The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, has charged graduating students of St Francis of Assisi College, Wusasa, Zaria, to become agents of moral and national transformation as Nigeria confronts declining values and emerging social fractures.
Archbishop Ndukuba, who is the Metropolitan and Visitor to the institution, gave the charge during the college’s 60th anniversary and 38th convocation ceremony in Wusasa, Zaria.
A total of 119 students graduated across theology and education disciplines, receiving degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
The Convocation Address was delivered by the Rt. Rev. Dr. Yusuf Ishaya Janfalan, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Ikara, setting the tone for the milestone celebration.
Highlighting the historic footprint of Wusasa, Archbishop Ndukuba noted that the college began as a modest Discipleship Training Centre before growing like a “mustard seed” into a major theological institution. He pointed out that key national figures associated with Wusasa—such as former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, General Theophilus Danjuma, and renowned educationist Professor Ishaya Audu—have left indelible marks on Nigerian governance, security, and education.
“You cannot talk of the North without thinking of those key players that have shaped, not only in the past but also into the future, the destiny and direction of this nation,” Ndukuba said.
Addressing current societal trends, the Primate noted that God is actively seeking ethical leaders to confront the erosion of values: “Bear the torch and light of Jesus and strive for what is right as you shape the future of this country.”
To support the institution’s academic expansion, Archbishop Ndukuba announced a ₦10 million donation to flag off the construction of a new modern library. Describing the gesture as an opportunity to give back to an area that helped form his own journey, he urged alumni and stakeholders to follow suit.
The event also featured special award presentations recognizing church and public figures who have contributed significantly to the college’s growth, including Rev. Joseph Hayyab, Chairman of the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
Earlier, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli—represented by the Chief of Wusasa, Engr. Isiyaku D. Yusufu—congratulated the college on reaching its diamond jubilee. Commending the institution’s balance of academic excellence and character formation, the Emir urged the new graduates to serve as builders, peacemakers, and ambassadors of tolerance across Nigeria.
Reviewing institutional progress, the Acting Rector, Ven. Dr. Timothy Bako, revealed that the college has secured approval from the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) to operate independently as St Francis College of Education, with NCE program accreditation as the immediate next phase. He added that the college continues to expand access to tertiary education via its Bachelor of Education affiliation with Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo.
Bako outlined recent infrastructural improvements—including a 50KVA transformer, a laboratory tailored for NCCE requirements, and solar power installations supported in part by 10 solar panels donated by House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
However, the Rector cited funding for program accreditation, hostel accommodation, staff welfare, library and laboratory equipment, and perimeter fencing amid regional security concerns as pressing hurdles. He appealed to dioceses with outstanding assessments totaling over ₦10 million to clear their arrears to sustain the institution’s momentum into its next decade.
