The African School of Economics (ASE) marked a historic milestone on Wednesday as it held its first-ever matriculation ceremony at its Nigerian campus in Gudu District, Abuja. The event formally welcomed the pioneer cohort of undergraduates, all of whom are beneficiaries of the Renewed Hope Initiative Scholarship, launched by the First Lady of Nigeria, Sen Oluremi Tinubu, in partnership with AUDA NEPAD on August 1, 2024.

The colorful ceremony drew dignitaries from across academia, government, development agencies, and civil society—further solidifying ASE’s reputation as a rising hub of intellectual excellence and leadership development in Africa. Dignitaries included the Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the Director-General of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, Dr. Soji Eniade, the Deputy Registrar of the AFRICAN AVIATION & AEROSPACE UNIVERSITY (AAAU), Mr Dennis Joseph, the Wife of the Board of Trustees Chairman, Mrs. Kate Maduagwu.

In his keynote address titled “Three Principles, Six Stories,” Professor Mahfouz Adedimeji, Vice Chancellor of ASE, charged the new students to embrace hard work, discipline, and focus as pillars for success.
“Success doesn’t happen in a day. It requires vision, drive, determination, dedication, and most importantly, discipline,” he stated.

Prof. Adedimeji also shared his bold vision for ASE Nigeria:
“In the next five years, ASE will be competing with the stars in the Nigerian university ecosystem and beyond. We have everything it takes to compete globally—with our diverse faculty and student body, and strong academic partnerships.”

Professor Michael Maduagwu, Chairman of the ASE Board of Trustees, delivered the keynote lecture titled “Education: Pathway to Success in Life.” He underscored the transformative power of education as a gateway to societal and individual progress:
“Education is the key. It prepares you for life and success.”

The event featured a goodwill message from the founder, Prof leonard wantchekon. He shared his vision for the African School of Economics noting that Nigeria plays a pivotal role in the success of ASE’s mission. He welcomed the students into the ASE community and wished them success in all endeavours.

The oath of matriculation was administered by the Vice Chancellor, officially inducting them into the ASE academic community.

The Abuja campus, licensed by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in April 2024, reflects ASE’s commitment to Pan-African academic expansion, innovation, and leadership development.

As the institution continues to grow, its inaugural matriculation serves not only as a celebration of academic beginnings but as a bold statement of intent—to build future-ready leaders who will drive transformation across the African continent.