World Bank Vice President visits Baze University, Commends Educational Standards, Assures Partnerships
The Regional Vice President for Western and Central Africa at the World Bank, Mr. Ousmane Diagana, on Monday paid a high-level visit to Baze University, Abuja, where he commended the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and assured of future partnerships in critical sectors.
Mr. Diagana, who is in Nigeria for official engagements, lauded Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed PhD, Chancellor and Founder of Baze University, for his bold vision and investments in education, describing the institution as a shining example of African excellence driven by Africans.
“I am happy to see a university of this standard built and led by Africans. This is really a thing of joy. We are proud of Baze University and the role institutions like this play in human and capital development,” Diagana said.
He emphasized the World Bank’s focus on people-centered approaches, youth empowerment, private sector development, and agricultural productivity across the region. Diagana also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to interact with students, noting that “every concept of development begins with learning.”
In his welcome address, Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed PhD FSAN, while expressing gratitude to the visiting delegation, highlighted the historical and ongoing impact of the World Bank in shaping global development, particularly in the Global South.
“After the Second World War, the world witnessed a transformation in global financial and development architecture. Institutions like the World Bank have been instrumental in trade liberalization, financial autonomy, and capital proliferation,” he noted.
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Senator Datti further called for closer collaboration between sovereign nations and the World Bank, especially in ensuring financial discipline and building strong national development frameworks. He emphasized that the visit by the World Bank leadership was a clear testament to the institution’s interest in not just supporting governments, but also engaging with educational institutions that are shaping the continent’s future.
He shared success stories of Baze University, including its academic track record where, in 2019, 30 out of 31 of its students returned with distinction in postgraduate studies in the UK. He also spoke of ongoing innovations, including the planned establishment of a flying school to offer training in aviation management, air traffic control, and hospitality.
“Baze University represents diversity, religious harmony, technological advancement, and academic integrity. Even during the COVID-19 lockdown, our academic calendar continued without disruption,” Senator Datti affirmed.
Also speaking, Vice Chancellor, Professor Jamila Shu’ara, praised the World Bank team for recognizing Baze University’s contributions to development conversations. She described Baze as a “university of tomorrow in today,” powered by innovation, diversity, and excellence.
“All our processes are technology-driven. From student admissions to staff management, we use smartboards in every classroom, and we’re fully accredited by nine professional bodies,” she said.
She added that the university currently has 6,985 students, has graduated over 3,400 alumni, employs 920 staff members, and maintains 150 trained security operatives on campus.
The event ended with an interactive session between the World Bank delegation, students, and faculty members, focusing on the Bank’s role in development, youth empowerment, and global policy reforms.
The World Bank delegation included the Country Director for Nigeria, Mr. Ndiamé Diop; Regional Practice Director, Dr. Abebe Adugna; Manager for External and Corporate Relations (Western and Central Africa), Ms. Naye Anna Bathily; Senior External Affairs Officer, Mr. Mansir Nasir; and External Affairs Officer, Ms. Maryam Laushi Dasilva.
This engagement, stakeholders say, is a testament to Baze University’s commitment to shaping future-ready graduates and contributing to global conversations on education, finance, and development.
