Uche Uwaleke, Nigeria’s pioneering professor in capital market studies, has lauded Professor Muhammad Akaro Mainoma, the former vice chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), as an eminent scholar and mentor whose enduring contributions have significantly enriched Nigeria’s intellectual capital and human resource development.
Addressing a gathering in Abuja during a special colloquium commemorating Mainoma’s 60th birthday, Uwaleke, who also served as the inaugural director of NSUK’s Institute of Capital Market Studies, emphasized Mainoma’s stature as a leading figure in Nigerian accountancy academia, whose influence permeates both educational institutions and the corporate sector.
“Professor Mainoma has been instrumental in nurturing a generation of academics, including numerous professors and PhD holders across Nigeria. Several of his protégés have ascended to leadership roles, including vice chancellorships,” Uwaleke remarked.
He highlighted that Mainoma’s most significant legacy lies in the cadre of academic leaders and professionals he has cultivated, portraying him as “a visionary whose impact extends well beyond lecture halls, actively shaping Nigeria’s knowledge-driven economy.”
The event, attended by distinguished figures from academia, government, and policy circles, not only celebrated Mainoma’s scholarly achievements but also served as a forum to discuss Nigeria’s persistent challenges in fully leveraging its intellectual and human capital.
In his keynote address, Dr. Umar Bindir, former director-general of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), expressed concern over Nigeria’s ongoing struggle to translate research and education into tangible national progress.
“Our nation has launched numerous ambitious initiatives-from the Green Revolution to Vision 2010 and Vision 2020-but the critical question remains: why do fundamental issues persist unresolved?” Bindir questioned.
He pointed out that Nigeria still grapples with poverty eradication, sustainable employment creation, and the establishment of globally competitive institutions. Drawing parallels with countries like Malaysia and South Korea, he underscored how sustained investment in research and industrial policies can catalyze economic transformation.
Bindir further criticized the inadequate support for indigenous innovation, sharing his personal frustrations in commercializing agricultural technologies domestically compared to the smoother processes observed in several Asian nations. He called for enhanced synergy among universities, industries, and government agencies to overcome what he termed “the innovation gap” hindering Nigeria’s industrial advancement.
Senator Tanko Al-Makura, former governor of Nasarawa State, praised Mainoma as “a devoted patriot, mentor, and nation-builder whose influence transcends regional boundaries to impact Nigeria at large.”
Professor Sa’adatu Liman, the current vice chancellor of NSUK, noted that under Mainoma’s stewardship, the university expanded its postgraduate offerings from 50 to over 300 programs. “Professor Mainoma broadened academic horizons, improved infrastructure, and established enduring standards that continue to shape the university’s trajectory,” she affirmed.
The celebration also featured the launch of four publications honoring Mainoma: Mentoring Academics in Nigeria: Mentor’s Approach; Mainoma’s Leadership: Achievements in Nasarawa State University; his autobiography, My History; and Diamond Memories of a Secretary General.
In his response, Mainoma expressed heartfelt thanks to God, his family, colleagues, and mentees, sharing personal stories from his early years, including his entry into primary education. “I hope to be remembered as someone who dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge, service, and nurturing future generations,” he reflected.
Dr. Usman Gur Mohammed, chairman of the organizing committee, reminisced about Mainoma’s activism during his student days at Ahmadu Bello University’s Kongo Campus, where he championed campaigns for improved student welfare such as access to clean water. He described Mainoma as “a committed and forward-thinking Nigerian, constantly seeking ways to advance the country’s socioeconomic development.”
