IJABA Academy Marks 10th Anniversary and 2025 Graduation Ceremony in Katsina

By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | KatsinaTimes, August 2, 2025

IJABA Academy in Katsina celebrated its 10th anniversary and held its 2025 graduation ceremony on Saturday, August 2, in a colourful event filled with reflections, achievements, and renewed commitment to delivering quality education.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor of Katsina State and founder of IJABA Academy, Alhaji Faruq Lawal Jobe, said the school was born out of a long-standing dream—not for financial gain but to contribute meaningfully to community development.

“If you are looking for profit, don’t invest in education. But if your goal is to help society, then education is the best investment,” Jobe stated.

He noted that many modern school founders are not educators, which inspired him to establish a school built on the pillars of discipline, excellence, and 21st-century skills.

The school’s Principal, Mr. Sunday Jacob, commended the graduating students, describing them as hardworking, innovative, and promising.

“Among you are writers, artisans, entrepreneurs, researchers, and tomorrow’s leaders. Make your mark in the world in ways that only you can,” he said.

He added that over the past decade, IJABA Academy has transformed the lives of many students, shaping their character, intellect, and practical skills.

The school’s Director, Maryam Faruq Lawal Jobe, who is also the daughter of the founder, recounted that the school began operations in 2015 with just 100 students. Today, the academy boasts 33 classrooms, a well-equipped library, modern science and computer laboratories, an Islamiyya section, and accreditation to conduct WAEC and NECO examinations.

“We also teach vocational skills such as tailoring, jewellery-making, and basic electrical work, empowering students to become self-reliant after school,” she said.

Maryam also praised her father for his leadership and compassion, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many schools struggled to pay staff salaries, yet IJABA stood firm.

The Deputy Governor’s wife, Hajiya Asma’u Faruq Lawal Jobe, expressed her joy over the school’s progress within a decade.

“Before I proceed, let me greet the Excellency of my home — the Deputy Governor of Katsina State,” she joked with laughter.

She thanked parents, teachers, and students for their cooperation and applauded the academy’s efforts in raising responsible future leaders.

“Your strength is limitless. We are immensely proud of you,” she told the graduates.

In his closing remarks, Alhaji Faruq Lawal Jobe revealed that the school started with only four teachers.

He recalled the rigorous recruitment process, stating that only the most qualified candidates were selected.

“I once told someone that I wanted to build a school better than many that had been around for over 20 years in Katsina. He was sceptical. But today, Alhamdulillah, we are seeing that dream come true,” he said.

He emphasized that the school integrates both Western and Islamic education to ensure moral and academic balance.

“What touched me most today was the moving speech delivered by an orphaned girl from the Northeast. That moment captured everything we envisioned for IJABA,” he added.

Jobe urged the students to continue identifying as proud Katsina indigenes, devoted Muslims, and responsible Nigerians committed to serving their faith and country.

Among the notable guests at the ceremony were the Chief Judge of Katsina State, Justice Musa Danladi Abubakar; the Commissioner for Higher, Technical and Vocational Education, Alhaji Isah Muhammad Musa; the Commissioner for Rural Development, Prof. Abdulhamid Ahmed; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Civil Service Reform, Alhaji Usman Isyaku. Others included Dr. Bashir Usman Ruwan Godiya and the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Katsina State Government House.

All guests commended the academy's progress and pledged continued support for educational development in the state.

The event concluded with prayers, the presentation of awards, and cultural displays from various student groups.

As IJABA Academy enters its next chapter, the resounding message remains clear: commitment, excellence, and selfless service will continue to guide its mission of building a brighter future for Katsina’s youth.