Boko Haram Hindered Borno Universities’ Convocations for Over Five Years, Says Zulum

Governor Babagana Zulum, of Borno state has expressed his condemnation of the disruptive activities of Boko Haram that have hindered many tertiary institutions in the state from conducting Convocation Ceremonies over the past five years.

He emphasized the importance of Convocation ceremonies as a platform to officially recognize and reward best-performing students.

Governor Zulum made these remarks during a courtesy visit by the top management team of the Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB), led by its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kyari Mohammed. The Governor highlighted the significant impact of peace restoration in the state, noting that his administration is committed to supporting all tertiary institutions in holding their Convocation Ceremonies.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by Boko Haram in the past, Governor Zulum announced a donation of N50 million to facilitate the preparations for NAUB’s first convocation scheduled for October 28, 2023. He further directed the Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement to expedite the proposal for the construction of suitable staff quarters and student hostels to address accommodation issues.

Governor Zulum lauded the efforts of the former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (Rtd), and the federal government for establishing NAUB in 2018. He mentioned that his administration had actively supported various federal institutions, including the University of Maiduguri and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, through infrastructure development initiatives.

The Governor also expressed his intention to sponsor best-performing students from Borno’s different senatorial districts for academic studies at NAUB, underscoring his commitment to advancing education in the state.

Professor Kyari Mohammed, the Vice-Chancellor of NAUB, expressed his gratitude to Governor Zulum for his visionary leadership in revamping the education sector in the state. Since its establishment in 2018, NAUB has focused on utilizing scientific and technological knowledge to offer innovative solutions to the Nigerian Army, the military, and the nation as a whole. The university boasts five faculties and 32 fully accredited degree programs, demonstrating its commitment to quality education.

Governor Zulum’s support and commitment to the growth and development of NAUB reflect a broader effort to strengthen education and peace in Borno state.