Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has been conferred with an honorary Doctor of Science degree by the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) and simultaneously announced scholarships for 220 lecturers to pursue Ph.D. programs.
The announcement was made during UNIMAID’s 25th Combined Convocation ceremony, which also featured the relaunch of the university’s Endowment Fund. The initiative targets 200 indigenes and 20 non-indigenes of Borno State.
Governor Zulum said, “I wish to announce scholarships for 220 lecturers of the University of Maiduguri to pursue their doctorate degrees. Out of this number, 100 lecturers will study abroad, while 120 will study in universities within Nigeria. Twenty non-indigene lecturers will also have the opportunity to pursue their doctorates.”
Expressing gratitude for the honour, Zulum remarked, “I am, indeed, honoured to be among distinguished personalities, including His Royal Highness the Emir of Kazaure and Sir (Dr.) Emeka Offor. I have no doubt that all the recipients will endeavor to be good ambassadors of the University.”
The Governor praised UNIMAID’s contributions to national development, noting that the institution has educated hundreds of thousands who now occupy key roles in government and the private sector. He also endorsed the relaunch of the Endowment Fund, calling it crucial for enhancing the university’s research capabilities.
“The University is justified in re-launching their Endowment Fund to mobilise resources for research and development. In Borno State, partnership with the University has become a way of life,” he said, commending chief launcher Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi and urging alumni and well-meaning individuals to support the Fund.
The convocation was attended by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, Adamawa State Governor Hon. Ahmodu Umaru Fintiri, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, Yobe State Deputy Governor Alhaji Idi Barde Gubana, the Shehu of Borno Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi, Borno lawmakers, ministers, and other dignitaries.
Governor Zulum received the honour alongside the Emir of Kazaure, Alhaji Najib Hussaini Adamu, and philanthropist Sir Emeka Offor.
