Prince Abubakar Audu University in Anyigba played host to a powerful call for institutional transformation during its latest academic milestone.
Delivering the twenty fourth inaugural lecture at the university auditorium, accounting scholar Professor Sani Rufai Abdullahi declared that genuine progress requires stronger institutions and ethical leadership.
The lecture examined how societal laws and religious beliefs must combine to restore public trust and drive sustainable national development.
Professor Abdullahi explained that true answerability goes far deeper than simply following written rules and regulations.
In his words, “Societal accountability is sustained through laws, institutions, and social norms, while religious accountability places individuals under moral obligations before God.”
He stressed that major world religions view responsible leadership as a sacred obligation that inspires integrity even when no supervisor is watching.
However, the scholar warned that corruption, weak institutions, and declining moral values continue to sabotage governance across contemporary society.
In his words, “Addressing these challenges requires stronger institutions, transparent leadership, active citizen participation, and effective legal frameworks capable of restoring public confidence.”
To fix these systemic failures, the professor urged governments to adopt digital platforms like open data systems and online audit trails to block financial leakages.
He also advocated for full autonomy, robust funding, and stronger legal powers for anti corruption agencies and public audit bodies.
Furthermore, Professor Abdullahi recommended embedding civic responsibility and moral education into primary, secondary, and university curricula nationwide.
Vice Chancellor Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman praised the presentation, noting that it marked the seventh inaugural lecture delivered under his administration since February 2026.
The historic event concluded with university management presenting Professor Abdullahi with an inaugural lecture certificate, plaque, and medal before a capacity crowd of scholars, students, and dignitaries.
