Top Places Every ATBU Student Should Know in Bauchi

Nmedia July 05, 2025

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), located in Bauchi State, is more than just an academic institution—it's a lifestyle hub. Whether you're a fresher, returning student, or postgraduate, knowing key places in and around ATBU can make your campus life smoother, more enjoyable, and even safer.

This article will walk you through some of the most essential, exciting, and strategic locations every ATBU student should be familiar with. From academic facilities to leisure spots and daily necessities, we’ve got you covered.

🎓 1. Yelwa and Gubi Campuses

ATBU operates primarily from two campuses:

Gubi Campus: The main campus, housing most faculties like Engineering, Agriculture, and Sciences. It’s spacious, green, and more isolated.
Yelwa Campus: Located within Bauchi town, this campus houses the School of Technology Education, Management Sciences, and some PG programs. It's more urban and surrounded by student activities.

Knowing your campus is the first step to adjusting quickly and getting involved in the right social and academic communities.

🏥 2. ATBU Medical Centre

Your health is your wealth. ATBU Medical Centre, located within the Gubi campus, offers basic healthcare services to students at subsidized rates. For more serious cases, students are often referred to:

ATBUTH: Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi town.
Specialist Hospital: Government-owned and also a referral point.

Students are advised to register with the Medical Centre upon resumption to enjoy full benefits.

🛒 3. Muda Lawal Market

If you need groceries, household items, affordable clothing, or even electronics, Muda Lawal Market in Bauchi town is your go-to place. This bustling market is one of the biggest in Northern Nigeria and offers almost everything at student-friendly prices.

Tip: Bargain wisely and keep your phone and wallet safe while shopping.

🍽️ 4. Top Eateries and Bukas Near ATBU

Food is a major part of student life. These are popular options:

Wunti Restaurant: Known for local dishes and snacks, it’s a favorite among students and staff.
Yelwa Bukas: Around the Yelwa campus, small food joints serve hot rice, spaghetti, beans, and soup dishes at low cost.
Mr. Bigg’s (Bauchi): A more upscale eatery for students celebrating birthdays or treating friends.

Many students also order through WhatsApp from vendors around the hostels, especially during exams.

📚 5. University Library and E-Learning Center

The ATBU Library is a central resource for academic materials, projects, and research. Both Gubi and Yelwa campuses have library branches, but the central one in Gubi is the largest.

Features include:

Internet access for online research
E-library services
Access to journals, theses, and course materials

Students are encouraged to register for a library card early in the semester.

🏦 6. Banks and ATMs

Managing your finances is part of being an adult. Thankfully, ATBU campuses have access to several banks and ATMs:

Gubi Campus: ATMs from UBA, First Bank, and Union Bank
Yelwa: GTBank, Access Bank, and FCMB branches

Tip: Use ATMs during daylight to avoid network errors or queues at peak hours.

🛠️ 7. Business Centers and Photocopy Shops

Assignments, project binding, printing, and photocopying are unavoidable in ATBU. Look out for:

Business Centres in Gubi: Near lecture halls and the ICT center
Yelwa Copy Shops: Close to the Library and Faculty buildings

Most centers also sell stationery and offer typing services for ₦50–₦100 per page.

🎉 8. Hangout and Relaxation Spots

It’s not always about books! Students need places to relax, celebrate, or socialize. These are popular:

Yelwa Park: Often used for student picnics, get-togethers, or department hangouts
Gubi Field: For sports and fitness activities
Sabon Kaura: A nearby town with lounges, cafés, and game centers

Don't forget to explore Bauchi’s tourist attractions like Yankari Game Reserve—perfect for departmental trips or holidays.

🚐 9. Transport Hubs and Tricycle Routes

Transportation within and outside campus is mostly via:

Tricycles (Keke Napep)
Campus shuttles
Commercial bikes (Okada – less common now)

Major parks include:

Wunti Motor Park: Long-distance buses
Sabon Kaura Junction: In-town movement

Always move in groups at night and keep valuables close during trips.

📱 10. ICT and Registration Portals

Knowing how and where to access ICT services can save you stress, especially during:

Course registration
School fees payment
Result checking

ATBU's ICT office and its online portals help students navigate most registration tasks. Also, be alert for fake links or impersonators during payment season.

✅ Conclusion

Knowing your environment is key to succeeding as a student. ATBU students who take the time to explore and use the resources around them usually find it easier to adapt, succeed, and enjoy their stay in Bauchi.

Whether you’re studying Engineering, Education, Sciences, or Management, these top places will enhance your campus experience in ways beyond the classroom.

So get out there—explore wisely, stay safe, and enjoy the ATBU journey!