The Forum of Nigerian Polytechnics Alumni Associations (FONPAA) has expressed profound grief over the death of its President, Abba Adamu, who was reportedly killed by kidnappers along the Kaduna–Abuja Road several days ago. His passing has plunged the polytechnic alumni community nationwide into mourning, with members remembering him as a respected leader and a unifying figure.
Burial and Tributes
Adamu was laid to rest in Kano according to Islamic rites, surrounded by prayers and tributes from family members, associates, political allies, and the alumni community. He was widely recognized as a dedicated advocate for the advancement of polytechnic education and alumni development in Nigeria.
Leadership and Contributions
As the pioneer president of FONPAA, Adamu played a pivotal role in fostering unity and cooperation among polytechnic alumni associations across the country. He also served as the immediate past president of the Kaduna Polytechnic Alumni Association, where he was credited with strengthening institutional and alumni relations. A former lecturer at Kaduna Polytechnic, he contributed to the formation and development of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) and was involved in advocacy for improved welfare for polytechnic lecturers and technical education.
Adamu also served as Chairman of the Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic Damaturu, Yobe State, from 2013 to 2015, where he was noted for his contributions to academic growth and institutional stability.
Public Service and Political Career
In public service, he was Chairman of Guri Local Council of Jigawa State from 1997 to 2000 and later served as Commissioner in the Jigawa State Ministries of Education and Environment between 2000 and 2002. He also represented the Birniwa/Guri/Kirikasamma Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011, where he chaired the Integrity Group, which was credited with promoting stability in the legislature. Until his death, Adamu was an aspirant for the governorship of Jigawa State under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Condolences and Call for Action
FONPAA described his death as a monumental loss to his family, the polytechnic community, the political class in Jigawa State, and the nation at large, noting his legacy of humility, leadership, and service. The association condemned the rising cases of kidnapping and violent crime across the country, especially along major highways, and urged the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and bring perpetrators to justice. It extended condolences to his family, colleagues, political associates, and the wider polytechnic alumni community, praying for his soul’s rest and strength for those he left behind.
