The Department of Educational Management, Faculty of Education, Federal University of Education, Zaria, has honoured a retiring academic, Dr. Mohammed Lawal Ibrahim, in recognition of his meritorious service to the department, the university, and the education sector.
Dr. Lawal was celebrated at a send-off ceremony organised by the department on Thursday, 25 June 2026, to acknowledge his years of dedicated service, commitment to academic excellence, and significant contributions to the growth and development of the Department of Educational Management.
The event attracted members of the university community, staff, students, friends, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the distinguished academic and his remarkable achievements throughout his career.
In his welcome address, the Head of Department, Dr. Muhammad Ali Gimi, described Dr. Lawal as a committed scholar, mentor, administrator, and colleague whose contributions had positively impacted the department and the Faculty of Education.
He stated that the ceremony was organised to appreciate the retiree’s years of hard work, dedication, and selfless service to the university, noting that his commitment to teaching, research, and mentorship had inspired many students and young academics within and beyond the department.
A citation on the retiree was presented by Dr. O. Adegbemile, who highlighted Dr. Lawal’s academic accomplishments, professional achievements, and exemplary character, while acknowledging his contributions to educational development and institutional advancement.
Goodwill messages were delivered by several dignitaries, including the Establishment Secretary, Malam Aliyu A. Galadima, and the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Dr. Grace Uyagu, who was represented by the Head of the Department of Curriculum Studies, Dr. Musa Hamza. The speakers commended Dr. Lawal’s dedication, professionalism, and contributions to the advancement of education.
In a farewell message, the President of the National Association of Educational Planning Students (NAEPS) praised Dr. Lawal for his mentorship, guidance, and commitment to students’ academic and personal development, describing him as a role model and a source of inspiration
Other speakers at the occasion included Prof. Ibrahim Tanimu, Prof. B. C. Duruh, and Prof. Peter Matemilola, among other colleagues and guests, who paid glowing tributes to the retiree and wished him a fulfilling retirement.
As part of the ceremony, gifts and souvenirs were presented by the department and the students’ association in appreciation of Dr. Lawal’s invaluable service to the department and the university.
Responding, Dr. Mohammed Lawal Ibrahim expressed profound gratitude to the department, colleagues, students, and guests for the honour bestowed on him. He thanked members of staff and the university community for their support throughout his years of service, reflected on the various responsibilities he held during his career, and pledged to continue contributing to educational development whenever the opportunity arose.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Associate Professor Maryam A. Garba, who appreciated all dignitaries, guests, staff, and students for attending the event and contributing to its success. She described the occasion as a befitting tribute to a distinguished academic and administrator whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
