ABU Celebrates Law Students’ Big Win at ECOWAS Moot Court Competition

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has celebrated a significant achievement by its law students who recently won the top prize at the first-ever ECOWAS Court of Justice Moot Court competition.

The competition, which was held at Zuma Rock Resort in Abuja, saw the students of ABU’s Faculty of Law walk away with a total of six million Naira in prize money — five million Naira for emerging overall winners and one million Naira for presenting the best-written argument (memorial).

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Adamu Ahmed, recently received the winning team in his office and praised them for making the university proud. He said the victory was proof that ABU remains one of the best universities in the country. He also thanked the leadership of the Faculty of Law, led by Professor Salim Bashir Magashi, for their role in mentoring and preparing the students.

“I am happy that our students have proven again that ABU is a centre of academic excellence,” the Vice-Chancellor said. He also assured the students and the Faculty of the university’s continuous support in future competitions.

During the visit, the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Professor Magashi, stated that the team was invited to the competition, and their hard work had paid off. He explained that apart from winning the top prize, the students also submitted the best memorial among all entries. He also revealed that the Faculty had received another invitation to participate in a similar competition in South Africa.

Also speaking, Dr Umar Sani Bebeji, who led the students to the competition, said the win did not happen by luck. He praised the Faculty for creating an environment where students can succeed.

Professor Sanusi Aliyu Rafindadi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Advancement, Research, and Innovation, stated that ABU has long been recognised for its strengths in agriculture, engineering, and law. He urged that such competitions be officially recognised in the university’s budget to support future participation. The university’s Registrar, Malam Rabiu Samaila, also congratulated the team and encouraged them to continue their good work.

Professor Sahalu B. Junaidu, Dean of Student Affairs, noted that this was the fourth major victory by ABU students this year. He expressed hope that with better structures and financial support, more students will excel in future competitions. The event ended with the presentation of plaques and a dummy cheque to the Vice-Chancellor, followed by group photographs.