate coffee into their menu, I do not know if they have now.

What were your most memorable or difficult moments at Baze University?

At Baze University, was there any difficult moment? Nothing particularly stands out as being difficult. But every moment, all the classes, the teachers, the students, all my interactions with them were very pleasant. I did not have any bad experience. Uhmmm! There was a time I forgot my laptop in which had a lot of things at Block C Auditorium and I thought I would never get it back. Someone told me “no, there is a lost and found Desk at the Gate”. When I went there, I found it, I was extremely impressed.

Did you ever consider quitting the programme, while at Baze University? If so, Why? What motivated you to conclude your programme?

No, I never took one semester off. I will not say that I never missed class but these were very few.

Did you make any friends while at Baze University? Who were your closest supports?

In my class, I tried to change the term which you have used now, they were calling themselves “mature students” so I said to them, No, there is implication. You are telling others that they are not mature, and this is also their own class too and their own generation. Why not address us as what we are “older students". The older students, all of us got along very well, there is Florence, Mike, Bayo, Ezenuwa, this group I am mentioning started together, I came the following year and joined them. There was a lady from Gambia, Hadijattu, then there was Paul, who left to run for Governorship, which set him back, but he is back now. Paul and Ezenuwa, we left behind but the rest of us went on to finish Law school together.

How did you cope with school life? (e.g. making friends with your younger classmates, taking lessons from young lecturers).

I found my younger classmates to be different from the classmates during my time, this generation is completely different. I was telling people that in my years in Baze, I never saw two young men or women fighting; during our time it was a daily occurrence. I never saw anybody smoking outside the buildings except once, behind the Brims Restaurant near the Hostel and I told him, “I have never seen anybody smoking on this campus, you are the first”. He apologized and immediately put it off and he said he will never do it again. I found the younger students to be well behaved, well-motivated and very respectful of elders.

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BAZE FOCUS INTERVIEW WITH THE BEST OF THE ACES You appear to have acquired several degrees over the years, can you list them? What is the drive behind a Degree Bank?

Well, I just like reading I think you can never stop learning, there is always something to learn, I enjoy learning, I like attending classes, I like reading. Even now, that I finished school, many times I would wake up by 4am and go to my study and start reading, so it is something that I enjoy doing.

Were any of your parents responsible for this drive for academic qualifications? Did they have western education?

Well, my father did quite a bit of reading but not as much. Their time was a very different time, but he would read the Quran every day, every morning.

Which lecturer motivated you the most?

Uhmm! They are all good oo, all of them are very very good, but to tell you the truth, I find Remi Famodile to be number one. I also find Nyako fascinating, Alheri Nyako would teach any class by heart. He is very objective when it comes to Student Assessment, actually any Grade he gives you that is the Grade you deserve, he is a very objective man, no favouritism, no victimization, no punishment, nothing! And he will teach any class off the top of his head, I even told him he should pursue a PhD, I consider him a person that rightly, really deserves to be a Professor. Alheri Nyako is a very fine, bright, young man. There are exceptionally good teachers; Ernest Ojukwu SAN is very good, Sani Adam also very good, Sam Amadi, excellent! He is from Harvard, and Esu Asuko is also an excellent teacher and Dr. Jibril Zuhair (proceeds to mention almost all the lecturers). You have good teachers there oo, very very good teachers. Uhmm that Faculty is excellent, I believe Baze University is blessed with excellent faculty members in Law. Where do you currently work?

I am awaiting the law school results, the results were supposed to be published in February and be called to bar in March but COVID-19 came and now even the results have not been released. And also, this lockdown will not allow one to do anything. But my plan is to establish a law firm in Maiduguri. (NB: He has now been called to Bar) What impact do you hope to make in Nigeria with your Law Degree?

My plan is to establish a pro-bono Law firm in Maiduguri that will provide free legal services to all indigenes but I cannot do any of this until the results are out and we are called to bar, because you can’t practice law without being called to bar.

Do you have any further academic plans perhaps a Doctoral programme in Law? Maybe, actually I am considering an LLM, I have not decided where to do it due to COVID-19, but I prefer to diversify. Currently I am taking an online course with Harvard University on Justice. If I get a conducive atmosphere, I would nit mind doing an LLM. What advice would you offer to “mature students” that would like to continue their education, or to the young ones who are just starting their academic life?

My advice is, “it is never, never too late to learn, never!”, and the learning becomes a very pleasant experience when you’re doing it at a latter age because you’re not doing it for the Degree or a job, you’re just doing it out of interest, so that makes it more interesting. Nobody is pushing you. The younger ones, some of them are being pushed by parents, “you must study law!” But the older ones, you select what to study, you make the time for it. It is something that you enjoy otherwise you will not even start it.

To the younger ones I will say, they have to work doubly, they have to work harder than the older students because they’re trying to build a career for themselves and in their generation just because you have a pass does not guarantee you a job. During our time before you’ve passed out, jobs are lined up for you but now Companies will say they are looking for a First Class, so let them aim to make distinction cause their generation is a very competitive one and they’re also competing with technology. Technology is threatening many jobs including Law and Medicine, because almost everything is available online. This is their own generation, all generations come with its own challenges so whatever you are doing you have to keep in mind the relevance of technology, and IT will continue to define our lives and many things will change. This COVID-19 has proven that many people can work from home.

Would you recommend Baze University to other people?

I will definitely recommend Baze University because it is far ahead of many Universities. I have friends who have attended Government and other Universities and they tell me about how many of them are in a classroom and the quality of their facilities. In Baze we have air conditioners in all our classrooms, while in some other universities they don’t even have fans.

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BAZE FOCUS INTERVIEW WITH NATIONAL PRESIDENT LAWSAN (2020) 1.You are the National President LAWSAN, what are your responsibilities?

As the National President, I am the Chief Administrator, Spokesman and Representative of LAWSAN in all matters subject to the provisions of the LAWSAN Constitution. The welfare of all Law Students in Nigeria, their training, empowerment, and mobilization for the defense of the rule of law is my priority.

2.How many members are in the LAWSAN EXCO? My EXCO consists of 10 members including myself.

3.What motivated you to contest for such a position?

My motivation is my vision to mobilize, groom, inspire and lead a take-over generation that will be leaders of the Justice System and Government of Nigeria for the attainment of a better Nation.

4.How did you achieve this feat?

I achieved this feat by determination, hard work, commitment to community service and inspiration from my lecturers at Baze University, Abuja.

5.What are your Future Goals for LAWSAN? My goals are to ensure the welfare of all Lawsanites in all Law faculties of Nigerian Universities, empowerment of law students through local and foreign internships, training and workshops, engagement of law students in community service, human, environmental rights and good governance advocacy as well as the defense of the Rule of Law. 6.What are your experiences so far in the Faculty of Law at Baze University?

From my experience, Baze University is equipped with one of the best Law Faculties in Nigeria. The school has imparted me with so much knowledge, training and experience that have shaped me to become first, a law abiding citizen, a functional member of the society and, a crusader for the observance of the rule of law in Nigeria.

7.What advise will you give to your fellow students?

I will advice my learning colleagues to open their minds to seek knowledge, as this is the only and right way to secure their future and make impact in the society just as other lawyers in the like of Mahatma Ghandi, Nelson Mandela, Lee Kuan Yew, Barack Obama, Gani Fawehinmi and Datti Baba Ahmed (the founder of Baze University, Abuja).

8. What are your personal goals for the future?

I want to build a career by going into full time Law Practice; with a specialty in Energy and Environmental Law.

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FACTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT NIGERIA 1. Frederick Rotimi Alade (FRA) Williams was one of the first two Nigerians to be made Queen’s Counsel in the United Kingdom and the first to become a Senior Advocate of Nigeria.

2.Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of Yams and Cassava.

3.Onitsha Market is the largest in West Africa, based on geographical size and volume of goods.

4.Lagos is the city with the highest population in Africa.

5.Hausa is the most widely spoken local Language in Nigeria.

6.There are two hanging lakes in the world, one of them is in Ado Awaye, Oyo State, Nigeria.

7.Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove in the outskirts of the city of Osogbo was inscribed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. Osun Osogbo Annual Festival celebrates the Yoruba Goddess of fertility.

8. Hercules Baboon Spider (Hysterocrates Hercules) one of the largest spiders in the world, and formerly considered extinct has now been discovered only in Nigeria.

9. Chappal Waddi Mountain in the Mambillla Plateau is the highest point in Nigeria at 2419 meters.

10. Church Missionary Society (CMS) Grammar School in Bariga Lagos, founded in 1859 is the oldest Secondary School in Nigeria.

11. There are more than 80 Ethnic groups in Taraba State and they speak more languages than at least 30 countries of the world.

12. The indigo bird which is unique to Jos is found nowhere else in the world.

13. The walls of Benin are the longest ancient works in the world, enclosing 500 communities at a distance of 6500 sq. kilometers.

14. Nigeria was the first African country to eradicate Ebola in 2015.

15. Cocoa House Ibadan built in 1965 from the proceeds of the sales of Cocoa Beans was also the tallest building in Africa, at that time.

16. Only Nigeria has a larger black population than Brazil in the world.

17. In the United States of America, Nigerians are the most educated immigrant community.

18. Amina was a Warrior Queen who ruled Zaria Emirate in Kaduna State, over 400 years ago in 1610 19. Jelani Aliyu is a talented Nigerian that designed the famous Chevrolet Volt, for General Motors, USA. *BAZE FOCUS QED © QED is an abbreviation of the Latin words Quod Erat Demonstradum, most often used as a notation to prove completion using a Mathematical Formula. When used in narratives; it implies that an Author’s overall argument has just been proven. We provide our esteemed Readers with topical issues on the QED Platform. Baze Focus QED Topic in this edition is INTELLIGENCE AND WISDOM. Enjoy!

Topic - Intelligence and Wisdom Intelligence is highly cognitive; it refers to gaining and implementing factual knowledge about something. Wisdom not only knows, but it understands. Smart people process information in a logical way, but wise persons apply emotional, and spiritual sensibilities to logic. There is a distinction between knowing and understanding. Experience creates wisdom and it is not about age or years on earth. Smartness is a result of learning while wisdom is a product of experience. It is easier for a wise person to gain knowledge than for a smart person to gain judgement. Intelligence without wisdom brings destruction.

1. Intelligence is power of will. Wisdom is power over will.

2. Intelligence leads to arguments. Wisdom leads to settlements.

3. Intelligence is heat, it burns; Wisdom is warmth, it comforts.

4. Intelligence is the pursuit of knowledge; it tires the seeker. Wisdom is the pursuit of truth; it inspires the seeker.

5. Intelligence is holding on. Wisdom is letting go.

6. Intelligence leads you. Wisdom guides you.

7. An intelligent man thinks he knows everything. A wise man knows that there is still something to learn.

8. An intelligent man always tries to prove his point. A wise man knows there really is no point.

9. An intelligent man freely gives unsolicited advice. A wise man keeps his counsel until all options are considered.

10. An intelligent man understands what is being said. A wise man understands what is left unsaid.

11. An intelligent man speaks when he has to say something. A wise man speaks when he has something to say.

12. An intelligent man sees everything as relative. A wise man sees everything as related.

13. An intelligent man tries to control the mass flow. A wise man navigates the mass flow.

14. An intelligent man preaches. A wise man reaches.

Do you remember King Solomon of the days of yore? A royal personality with vast empire. When given a rare opportunity by the Creator to make a request, he did not ask for more wealth or long life. He asked God for WISDOM. Why? Intelligence is good, but when it is mixed with a good measure of wisdom, you get better results!

QED!!!

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‘COVID-19’

PANDEMIC LOCKDOWNMANAGING THE HUGE BLOW TO THE SPORTS INDUSTRY 2020 will go down in history as the period CORONAVIRUS (Covid-19) pandemic sent shock waves around the world, leading to a public health emergency that has killed hundreds of thousands and plunged the global economy into a sharp downturn. Covid-19 Pandemic has affected all spheres of life and Sports is no exception. Social and physical distancing measures introduced to limit the spread of coronavirus has had a remarkably negative effect on all sporting activities.

Covid-19 suspended the sporting calendar, with professional leagues everywhere put on hold to limit the spread of the virus. Even the summer Olympic Games, typically the most watched sporting broadcasts in the world was been pushed forward by a year. The global value of sports industry estimated to be $471 Billion in 2018 (an increase of 45% since 2011) before corona virus nosedived. Every aspect of sports has been affected: athletes, facilities, procurement of sports equipment, hospitality industry, media; etc. The list is endless.

Covid-19 pandemic necessitated the closure of gyms, stadium, pools, dance and fitness studio, physiotherapy centers, parks and playgrounds. Many individuals are therefore not able to actively participate in their regular individual or group sporting or physical activities outside of their homes.

Under such conditions, many tend to be less physically active, have longer screen time, irregular sleep patterns as well as worse diets, resulting in weight gain and loss of physical fitness. Low income families are especially vulnerable to negative effect of stay at home rules as they tend to have sub-standard accommodation and more confined spaces making it difficult to engage in physical activities.

In Nigeria, the closure of educational institutions meant the absence of school sports. Team sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball handball, baseball, etc. are worse affected as people are not allowed to converge in any single arena. The Playground of many schools especially those located in the rural areas became overgrown with weeds. The usual sight of children arranging goalposts with stones on the street to play football has become a thing of the past. People are no longer gathering at the viewing centers to watch and discus football.

The inherent benefits of sports in keeping the body fit, making muscles stronger and keeping the bones, heart and lungs in good condition has been highly undermined during the pandemic period.

How do we now get rid of adipose muscles (fatty molecules) that predispose our bodies to blood clotting and heart attack? This and many more questions are begging for answers at this precarious and unprecedented period of Covid-19.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity physical activity per week. The benefits of such periodic exercise have proven immensely helpful especially in times of anxiety, crisis and fear.

Since lack of exercise may result in challenges to the immune system, thus aggravating existing diseases that have their roots in a sedentary lifestyle, the following measures are suggested: • Indoor exercise should be encouraged. For many, exercising at home without any equipment and limited space can still be possible. The example of stretching, doing housework, climbing stairs or dancing to music can suffice.

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•Individuals

and families that have resources to access Virtual Sport should maximize the opportunity, however, participation in radio and television sports exercises or engaging in other physical activities are crucial in bridging the divide for households living in precarious conditions.

•the general reactivation of sports. The Sports Family (producers, broadcasters, fans, business owners, players, etc) need to come up with new and innovative solutions to mitigate the negative effect of Covid-19 on the world of sports.

•Government should encourage healthcare service providers, educational institutions, civil societies, and cultural organization to organize physical and sporting activities at home. The use of online facilities to facilitate sports activities wherever available should be a key goal to maintaining social distancing.

•Government and civil societies organizations should reach out to communities with limited access to the internet and social media by cascading the sport education pyramid from the national to the local government level.

*Ibechi MATHEW is the Senior Coach of Baze University

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You Can Be An English Language Expert!

ENGLISH WORDS THAT DONT HAVE PLURAL FORM In English linguistics, mass or un-countable nouns have syntactic property; they cannot be counted using numbers. They do not have plural form and cannot be combined with an indefinite article (a or an) or be modified by a numeral. To use them you have to specify a unit of measurement.

For example: Furniture X - I have furnitures at home. ✓- I have pieces of furniture.

Sugar X- I have sugars at home. ✓- I have cubes of sugar.

Work X - I have works for you to do. ✓- I have some work for you.

1.Knowledge 2.Jewelry 3.Homework 4.Courage 5.Education OXYMORON An interesting word Oxymoron is a phrase that has two words with opposite meanings and its use make speaking very interesting. Here are some examples: 1) Clearly Misunderstood 2) Exact Estimate 3) Small Crowd 4) Act Naturally 5) Found Missing 6) Fully Empty 7) Pretty Ugly 8) Seriously Funny 9) Only Choice 10) Original Copies

6.Luck 7.Greed 8.Honesty 9.Love 10.News 11.Butter 12.Bread 13.Milk 14.Mud 15.Help 16.Advice 17.Water 18.Fun 19.Wisdom 20.Silence 21.Tea

11) Open Secret 12) Tragic Comedy 13) Foolish Wisdom 14) Liquid Gas 15) Happily Married - commonly used.

ARE YOU NOW AN EXPERT?

22.Sugar 23.Money 24.Chaos 25.Weather 26.Racism 27.Patriotism 28.Curiosity 29.Cowardice 30.Bravery 31.Scenery 32.Livestock DID YOU MAKE CORRECT SENTENCES WITH ALL THE WORDS? A Dictionary will be handy.

LIFE THE TOUGHEST SCHOOL You never know the class you are in, You never know the exam you will have next, and, You can’t cheat, no one has the same question paper!

Prepare your child for the Road of Life.

BE INSPIRED •If a man neglects education, he walks lame to the end of his life - Plato •Dream big dreams! If your Dream does not scare you, they are not big enough!!

- Ellen Johnson Sirleaf •An Investment in Knowledge pays the best interest. - Benjamin Franklin •Value has a Value, only if its Value is Valued.

- Bryan Dyson • When you are content to be simply yourself and don’t compare or compete, every body will respect you.

- Lao-Tzu •Do not trust your position, it fails when you leave the Office. - Arnold Schwarzenegger •Confidence and Arrogance do not go together. Know the difference. Arrogance makes you feel you are always right. Confidence is humble and quiet.

•Life is like a Coin, thrown up in the Air. You cannot really predict which side will turn up. No one stays on top forever. It is just a matter of time and season.

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TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY PARENTING EXPLORE MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCE SPHERES *Jamila SHU’ARA A parent is a person related to a child by descent, birth or adoption. A child is the result of conjugation from a man and a woman, but may be raised by one or both parents, or by grandparents. Parents nurture their child in line with societal norms. The pride of every parent is to watch children grow into healthy, happy, and exceptional adults. To achieve this, children need to be properly cared for, guided, loved, disciplined, taught, and encouraged through childhood to adulthood. Parenting is an incredibly challenging but intrinsically fulfilling experience especially when you watch your young children grow into responsible adults.

Behavioural Psychologists encourage parents and even teachers to expose children to different experiences as they nurture them through life. Successful adults use knowledge to their advantage in the world. Intelligence gives you knowledge and skills. Intelligence Quotient (IQ) is a test in the cognitive domain, used to determine the level of: comprehension, memorization, recall of information and even the ability to solve mathematical problems. IQ gauges how we commit information into memory to logically answer questions, make predictions, or just meander the corridors of life.

The twenty-first century is knowledge driven and parenting is challenged by massive volume of free information, easy access to the Internet, Information Technology Tools and Gadgets, and globalization. In guiding children’s lives and career paths, parents contend with a tempting option of “recreating an exact chip of the old block” by making their children adopt their profession. In many African families, the child’s opinion hardly matter in career choices as financial support in higher education is a patrilineal responsibility. So, in the choice of career paths, innate abilities that could have been positively explored for economic gains are jettisoned by overzealous parents who insist on their way or the highway.

Psychologists and Educationists encourage parents to explore innate multiple intelligence options to guide the child’s career paths. This is based on the premise that everyone is gifted with different types of innate intelligence which if allowed to develop at an early age, adds value to life’s experiences as one gets older. These innate attributes include the under-listed: •linguistic intelligence (word smart) – ability to learn or use spoken and written languages, high capacity to analyze information and create products such as speeches, books, and memos. Career choices for ‘word-smart children’ include: Lawyer, Author, Journalist, Compere or Events Host.

•mathematical intelligence (number/reasoning smart) capacity to analyze problems, carry out mathematical operations, and investigate issues scientifically, develop equations and proofs, make calculations, and solve abstract problems. Career choices for ‘number smart children’ include: Mathematician, Accountant, Statistician, and Computer Analyst.

•spatial intelligence (picture smart) ability to understand, recognize and manipulate large-scale and fine-grained spatial images and patterns of wide space used by navigators and pilots, or for more confined areas used by sculptors, surgeons, chess players, graphic artists, or architects. Career choices for ‘picture smart children’ include: Pilot, Sailor, Surgeon, Architect, Interior Decorator, Graphic Artist.

• bodily- kinesthetic intelligence (body smart) ability to manipulate the body or its parts to create products, perform skills, or solve problems.

Career choices for ‘body smart children’ include: Dancer, Athlete, Model, Physical Therapist.

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musical intelligence (music smart) – the ability to recognize and create musical pitch, rhythm, timbre, and tone and the dexterity in performance, composition, and appreciation of musical patterns. Suggested Career choices for ‘music smart children’ are singer, musician, DJ. interpersonal intelligence (people smart) – ability to recognize, understand and appreciate people’s moods, desires, motivations, and intentions to work effectively with them. Suggested Career choices for ‘people smart children’ include Salesperson, Public Relations Manager, Teacher, Psychologist. intrapersonal intelligence (self-smart) ability to recognize personal moods, desires, motivations, and intentions and isolate important life goals and how to achieve them. Suggested careers to excel with intrapersonal intelligence: Therapist, Psychologist, Counselor, Entrepreneur, Clergy. naturalist intelligence (nature smart) expertise in the recognition and classification of the numerous species (flora and fauna) and distinguish different types of plants, animals, and weather formations that are found in the natural world. Careers you could dominate with your naturalist intelligence Botanist, Biologist, Astronomer, Meteorologist and Geologist.

EVERY QUOTIENT MATTERS Parents who expose children to different cognitive and psycho-social experiences give them a better head start to succeed in whatever careers they eventually choose. To do this, children must be given opportunity to learn from play. Sports, extra curricula activities, excursion, family vacation, trips, all engage and expose the learning faculties of children. Educationists encourage parents to apply a robust cocktail of cognitive, emotional, social and adversity quotients to prepare the child for the arduous Road of Life. Cognitive Quotient: develops child’s intellectual capacities and smartness as listed above. Emotional Quotient: supports the child’s ability to maintain peace with others, manage the use of time, be responsible, honest, humble, genuine, considerate and respect social boundaries. Social Quotient: helps the child to build, nurture and maintain a network of friends. Adversity Quotient: strengthens child’s psyche and the ability to withstand the challenges in life without giving up, jumping ship, abandoning family, losing the mind, or committing suicide.

When children are exposed to rich experiences while growing up, they imbibe the confidence needed to understand the implication of life’s choices. They naturally become sober, humble and accept maturational roles and responsibilities that make them into successful adults.

TAKE AWAYS FOR THE ROAD OF LIFE From an early age, parents should teach: 1.Honesty - a person without candour is a loose cannon!

2.Respect and remorse - the best of character gives respect and admits when they are wrong.

3.Appreciation of genuine love - pure love is unconditional.

4.Industry and entrepreneurship - this is self empowerment 5.Dignity of labour - to each his own!

6.Service to others - life is sweeter when you make someone else happy.

HAPPY PARENTING!

*Dr. Jamila SHU’ARA, FNIM, FHEPAN, is the Director of Strategy & Special Duties 78

NUTRITIOUS Nigerian Delicacies - Killing me softly!

Moi-moi (Bean Pudding)

In Nigeria, Moi-moi is a special kind of steamed bean pudding.

It is a local delicacy made from paste of ground beans (blackeye peas) oil, pepper, onions, and seasonings. It may also contain mystery ingredients like fish, crayfish, liver, eggs, etc, all folded into the paste before steaming. It is a light, easy to digest and complete meal with essential protein, minerals, and vitamins. Nutritionists recommended moi-moi to recuperating patients, children, and the elderly.

Traditionally ‘leaf moi-moi’ is wrapped and steamed in jute leaves, which give a unique flavour to the cooked beans pudding. Jute leaves are sourced from the local markets and a cook requires some dexterity to successfully wrap the paste in those leaves. Today, modernity has obliterated the use of leaves to wrap moi-moi. They are now prepared in: easily sourced plastic containers or cellophane bags; that cook fast and need little skill to lock in the paste. Moi-moi in plastic wraps are now commonly served to consumers who are unaware of inherent dangers from ingesting chemicals released into foods by heated plastics.

Plastics are by-products of Hydrocarbons which are components of petroleum products like crude-oil; other derivatives are petrol, diesel, and engine oil, etc. When plastics are heated, they release chemicals into the wrapped food that is being cooked like moi-moi. Plastics contain a chemical known as Bisphenol A aka BPA. When heated, its chemical composition becomes unstable and releases chemicals. The chemicals are dangerous to humans and cancerous to the body if ingested over a period of time, they also affect the unborn child when ingested during pregnancy. There are so many different types of plastics which all have different uses, but the plastic used to wrap your moimoi is not BPA-free. In advanced countries, BPA-free plastics are widely used to prevent the danger of cooking with ordinary plastics, but it does not come cheap and products sold in them are a bit more costly.

So as a culinary precaution: • Do not buy moi-moi wrapped in plastic films.

• Do not heat any food in a plastic container because Plastics have the same components even when advertised as “microwave or dishwasher safe”; they emit dangerous chemicals when heated.

• Do not cause a plastic container to become hot by leaving it directly in the sun or near an oven.

• If you want to warm food kept in plastic containers in the freezer, first relocate it into a ceramic bowl, a pot, or a pan before warming it.

KPOMO

Kpomo or Kanda, is the local name for Cow Hyde, used in Nigerian cuisine. Hyde whether dry roasted or skinned wet is an extremely popular part of the Cow because of its affordability and its soft and juicy affinity when prepared as accompaniment to local soups and sauces. Kpomo may be eaten in pepper soup, or as peppered steak, kebabs or in tomato and pepper sauce. Kpomo consist of gelatin with no calorie so one can binge on a large quantity without feeling guilty.

Consumer demand for Kpomo is high and sale is lucrative so the market has various versions, many unfit for human consumption.

Kpomo is best dry roasted on firewood to burn off the hair and ensure preservation for a longer period of time. However, unscrupulous traders, use old tyres to burn the hairs to save the costs of firewood. The ingestion of residue chemicals from foods prepared through the combustion of tyres is a secondary source of smoke that is just as harmful as inhaling directly from a primary source like cigarettes.

Recently, due to high demand, Traders now import Hides from foreign countries and use cheap but harmful Formaldehyde for preservation.

Formaldehyde, known as Formalin, is an anti-decay chemical used to treat cadaver. Before this kind of Kpomo is sold in the markets, Traders soak it in Formalin to increase its size and thickness and make more profit. Healthwise, ingestion of Formalin can have a negative long-term effect on the liver and kidney.

If you love to eat kpomo, check the following: • Smell - if it stinks to high heavens, it has been soaked in formalin, do not buy.

• Size - if it is very thick, do not buy, even after cajoling that, it is from cow head.

• Colour - Avoid black or brown Kpomo because it was probably burnt with tyres or seller may have applied formalin. Buy white Kpomo, it is fresh, but extremely hard and takes a longer time to cook.

To be safe buy kpomo directly from the Abattoir or buy dry ‘Kpomo Kika’ and soak in water overnight or for some hours before use.

Cooking this may take a longer time but your health is better for it.

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HEALTHWISE - Health is Wealth!

WALKING IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH One of the most potent ways to stay healthy, and live longer is simple, just WALK. Walk for at least 30 minutes every day; it makes a lot of difference. Medical experts say that a daily dose of walking works magic on the health: it lowers blood pressure, reduces the risk of chronic diseases and makes the brain more active.

THE BENEFITS OF WALKING 1. It improves moods.

Research shows that regular walking actually modifies the nervous system to reduce depression, anger, anxiety, and hostile vibes especially when you breathe in the early dawn fresh air or the early morning sunlight.

2. It helps to burn calories and lose weight.

The art of regular walking improves the body's response to insulin, which helps to reduce belly fat and alter body composition. Walking increases metabolism by burning the extra calories the body does not need especially as the body progresses in age.

3. Reduces the risk of chronic disease.

The American Diabetes Association says walking lowers blood sugar levels and the risk of diabetes. Researchers found that regular walking lowered blood pressure by as much as 11 points and may reduce the risk of stroke by 20 to 40%.

4. Delays the onset of varicose veins.

The risk of developing unsightly varicose veins increases as the body ages. Walking strengthens and preserves the leg muscle, and this boost healthy blood flow in the secondary circulatory system.

5. Improves digestion.

Maintaining a regular walk routine aids digestion. Walking utilizes abdominal muscles to greatly improve bowel movements.

6. Routine walk regime makes other goals achievable.

Regularly walking allows you to establish a routine that will likely lead to healthy behaviours. This strengthens the mind to set goals and engage in tasks that achieve them.

7. Improves creativity.

Research shows that going for a walk when searching for a solution to a tricky problem, can spark creativity and walkers think more creatively than those who do not.

8. Alleviates joint pain Walking increases blood flow to tense areas and strengthens muscles surrounding the joints, constantly stepping on the sidewalks can help improve range of motion and mobility. Research shows that walking for at least 10 minutes a day forestall arthritis pain in older adults.

9. Boosts the immunity.

Walking can reduce the risk for disease and promote longevity. Research from Arthritis Research & Therapy suggests that highintensity interval walk can help improve immune function in older adults with rheumatoid arthritis (inflammatory disease of the joints).

10. Can improve longevity!

A study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society showed that adults between the ages of 70 and 90 who were physically active lived longer than those who didn't. The secret to a longer and healthier life involves maintaining a walk routine outside the house.

11. Makes you sleep better at night.

Regular walking helps you sleep better at night by reducing pain and stress, which may cause sleep disturbances. Active people sleep better at night than those with sedentary lifestyles.

TIPS ON WALKING •Never walk on a lonely road or when it is dark. Walk in the park, or in designated areas.

•When walking, face the traffic on your side of the road. Never back the traffic.

•Pep up your walks with a spouse, a friend or a dog; the interaction helps you feel connected and release happy emotions.

•Let your walking burn more calories; use a route that includes hills, increase speed and pace.

•Alternate between fast and brisk walking.

•Do one hour-long walk at least twice a week.

Jatropha Tanjorensis (Hospital Too Far) Jatropha Tanjorensis is also locally known as Hospital Too Far, and Chaya in English, or Iyana Ipaja (Yoruba), or Ugu Oyibo (Igbo) or Asipiti da nisa (Hausa). It is a dark green shrub that grows easily in the tropics including India, Bahamas and Africa. It is common in Nigeria, although many people are unaware of its existence or its high medicinal value. It grows in the wild but when planted in the garden, it needs little attention.

Health Advantages: 1.It is an ANTIOXIDANT - constant use prevents the onset of degenerative diseases; it knocks off free radicals, to reduce harm due to oxidative stress on essential body organs. Scientific studies show that increased dietary intake of antioxidants from fruits and vegetables may diminish the risk of most degenerative diseases.

2. It has HYPOGLYCEMIC properties makes it beneficial in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus.

3.It is an Anti- MALARIA. 4.It controls HYPERTENSION. 5.It has BLOOD BUILDING properties that treat ANEMIA in the old and young.

6.It supports SPERMATOGENESIS (formation of sperm cells within the testicles).

Uses: Source leaves from gardens that are free from human waste and pesticide.

Wash leaves to remove sand or other impurities before use.

As Tea Blend or pound fresh leaves with water, then sieve sap. Drink fresh as Tea, or spice to taste.

To maximize therapeutic properties, use immediately after blending and don’t store lor long periods.

In Soups (Vegetable or Egusi) – Prepare as in other greens. Avoid excessive heat, should be the last item to put in soup pot, remove thereafter from fire.

In Salads A good alternative to lettuce in salads.

*CAUTION

- Consult a Medical Doctor before taking any herbal or orthodox medication.

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LAUGH IT OFF - ITS THE BEST MEDICINE! Little boy sitting near a pregnant woman in the Hospital.

Boy: Why do you look so fat?

Pregnant woman: I have a baby inside me.

Boy: Oh. Really! Is it a good baby?

Pregnant woman: Yes, it is a very good baby.

Boy: Hmm. If the baby is good, why did you have to eat it up?

Class Debate Teacher: Now that we have all witnessed the impact of COVID-19 Lockdown, who is more important to the society, a Doctor or a Teacher?

Student:

Hmm! The Teacher is more important. This is why they told the Teachers to stay at home and be safe. Even if Doctors die, Teachers will teach more students and train new Doctors. With these few points of mine, I believe I have been able to convince and not confuse you that Teachers, I repeat Teachers are the best and most important persons in our society. Thank you.

JUST KEEP LAUGHING 1. Can February march? No, but April may!"

2. How do lawyers say goodbye? We'll meet in court!"

3. Dad, can you put my shoes on?" "No, they wouldn’t fit me."

4. Why are frogs always so happy? They eat whatever bugs them!

5. Can you allow a Nurse whose Husband sells Coffins attend to your pregnant wife in a hospital?

6. How many Leaves do Public Servants get? Ugu leaf, Ewedu leaf, Water leaf and Bitter leaf.

7. Three Medical Doctors are discussing the types of patients they prefer.

Doctor A: ''I prefer Librarians; all their organs are alphabetized.''

Doctor B: ''I prefer Mathematicians; their organs are clearly numbered.''

Doctor C: ''I prefer Lawyers, they pay their hospital bills on time because whether they win or lose in court, they collect their Fees.

Nigerian Proverbs in Pidgin English Nigerian Proverbs are on point with little effort! Render them in pidgin, and you add extra flavour!

1. A get am before no be property!

Translation: Don’t be boastful, never lay claims to past gone acquisitions.

2. Today na Newspaper, tomorrow na Suyapaper. Translation: No matter a situation, it will pass!

3. Same papa wit mama bon Akara and Moi moi. Na how dem tak waka for fire, mak dem difren.

Translation: how you start a race does not matter, it’s the end that is important.

4. Fowl wey dem carry for head no know say to waka na work.

Translation: You don’t know the value when someone else pays the bill.

5. Small pikin take agbada stat guy, wetin im wan wear wen e old?

Translation: Take life easy, you can’t walk before you crawl.

6. Na pesin wey nor get money say Garri get Vitamin pass Salad. Translation: Face your reality.

7. Pesin wey too tey for party, go follow dem wash plate.

Translation: Don’t overstay welcome!

8. Life dey show you pepper, you sef turn am to pepper soup.

Translation: Make something good out of a bad situation.

9. If God wan bless you, even your goat go born cow.

Translation: God’s blessings come in double folds.

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CAMPUS LIFE IN PICTURES

Name: Blessing Afekade Agbomhere, ACArb. ID Number: BU/17C/LAW/2857 Faculty: Law Email: Blessing2857@bazeuniversity.edu.ng Date of Birth: July 8th, 1979 Marital Status: Single Nationality: Nigerian State of Origin: Edo LGA: Etsako Central Hobbies: Reading, writing, listening to music, dancing and swimming.

BRIEF PROFILE: Blessing Afekade Agbomhere, a final year law student (500 level) of Baze University Abuja is a young statesman full of enthusiasm and faith in the workability of the Nigerian State. He was born in the municipality of Auchi in Edo State, to the family of Chief Moses Bob Hussein Imhovhiera Agbomhere from Fugar, Edo State. As a little boy, Blessing attended the Azama Primary School as well as Success Secondary School, both in Jattu Edo State and graduated as one of the best students. In recognition of his desire to search for knowledge, share developmental ideas, promote good governance and influence people to live a life of service to humanity, he proceeded to the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja where he studied and obtained a Diploma in Journalism, a Higher Diploma in Journalism (HD) and a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in Public Relations and Advertising.

Personal Goal - His crusade is for a society where the happiness and fulfillment of the next person will be the joy of everybody; his passion is to ensure that we all help each other to live in el dorado, here on planet earth.

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CAMPUS LIFE IN PICTURES

Adamu Abbas AHMAN PRESIDENT STUDENTS’ REPRESENTATIVE COUNICL (2019)

Gift ENWERE PRESIDENT LAW STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION (2019)

Rabi Bello MOHAMMED PRESIDENT STUDENTS’ REPRESENTATIVE COUNICL (2018)

Chimdi Deborah NELIAKU PRESIDENT LAW STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION (2018) 83

Best of BAZE UNIVERSITY PANORAMA: Editor’s Gallery High-end Equipment at the Faculty of Engineering

Baze University Panorama is a Weekly Online Pictorial Magazine that brings major activities of the University to members of the community. View, share or download any Back Edition, click https://issuu.com/bazeuniversity.

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BEST OF BAZE UNIVERSITY PANORAMA: Editor’s Gallery Baze University Panorama is a Weekly Online Pictorial Magazine that brings major activities of the University to members of the community. View, share or download any Back Edition, click https://issuu.com/bazeuniversity.

The Inaugural Baze University Townhall Meeting was called at the instance of the of Management to discuss issues on strengthening service delivery and achieving corporate goals. The atmosphere was very cordial and staff had opportunity to ask several questions on sustaining excellence in university education, capacity development and welfare matters.

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Best of BAZE UNIVERSITY PANORAMA: Editor’s Gallery Faculty of Engineering 2020 Open Day

The Dean and Heads of Departments in a picture session with invited Secondary School Students and other Guests .

Baze University Panorama is a Weekly Online Pictorial Magazine that brings major activities of the University to members of the community. View, share or download any Back Edition, click https://issuu.com/bazeuniversity.

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Join the Baze Alumni Network.

Stay Connected & Register Now! www.alumni.bazeuniversity.edu.ng WELCOME TO BAZE ALUMNI NETWORK Dear Alumni, your Baze story does not end with your graduation. As a graduate of Baze University, you have free access to this valuable, professional community of over 1,000 fellow Alumni, providing networking opportunities for you to connect with others and widen your experience. To make sure you can benefit from all the opportunities offered through the Alumni Network, upload your details at: www.alumni.bazeuniversity.edu.ng As a registered Alumnus on the Baze Alumni Network, you will be able to access a range of benefits and services including: •access to careers and employment service, professional career advice, access to online vacancies and enterprise support; •competitive discounts for postgraduate courses in the university; •regular updates about University activities and how to get involved; •access to a community of over 1,000 peers, and; •Invitations to Alumni and University events.

BAZE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI EXCO

UMAR DAYYABU (Class 2015) PRESIDENT Nabilah Mohammed- Secretary Zainab Attahiru- Treasurer Abdullahi Munir- Fin. Secretary

Congratulations again for all that you have achieved.

We look forward to staying in touch.

You will enjoy being a part of the Alumni Network.

STAY CONNECTED: +234(0)905 990 3718.

Email: alumni@bazeuniversity.edu.ng Website: www.alumni.bazeuniversity.edu.ng or search:

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POETRY CORNER THE RULE OF NATURE

THE SUM OF US Rainclouds gathered, whirlwinds about, And homewards were we laden with logs.

Day been won was earth’s blessings sought, Farther back of the rocky hills approached.

But the whirlwinds threatened the boughs, The bushes, a man & son, & their headloads To feed the hearth to appease demanding gods.

The man knew well his duty by his boy, and so, Kept close, eyes steady and watchful behind, The lad stepping up the pass across the hills.

But the whirlwinds kept the merry-go-round, then Kicked the lad’s chest, causing thus an unbalance As he went tripping backwards, to be held though In time by a strong ex-military hand behind.

“I’ve got you”, cried he, “I’ve got you”, he assured.

After the climb across, issued thus from lad’s lips: “Thank you, Sir, thank you. I am yours truly, Sir”.

To which was: “You are, son! And that’s the sum of us”. *Andrew Bula Center for Foundation & Interdisciplinary Studies

THE TEST OF TIME

Nothing in nature lives for itself.

Rivers do not drink their own water.

Trees do not eat their own fruits.

Sun does not shine for itself.

Moon never goes on honeymoon.

Flowers don’t give fragrance for themselves.

Living for others is a Rule of Nature.

No matter the situation you find yourself; still do good to others.

Give time, to time!

Time heals almost everything.

No matter the situation: good or bad; it changes with time.

Congruity with time, tests efficiency.

Give time, to time!

Time tests Love and proves it.

Time tests business and sustains it.

Time tests spirituality and reveals it.

Time tests friendship and shows it.

Give time, to time!

Time Authenticates.

Time Determines.

Time Reveals.

Time Tests.

Give time, to time and you will see everything around you in their true state.

Afterall, Life too, is a matter of Time.

Life is better when you are happy, but life is best when others are happy because you created their joy. Make an effort to touch people’s lives, it makes a whole difference.

CONDOLENCE It is with heavy hearts and in evergreen memory, that we announce the passage of:

S/N

1.

NAME Kassim Bello Mahmud (Male) Business Management

STATUS Student

May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

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Baze University: Learn to live!

Baze University Teaching Hospital Abuja (under construction)

Baze University Abuja - Location on Google Map.

Aerial view of Baze University Abuja.

Baze University Abuja Plot 686, Cadastral Zone C 00, Jabi Airport Road Bypass (Ring Road), Behind National Judicial Institute, ABUJA, FCT, Nigeria. www.bazeuniversity.edu.ng inquiries@bazeuniversity.edu.ng admissions@bazeuniversity.edu.ng outreach@bazeuniversity.edu.ng +2348133769658 +2348133769657 89 www.bazeuniversity.edu.ng