UNIMAID at 50: Zulum awards scholarships, N/East govs, Indimi donate N3.8bn

Borno State governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has announced the award of scholarships to 200 lecturers of University of Maiduguri for further studies in various fields.

Zulum disclosed this during a ceremony to mark the 50th anniversary of the University, graced by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, in Maiduguri, on Saturday.

Also, a businessman and Philanthropist, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, and the North East Governors donated the sum of N2 billion and N1.8 billion for the University’s endowment fund.

At the event, over N4 billion was realized to help the university expand its funding source through partnerships with the private sector and individuals.

Announcing the scholarship, Zulum said: “I wish to announce the scholarship to 220 lecturers of University of Maiduguri to pursue their doctorate degree.

“Out of the number, 100 will have the opportunity to study abroad while 120 will study in universities within Nigeria.”

The governor commended the University’s profound impact on national development, noting that it has provided education for hundreds of thousands who now play significant roles in government and the private sector.

He also endorsed the relaunch of the Endowment Fund as a vital initiative to enhance the university’s research capabilities.

Zulum, who bagged an honorary Doctorate Degree alongside the Emir of Kazaure, Alhaji Najib Hussaini Adamu, and renowned philanthropist, Sir Emeka Offor, thanked the institution for the honor and promised to be a good ambassador.

Speaking, the Vice President said the improved investment in Nigeria’s education sector by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reflects the renewed vigour to properly situate the nation in the global knowledge economy.

He warned that Nigeria cannot compete globally if its universities remain underfunded, stressing that sustained investment in education is now a core pillar of national development and security under President Tinubu administration.

The Vice President reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s education sector through increased funding and comprehensive reforms.

“Today, there is a shared national understanding that education is the most reliable vehicle to development. It is the immune system of the nation.

“It fuels economic mobility, lifts families out of poverty, strengthens social cohesion, deepens democratic culture, and fortifies national security.

“It sustains every modern endeavour, from the construction of strong institutions to the building of a strong economy,” he said.

Also, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Mohammed Mele, said the anniversary event was a celebration of success, resilience and perseverance in the face of conflict, recalling the challenges faced by the institution due to the insurgency.

He sought improved collaboration with the private sector to complement government funding of the institution, in its bid to sustain strides recorded in various fields.

The event was also attended by other dignitaries, including Ambassador Babagana Kingibe; governor of Adamawa State, Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Deputy Governor of Yobe State, Alhaji Idi Barde Gubana, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai

Other are Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad; Businessman and Philantropist, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi; Businessman, Sir Emeka Offor; Pro Chancellor of the University and Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage; some members of the National Assembly from Borno State, among others.

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