Gombe Varsity Celebrates Ex-VC Prof. Umaru Pate with Book Launch on Leadership

Federal University Kashere (FUK), located in Gombe State, has introduced a new book that documents the leadership journey, academic achievements, and significant institutional reforms undertaken by its immediate past Vice- Chancellor, Professor Umaru Pate. The book, titled “Umaru Pate: An Icon of Visionary Leadership, Knowledge, Transformation and Impactful Change,” was officially presented in Abuja. The event attracted a diverse audience of academics, policymakers, and professionals from Nigeria’s education and media sectors.

The editor of the book and Pro-Chancellor of FUK, Professor Williams Olu- Aderounmu, stated that the publication aims to preserve the university’s historical record and showcase exemplary leadership within Nigeria's higher education landscape. He described Professor Pate as a transformative academic leader whose tenure successfully enhanced the university's governance structures and fostered institutional development.

Olu-Aderounmu elaborated that the book comprises 11 chapters, covering Pate's early life, academic career progression, leadership philosophy, public engagement initiatives, and the reform efforts that guided the university’s expansion. He emphasized that the book is more than just a collection of essays; it is a scholarly tribute that captures the essence of an exceptional academic, administrator, reformer, and national contributor.

“Today’s event goes beyond a simple ceremony. It is fundamentally an exercise in academic documentation, the preservation of institutional memory, and the elevation of exemplary leadership for scholarly examination,” Olu-Aderounmu remarked. He further noted that Professor Pate's administration saw significant improvements in university infrastructure, the strengthening of academic programs, a boosted research culture, and enhanced morale among staff.

Professor Abdullahi Ribadu, the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), also spoke at the event, suggesting that the book provides an opportunity to reflect on the core values that characterized Pate’s leadership and professional contributions. Ribadu highlighted that Professor Pate's influence extended beyond academia into media practice, public policy, and the ethics of journalism, particularly in advocating for responsible reporting during elections and in times of national security challenges.

He added that Pate's research in media and governance played a role in peacebuilding efforts by helping to mitigate misinformation and promote balanced reporting in sensitive national contexts. Ribadu also pointed out Pate's crucial role in enhancing mass communication education in Nigeria through consistent engagement with regulatory bodies, thereby assisting institutions in adapting to the dynamic media environment.

According to Ribadu, the book serves as a vital reference for academics, administrators, and aspiring leaders looking for practical examples of ethical and service-oriented leadership in higher education. Professor Pate, in his remarks, expressed deep gratitude to his colleagues, mentors, and collaborators, viewing the recognition as a shared acknowledgement of collective efforts toward advancing scholarship and national development.

Pate underscored the importance of leadership being founded on transparency, credibility, and societal service. He thanked the Federal Government for the opportunity to serve as vice-chancellor and urged the university community to build upon existing achievements and maintain the momentum of progress established during his leadership.