The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, has disclosed that only 8,000 candidates were offered admission out of more than 30,000 applications received for the 2025/2026 academic session, underscoring the intense competition for placement at the federal institution.
Speaking during the university’s 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony held at the Convocation Ground in Abuja, the Vice-Chancellor described the admission process as highly competitive and merit-driven, noting that capacity limitations prevented the institution from accommodating a larger number of qualified applicants.
“For the 2025/2026 Academic Session, over 30,000 candidates applied for admission into the University of Abuja. However, due to capacity constraints and our commitment to maintaining quality, we were able to admit only over 8,000 students across our faculties,” Professor Fawehinmi stated.
He told the newly admitted students that their admission was not accidental but earned through hard work and compliance with established requirements.
“Your admission from this highly competitive pool is both a privilege and an achievement. You were selected because you met the requirements and demonstrated the character, capacity and potential to excel,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor used the occasion to issue a firm warning against misconduct, making it clear that the university would not tolerate indiscipline in any form. He listed cultism, examination malpractice, sexual harassment, drug abuse and other anti-social behaviours as serious offences that would attract sanctions.
“Let it be clearly understood that the University has zero tolerance for acts of indiscipline, including cultism, examination misconduct, sexual harassment, drug abuse, unruly behaviour and other forms of antisocial conduct. Ignorance of the rules will not be accepted as an excuse,” he warned.
Emphasising the institution’s moral expectations, Professor Fawehinmi reminded students that academic success alone would not define their legacy.
“Remember that the certificate you will earn at the end of your programme is based on character and learning, with character taking precedence,” he stressed.
Beyond discipline and admissions statistics, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the university’s infrastructure and learning environment. According to him, management is expanding strategic partnerships and upgrading technological facilities to improve teaching, research and administrative efficiency.
“We are strengthening strategic partnerships, including collaboration with Galaxy Backbone, to enhance Information and Communication Technology infrastructure and improve internet access for teaching, learning and research,” he said.
He also acknowledged accommodation pressures arising from growing student enrolment but assured stakeholders that steps are being taken to expand facilities and improve security through collaborations and targeted investments.
Addressing parents and guardians present at the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor thanked them for entrusting their wards to the institution and pledged that the university would remain committed to providing a safe and academically stimulating environment.
“As your Academic Father, my commitment, and that of the entire University, is to support and guide you throughout this journey. Remain disciplined, focused, and committed to excellence,” he urged the new students.
