University of Maiduguri

20/08/2026

GOVERNOR ZULUM HONOURS UMTH CHIEF MEDICAL DIRECTOR AT UNIMAID’S 84TH INAUGURAL LECTURE

The Executive Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has honored the Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Professor Ahmed Ahijo, with an Award of Recognition for his outstanding contributions to the health sector and his commitment to improving healthcare delivery in Borno State and beyond. The award was presented to Professor Ahijo during the 84th Inaugural Lecture of the University of Maiduguri, held on Wednesday, 19 August 2026. The lecture was titled "Interventional Radiology in Nigeria: The Journey So Far, My Aspiration and Visionary Concept." The recognition was in appreciation of Professor Ahijo’s hard work, professional achievements, mentorship, and immense contributions to the advancement of healthcare both within Nigeria and internationally.

The colorful academic event brought together academics, medical professionals from within and outside the country, government officials, students, and other members of the university community to celebrate scholarship, professional excellence, and the contribution of medical science to human development. In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri, Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele, highlighted the significance of inaugural lectures as an important tradition in the university system. He explained that inaugural lectures provide professors with a unique opportunity to share their knowledge, research experiences, and professional contributions with the university community and the wider society. Professor Mele encouraged other professors who are qualified to deliver their inaugural lectures to do so, assuring them that the university is ready to support them in every possible way. The Vice-Chancellor also commended Professor Ahmed Ahijo for his contributions to the health sector, particularly his mentorship of younger professionals and his efforts towards improving healthcare delivery, describing such contributions as important to the continuous growth of the university, the teaching hospital, and the wider society.

Delivering the 84th Inaugural Lecture, Professor Ahmed Ahijo spoke extensively on the development and importance of interventional radiology in Nigeria. He explained how modern radiological techniques have transformed medical practice by allowing doctors to diagnose and treat certain medical conditions with greater precision and, in many cases, without the need for conventional open surgery. According to him, interventional radiology uses medical imaging technologies to guide doctors to specific areas of the body during procedures, allowing specialists to identify the exact location requiring treatment and perform procedures with remarkable precision. Professor Ahijo emphasized that this approach can make some medical procedures less invasive, reduce the risks associated with major surgery, and potentially shorten patients’ recovery periods.

He highlighted that radiologists play a crucial role in modern healthcare. They are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases using medical imaging through technologies such as X-rays, ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and other advanced imaging techniques. Radiology is used in a wide range of medical procedures, including the treatment of blocked blood vessels, certain cancers, internal bleeding, drainage of abnormal fluid collections, and other critical conditions. The lecture drew attention to the need for continued investment in medical technology, research, training, and human capacity development in Nigeria. He noted that for a country seeking to improve access to quality healthcare, the development of specialized medical fields such as interventional radiology can contribute significantly to reducing the burden on patients and healthcare institutions. Professor Ahijo added that the advancement of the field also requires well-trained specialists, modern equipment, effective maintenance systems, and continuous professional development. As a result, the University of Maiduguri, through its academic and clinical institutions, has an important role to play in producing professionals who can contribute to this growing area of medicine.

Professor Ahmed Ahijo is a distinguished Nigerian medical practitioner, academic researcher, Consultant Radiologist, and healthcare administrator who hails from Rumirgo in Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State. His education began at Rumirgo Central Primary School from 1975 to 1981, before proceeding to Government Secondary School Uba from 1981 to 1984, and later Government Science Secondary School Waka Biyu from 1984 to 1986. He then proceeded to Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, where he attended the School of Basic Studies and completed his Advanced Level studies. He returned to Borno State and commenced his medical education at the College of Medical Sciences, University of Maiduguri, from 1987 to 1994, where he obtained his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree. He later embarked on postgraduate medical education and special training in radiology at the University of Maiduguri with additional training at the University College Hospital Ibadan from 1996 to 2002. Between 2007 and 2008, he undertook professional training at the Medical University of Vienna in Austria, and further at the Institute of Radiology at Washington University in the United States in 2009.

Before his current appointment, he served as the Head of the Department of Radiology at the University of Maiduguri. He assumed office as the 8th Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital on 3 September 2018. Since assuming office, he has continuously emphasized the hospital's core responsibilities of healthcare service delivery, training, and research. An award of merit was presented to Professor Ahmed Ahijo by Governor Zulum in recognition of a medical professional whose career has been deeply associated with service, mentorship, and the advancement of healthcare.

19/08/2026

UNIMAID CROWNS BORNO CHAMPION AS 19 STATES BATTLE FOR GLORY IN ‘SPORTS FOR PEACE’ 5-ASIDE TOURNAMENT

The University of Maiduguri recently concluded the highly anticipated second edition of the Vice-Chancellor’s Inter-State 5-Aside Football Competition for Students, with Borno State emerging as the undisputed champion following a thrilling display of talent, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Held under the inspiring theme "Sports for Peace," the recently concluded tournament brought together students from 19 states across Nigeria in a spirited sporting contest designed to promote unity, lifelong friendship, peaceful coexistence, and healthy competition on campus.

Speaking at the grand finale and closing ceremony, the Director of Sports, University of Maiduguri, Professor Zakariya Mohammed Nayawo, warmly welcomed participants, officials, and members of the university community. He described the competition as a major platform for discovering sporting talents and strengthening relationships among students from different parts of the country, noting that the impressive turnout demonstrated a growing passion for sports among the student body. Professor Nayawo disclosed that 19 out of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory participated in the tournament, including Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Benue, Borno, Kano, Jigawa, Yobe, Niger, Plateau, Oyo, Kwara, Osun, Gombe, Taraba, Kaduna, Bauchi, Nasarawa, Ogun, and Kogi.

The Director commended all participating teams for their determination and discipline, particularly praising those who accepted defeat with dignity and demonstrated the true spirit of sportsmanship. He expressed profound appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Muhammed Laminu Mele, for approving the competition within the academic calendar and providing the necessary funding for its flawless ex*****on. Seizing the moment, Professor Nayawo appealed to the University Management to sustain its investment in sports by renovating existing facilities, constructing new sporting infrastructure, and providing a modern football pavilion. He emphasized that improved facilities would encourage greater participation and create opportunities to nurture elite athletes.

He also lauded the Vice-Chancellor for recognizing and honoring UNIMAID students who won laurels at the 28th NUGA Games held at the University of Jos in November 2025. Looking ahead, Professor Nayawo urged talented students to maximize the University's sporting platforms as preparations intensify for the 29th NUGA Games, scheduled to hold at the University of Calabar in November 2026.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor at the grand finale, the Director of Academic Planning, Professor Haruna Bakari Rann, described the closing ceremony as a highly memorable occasion. He conveyed Professor Mele’s deep appreciation for the enthusiasm and discipline displayed throughout the tournament. The Vice-Chancellor noted that the competition went far beyond recreation; it served as a vital platform for social interaction. He highlighted that the participation of students from 19 different states perfectly reflects the diversity and inclusiveness of the University of Maiduguri, cementing the institution's status as a welcoming home for all Nigerians.

Emphasizing the "Sports for Peace" theme, Professor Mele stated that sports possess the unique power to break down barriers. He explained that on the football pitch, differences in ethnic, religious, geographical, and social backgrounds naturally give way to teamwork, discipline, respect, and a shared sense of purpose. He further stressed that university education extends beyond classroom walls and must equally promote physical fitness, mental well-being, character development, and leadership. Reaffirming Management's commitment to upgrading sporting infrastructure, the Vice-Chancellor shared his vision of continually developing the university into a dual center of academic and sporting excellence.

At the end of the fiercely contested tournament, Borno State emerged as the champion, lifting the coveted cup and receiving the gold medals. Yobe State fought hard to secure the second position and the silver medals, while Benue State finished in third place to take home the bronze medals. Congratulating the medalists, Professor Mele urged them to remain humble in victory, while encouraging the other teams to use the experience as a stepping stone to return stronger in future editions. He expressed optimism that subsequent tournaments would be even more inclusive and competitive.

After commending the sports officers, coaches, referees, team managers, and volunteers for their dedication, the Vice-Chancellor officially declared the 2nd Edition of the Inter-State 5-Aside Football Competition closed. He left the students with a final charge to take the core values learned on the pitch—teamwork, fair play, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence and apply them directly to their academic, professional, and personal lives.

19/08/2026

UNDP COUNTRY DIRECTOR VISITS UNIMAID'S VC TO REVIEW UNIPOD HUB AHEAD OF GRAND LAUNCH

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), Professor Muhammed Laminu Mele, has on Tuesday, 19th August, 2026 hosted the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Country Director, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, at his office in the Muhammadu Buhari Senate Building. The strategic visit focused on evaluating the remarkable progress of the UNIPOD Hub—a collaborative innovation project designed to drive skills development, technological advancement, and youth entrepreneurship.

During the high-level engagement, Ms. Attafuah commended Professor Mele and the University management for their steadfast commitment to the initiative since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). She noted that the partnership has recorded significant strides in digitalization and the knowledge economy, stressing that the UNIPOD Hub is perfectly positioned to drive development across Nigeria and Africa at a critical time when innovative, youth-led solutions are urgently needed.

As preparations for the facility's official launch gather momentum, the UNDP Country Director expressed deep appreciation to the University for providing the requisite space and support. She revealed that a leading Nigerian architect recently assessed the facility to optimize its design, ensuring the hub becomes an inspiring ecosystem that attracts further investments.

"When anybody enters, they must not just see the building; they must see potential and feel it," Ms. Attafuah remarked. She emphasized the importance of creating a space that serves as a lasting legacy for the University of Maiduguri, Borno State, the Vice-President, and all associated partners. To achieve this, she proposed expanding the available space within the facility to accommodate more computers and broaden the scope of its training programs ahead of the launch.

Beyond the physical hub, Ms. Attafuah called for a deeper implementation of the broader MoU through joint research, thought leadership, and commercialization. She disclosed that UNDP is actively engaging with relevant government stakeholders to develop a sustainable, commercially viable model for the hub, reinforcing that universities remain central to UNDP’s development agenda in Nigeria.

Highlighting the transformative power of the initiative, the Country Director stressed the need to strategically document and publicize the success stories of young innovators. She specifically cited the inspiring story of Deborah, a UNIPOD beneficiary whose disability-related challenge united students and faculty members from eight different departments to engineer a practical, innovative solution. Ms. Attafuah described this as a powerful demonstration of how the hub can harness multidisciplinary expertise to solve real-world problems facing individuals and communities.

In his response, Professor Muhammed Laminu Mele expressed his profound appreciation to the UNDP delegation for their unwavering support and partnership. He reaffirmed the University’s absolute commitment to providing all necessary backing to ensure the continuous growth, sustainability, and successful expansion of the center.

19/08/2026

UNIMAID HITS MAJOR WIN AS GOV. ZULUM APPROVES PHD SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 220 LECTURERS, CELEBRATES RETURN OF FOREIGN SCHOLARS

The University of Maiduguri has emerged as a primary beneficiary of the Borno State Government’s massive educational intervention, as Governor Babagana Umara Zulum officially approved postgraduate PhD scholarships for two hundred and twenty lecturers of the institution.

The monumental announcement was made during a grand homecoming reception organized for Borno State foreign scholarship beneficiaries at the Government House in Maiduguri. The high-profile event, tagged "Human Capital Development: A Homecoming of Borno State Foreign Scholarship Beneficiaries," celebrated the state's staggering ₦7.99 billion investment in global education and human capital development.

Recognizing the immense importance of the event to the University's capacity-building goals, the University of Maiduguri management attended the ceremony in full force. The high-powered delegation was led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele, accompanied by the Registrar, Ahmed Alhaji Lawan, and the University Bursar, Mal. Ibrahim Umar.

Fulfilling a promise he made during the University's last convocation ceremony, Governor Zulum directed the immediate opening of the scholarship portal for the 220 lecturers. He emphasized that building the academic capacity of university educators is non-negotiable. Beneficiaries of this massive intervention will be fully sponsored to pursue their doctoral degrees in top-tier universities both abroad and within Nigeria, ensuring that the institution remains fully equipped with world-class faculty to train the next generation.

The ceremony also celebrated the strategic return and ongoing training of indigenous scholars sent to top global destinations. Among the cohort are 130 scholars who successfully earned Master's degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics disciplines from premier institutions in India and Malaysia, supported by over ₦3.2 billion in funding. Additionally, 104 scholars were sent to the People’s Republic of China—comprising 53 studying Medicine and 51 pursuing specialized Engineering across six top universities—while 19 undergraduate medical students continue their clinical training at Suez University in Egypt. With another 95 scholars on track to graduate next year from various foreign institutions, many of these returning high-achievers are already being absorbed into the academic workforce of the University of Maiduguri to bolster its teaching and research output.

In a brilliant display of the global exposure they received, returning scholars thrilled the audience by delivering vote-of-thanks speeches in fluent foreign languages. A representative of the medical and engineering graduates from China expressed profound gratitude to the Governor in fluent Mandarin, while a medical scholar returning from Suez University delivered a moving appreciation speech in Egyptian Arabic.

The ceremony featured a special presentation by the National Union of Borno State Students, who honored Governor Zulum with an Award of Excellence for his unprecedented financial commitment to students' welfare locally and internationally. Responding to the accolades with his characteristic humility, Governor Zulum dedicated the successes to the people of the state, stating simply that he was only doing his constitutional duty as a leader entrusted with their future.

Alongside the University of Maiduguri delegation, the historic occasion was graced by a host of prominent leaders, including the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan, and the Vice-Chancellor of Borno State University, Professor Babagana Gutti. They were joined by Permanent Secretaries, Chairmen, and Chief Executives of various federal and state boards and parastatals.

16/08/2026

THROWBACK, GARRI & GOOD VIBES: UNIMAID SUG TAKES STUDENTS DOWN MEMORY LANE

The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) took students on a highly nostalgic journey on Sunday, 16 August 2026, as the ongoing Social Week entered its second day with a colourful "Old School and Garri Day."

Held under the catchy theme "Come Rep Your Old School Vibes,"the event beautifully blended nostalgia, culture, entertainment, and student camaraderie. It gave participants a unique opportunity to relive the bold fashion, iconic music, and vibrant lifestyle of past generations while savoring the beloved Nigerian staple, garri.

Students turned out in impressive old-school outfits, creating an electrifying atmosphere filled with throwback music, games, competitions, and other highly entertaining activities. The celebration also featured the traditional serving of garri and gbegiri, adding a distinctive and delicious Nigerian cultural flavour to the day's festivities.

The "Old School and Garri Day" provided students with a much-needed avenue to relax, connect with one another, and celebrate the richness of Nigerian pop culture while creating unforgettable memories during the week-long social extravaganza.

Ultimately, the event further demonstrated the SUG’s dedication to promoting unity, lifelong friendship, and positive social interaction among the student body, perfectly aligning with the Social Week's overarching theme of fun, unity, and academic excellence.

15/08/2026

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15/08/2026

UNITY IN DIVERSITY: UNIMAID ERUPTS IN COLOUR AS SUG FLAGS OFF 8-DAY SOCIAL WEEK WITH GRAND CULTURAL DAY

The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) came alive with vibrant colours, traditional rhythms, and captivating displays as students from diverse backgrounds gathered to celebrate the richness of their heritage during the institution's highly anticipated Cultural Day.

The grand celebration marks the official commencement of the University's 2025/2026 Social Week. According to the President of the Students’ Union Government (SUG), Aliyu Idris Dakaskus, the social week is slated to run for eight action-packed days, offering students a dynamic opportunity to unwind, network, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of campus life.

Serving as the flagship event of the week, the Cultural Day provided a powerful platform for students to proudly showcase their roots through breathtaking traditional attire, indigenous music, captivating dances, and various forms of authentic cultural expression.

Beyond the colourful displays and energetic performances, the event served as a profound celebration of unity and peaceful coexistence. By bringing together students from completely different ethnic and linguistic backgrounds, the showcase beautifully demonstrated that diversity is a formidable source of strength and the absolute foundation of a tightly knit university community.

The celebration also highlighted the crucial need to preserve cultural heritage in a rapidly globalizing world. By fostering an environment where students can learn from, appreciate, and share in each other's traditions, the University continues to champion mutual understanding, tolerance, and deep respect among its diverse populace.

Reflecting on the success of the kickoff, the SUG leadership expressed immense gratitude to the University Management for its unwavering support and commitment to creating an enabling environment for students to preserve their heritage. Special commendations were also extended to the SUG Ministry of Culture for the dedication, creativity, and tireless effort invested in making the launch unforgettable. The Union equally appreciated all the students, cultural associations, performers, and organizers who contributed to the resounding success of the event.

Video Credit: Yerwa FM

13/08/2026

13/08/2026

NCDMB BOOSTS UNIMAID RENEWABLE ENERGY TRAINING WITH NEW SOLAR POWER LABORATORY

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), through its Local Content Intervention Programme, has officially handed over a newly established Solar Power Laboratory to the University of Maiduguri. This milestone intervention is set to further strengthen practical training, teaching, and research in renewable energy within the institution.

The handover ceremony took place on Thursday, 13 August 2026, at the NCDMB Local Content Laboratory building located on the University of Maiduguri campus.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri, Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele, expressed profound appreciation to the NCDMB and all stakeholders who contributed to the successful delivery of the facility. Professor Mele noted that as a premier center for teaching and research, the University constantly requires modern infrastructure, practical facilities, and relevant equipment to provide its students with top-tier learning experiences.

He emphasized that the new laboratory will give students greater opportunities to acquire hands-on knowledge and develop critical technical skills in solar energy. He added that cutting-edge facilities of this nature naturally elevate teaching and research while deeply exposing students to the practical, real-world aspects of their disciplines.

The Vice-Chancellor further stressed that practical skills and hands-on experience will significantly benefit both the students and the University by producing graduates equipped with the highly sought-after competencies needed in today's rapidly evolving renewable energy sector.

Shedding light on the technical details of the project, the contractor, Chief Bethel Ayeju, explained that the facility was conceptualized under the NCDMB Local Content Intervention Programme to support skills development, teaching, and robust research in solar energy. He disclosed that the project was impressively completed within a 30-day timeline and is fully equipped to provide students with rigorous practical training in solar power generation, installation, and testing.

According to Chief Ayeju, the state-of-the-art laboratory features eight 300-watt solar panels, two lithium batteries with capacities of 5 kilowatts and 8 kilowatts, a manual control system, and specialized testing kits. He added that the facility also houses a 650-watt panel system strategically designed to grant students direct, practical exposure to solar power generation, installation, and maintenance.

Ultimately, the establishment of this Solar Power Laboratory is expected to significantly enhance technical skills development, teaching, and research in renewable energy at the University of Maiduguri, while perfectly aligning students with the demands of Nigeria’s rapidly growing clean energy sector.

12/08/2026

UNIMAID CELEBRATES RENOWNED PHILANTHROPIST, ALHAJI (DR.) MUHAMMADU INDIMI ON HIS 79TH BIRTHDAY

The University of Maiduguri has warmly felicitated with elder statesman, business mogul, and Chairman of Oriental Energy Resources, Alhaji (Dr.) Muhammadu Indimi, on the auspicious occasion of his 79th birthday.

Leading the University’s delegation on a special felicitation visit on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic Services, Professor Mohammed Ahmed Waziri, described Alhaji Indimi as a renowned philanthropist whose enduring legacies remain a profound source of pride to the institution and a monumental contribution to educational development.

Professor Waziri assured that the University will continuously celebrate and appreciate the celebrant’s philanthropic gestures, recalling several landmark interventions that have firmly cemented his legacy at the institution. He specifically highlighted the donation of the world-class, state-of-the-art Muhammadu Indimi Distance Learning Centre and the International Conference Centre, alongside his recent, highly generous contribution of ₦2 billion to the University of Maiduguri Endowment Fund.

Concluding his glowing tribute, Professor Waziri prayed for Almighty Allah to continue granting the elder statesman good health, a long life, and ever-increasing prosperity.

In his gracious response, Alhaji Indimi warmly welcomed the University delegation and expressed his deep appreciation for the thoughtful gesture. He reiterated his unwavering support for the University of Maiduguri, emphasizing that giving back to society is one of the greatest sources of joy in his life. The revered philanthropist further noted that the University will always hold a very special place in his heart.

The high point of the commemorative visit was the presentation of a customized birthday felicitation card and a beautifully designed roll-up banner to the celebrant, delivered on behalf of the entire University community.