By Abigael Dada
The Environmental Design Students’ Association, EDSA, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, hosted its annual Leadership Summit on August 8, 2026, under the theme “Beyond the Classroom: Preparing Today’s Youth for Tomorrow’s World.”
The summit brought together faculty lecturers, distinguished alumni, guest speakers, panelists, and students to discuss real-world realities, career readiness, and the core virtues required to thrive in the industry.
Opening the event, the Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Design, Dr. Yahaya A. Aliyu, commended the faculty for maintaining high standards. He noted that the faculty was rated the best in 2023 and has sustained that reputation.
Delivering the keynote address, Ukashatu Tanimu reminded students that academic learning is only the baseline. “You can be whatever you want with the knowledge you have. Start preparing yourself in the classroom,” Tanimu stated, emphasizing teamwork over isolated efforts. “You cannot achieve what you want to achieve by working alone.”
Addressing industry demands, guest speaker Arc. Huzaifa Isa Shuaibu pointed out that true leadership requires accountability. “Leadership is all about responsibility,” he said, urging students to build core soft skills alongside technical competence. “If you want to be a good leader, embrace integrity, compassion, empathy, reliability, and readiness to serve. Remember, your network is your net worth.”
TPL Timothy Stephen Bonoh, represented by Shehu Nura Mohammed, identified character as the ultimate differentiator in professional life. “Leadership goes beyond titles; your character is everything,” he noted, outlining integrity, ethical consistency, and moral courage as key pillars. “It is easy to stand in a crowd, but it takes courage to stand alone.”
Guest speaker Mr. Saidu Abdullahi Kagarko reminded participants of their immediate role in society. “You are not just the leaders of tomorrow, you are the leaders of today. Leadership is about decision-making, serving people, shaping minds, giving hope, and building communities.”
The Head of the Department of Architecture, Dr. Abdulgaffar Mudashiru Olaiya, urged students to prepare for life beyond academic grades. “Stepping out of the classroom is the reality. Grades alone are not enough; there is a lot more to do,” he said, citing competence, continuous learning, and a willingness to sacrifice as key determinants of post-graduation success.
During interviews at the venue, attendees shared key takeaways on career preparation, networking, and personal discipline.
“What I took away from today’s event is how important it is for us, as students and as individuals, to strive for better things, and to mingle and network with people who can help us build a better future for ourselves and those around us,” said Rahimat Siaka, a 200-Level Architecture student.
“My main takeaway is that diligence and consistency will take you wherever you need to go. It’s not all about grades. Your network, the people you know, and your commitment will get you there,” said Umar Maryam, also a 200-Level Architecture student.
In an exclusive interview, the EDSA President, Husseni Umar Kagarko, a 400-Level Architecture student, explained the rationale behind the summit’s focused theme.
“Initially, the topic was very broad. When we reached out to our guests, they advised us to narrow it down so that attendees would leave with inspiration, motivation, and knowledge that will impact their lives. In our faculty, we have theory, calculation, and practice. Most of us are good with theory, but we lack experience and do not understand the challenges and realities outside. The future is not something you wait for; it is something you prepare for.”
Reflecting on challenges in organizing the summit and producing the association’s magazine, Kagarko cited poor commitment among participants.
“One of the biggest challenges was lack of participation. We assign tasks, but people do not meet expectations. For the magazine alone, I did almost 90% of the work myself, spending 10 days sourcing content. If you are given a task, try to deliver.”
Looking ahead, the EDSA President outlined initiatives aimed at promoting unity and building student capacity across departments.
“Our next agenda includes inter-departmental debate competitions and impromptu speech contests to improve public speaking and encourage students to showcase their talents. I want to leave a legacy of someone who cared not just about social activities, but about impacting students.”
ADDENDUM: Additional Details from EDSA Leadership Summit 2026
The summit also featured the following activities:
Full Program Activities
The event began with the National and ABU Anthems, followed by a welcome address by EDSA President Husseni Umar Kagarko. Other activities included panel discussions, the official launch of the EDSA Magazine, award presentations, and a tour of the exhibition centre.
Panel Session
Panelists including Arc. Ahmed Musa Danbaba, Abubakar Adamu Barde, Saraki Abdulgaffar Illiyasu, Ahmad Abubakar Tijjani, and Muhammad Kabir Abubakar shared personal experiences on academics and professional practice.
EDSA Magazine Launch and Awards
The EDSA Magazine was officially launched and received pledges from faculty leadership, alumni, and supporters including Ukashatu Tanimu, Kabir M.A., Arc. Huzaifa Isa Shuaibu, and Alhaji Umar Abbas.
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| EDSA Launched Magazine Cover |
Awards for Leadership Excellence were presented to Prof. Abubakar Abdullahi, Alh. Umar Abbas, Arc. Huzaifa Isa Shuaibu, Ukashatu Tanimu, and Saidu Abdullahi Kagarko.
Financial Accountability
EDSA President Husseni Umar Kagarko stated that all funds and pledges from the magazine launch go directly into the official association account to ensure transparency.