AATU Joins Global League of Universities at IAU International Conference in Kigali
In a remarkable stride toward global academic recognition and international collaboration, Abdulrasaq Abubakar Toyin University (AATU) has been formally inducted as a member of the International Association of Universities (IAU) during the 2025 IAU International Conference, held from October 20th to 24th at the University of Rwanda, Kigali.
The induction marks a major milestone in AATU’s steady rise as one of Nigeria’s most forward-looking private universities, committed to academic excellence, innovation, and global engagement. The university’s delegation to the prestigious event was led by Prof. Abdulrasheed Na’Allah, the Pro-Chancellor of AATU and a distinguished IAU Board Member, whose visionary leadership continues to place AATU on the global academic map.
Other distinguished members of the delegation included the Chancellor, Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof AbdulRauf Ambali the Secretary/Member of the Board of Trustees, and Alhaji Lukman Abdulrasaq, all of whom represented the university with dignity and pride.
The IAU International Conference, themed “Higher Education and Global Sustainability”, brought together over 300 institutions across continents to discuss innovation, inclusivity, and impact in tertiary education. AATU’s formal admission into this elite global network underscores its growing reputation as a center of learning with a global outlook.
Speaking at the event,the Pro Chancellor of AbdulRasaq Abubakar Toyin University Oke Ogba Ganmo, Prof. AbdulRasheed Na’Allah expressed delight at AATU’s induction, describing it as “a testament to the university’s commitment to quality education, international standards, and transformative leadership in higher learning.” He noted that AATU’s inclusion in the IAU family “reflects our dedication to fostering academic partnerships and contributing meaningfully to the global knowledge economy.”
In his acceptance remarks, the Proprietor of AATU, Alhaji (Dr.) Abdulrasaq Abubakar Toyin, expressed profound appreciation to the International Association of Universities for the honour and recognition accorded to the institution.
According to him, “This membership is not just an acknowledgment of AATU’s progress but a powerful affirmation of our vision—to build a university that meets international standards while remaining deeply rooted in African values and innovation.”
He continued, “From inception, our goal has been clear—to nurture a new generation of thinkers, innovators, and global leaders who will drive sustainable development across Africa. Our inclusion in the IAU network validates that mission and inspires us to deepen our commitment to research, technology, and community impact.”
Dr. Toyin further commended the efforts of the university’s management, staff, and students for their unwavering dedication to excellence. “This achievement belongs to every member of the AATU family,” he noted. “Together, we will continue to expand our global collaborations, strengthen academic standards, and project Nigeria positively on the international stage.”
He concluded with a vision statement: “AATU is born global—we are here to bridge knowledge, culture, and innovation for the advancement of humanity.”
Since its establishment, Abdulrasaq Abubakar Toyin University has positioned itself as a hub of innovation, research, and character development, redefining what quality education means in Africa. The university’s academic philosophy blends entrepreneurial education, digital literacy, and global exposure, empowering its students to become impactful leaders in an evolving world.
With its membership in the IAU, AATU now joins a global platform of universities that share knowledge, resources, and best practices in research, sustainability, and international development. This new status is expected to open doors for international collaborations, research partnerships, student and staff exchanges, and joint academic programs that will
