Outgoing Vice Chancellor, University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), Professor Aliyu Shugaba
By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
The outgoing Vice Chancellor, University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), Professor Aliyu Shugaba, on Friday had a valedictory press briefing with journalists at the El Kanemi Hall of the university , where he highlighted his tenure’s achievements and appreciated the support and cooperation of staff and students during his five years tenure.
Prof. Shugaba said: “I came into office when the North-East Region was still under the negative impact of the Boko Haram Insurgency and subsequently, the COVID-19 Pandemic, I and my Management Team remained undaunted and focused on the single agenda of taking the university to higher levels of development. ”
“Despite the challenges faced by the University during my tenure, we not only kept it open and even recorded numerous, though modest, achievements in different sectors, including security, administration, infrastructural development, academic programmes and activities, partnerships, linkages and community relations, among others, which earned us many accolades from within and outside the university.
“During my five-year tenure, we completed some, and executed numerous other projects, some of which you have toured with us today. They are divided into two categories of a) Appropriation, TETFUND & IGR Projects.
“These projects included construction of new structures, equipment and facilities and face-lifting of many others. The major ones are: Construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation twenty (20) kilometers of roads and drainages through appropriation and needs interventions.
“Construction of Centre for Countering Violent Extremism; Construction, Furnishing & Equipping of Department of Biochemistry. Construction, of two blocks of hostel in the Medical College (On-going) rehabilitation of more than 75 houses (staff quarters).
“Rehabilitation of academic facilities/hostels; construction of news room & studios and provision of digital TV/radio broadcasting equipment for television & radio studios of the UNIMAID Radio (On-going), construction of Department of Nutrition & Dietetics (On-going).
“”Drilled & reticulated 12 no. mini tube-wells to address water shortages, and fortification of security apparatus around the campus by installing various security surveillance equipment and procurement of patrol vehicles.
“Given the groundswell of positive public opinion and moral support from wisdom, and perseverance. within and outside the university’s community, we led the university with great courage.
“b) Projects donated to the university. Many individuals, governmental and non-governmental organisations have donated projects that have enhanced the capacity of the University to deliver on its mandate of teaching, research and community service. Some of them are: Muhammadu Indimi Centre for International Learning:
“Abdul Samad Rabi’u International Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Civil Engineering materials strength testing laboratories donated by Engr. (Dr) Abubakar Isa; Centre for Countering Violent Extremism Auditorium donated by North East Development Commission (NEDC).
“Department of Petroleum & Gas Engineering donated by Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC); 500-seater lecture theatre for the Faculty of Engineering donated by NNPC; 250-capacity Virtual Examination Centre for the Centre for Distance Learning donated by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC);.
“70 staff quarters donated by Borno State Government (BOSG), and Provision of Solar Power through the Energizing Education Programme (EEP) of the Federal Governments (On-going),” Shugaba said.
The outgoing CV Prof. Shugaba, further, explained that,” In addition to the provision of infrastructure and services, we also established new faculties and academic programmes, thereby expanding the space for interested candidates to seize the opportunity for learning.”
“We have also undertaken many administrative reforms aimed at increasing productivity, greater efficiency and discipline in the University. We have also established and maintained a peaceful disposition towards all stakeholders of the University.
” We related very well with all sections of the University community and the host community, including the Borno State Government, and governments of other states in the North East region; traditional, religious and community leaders, philanthropists, security agencies, other institutions within and outside Borno State; national and international, governmental and non-governmental organisations; industry, civil society organisations, the mass media and others too numerous to mention here.
“The overwhelming support of these individuals and organisations contributed immensely to the stability, peace and progress of the University. As I leave office at the end of my tenure on 3 June, 2024, I wish to express my profound appreciation to all individuals, groups and organisations for giving us the machines support, understanding and cooperation throughout my tenure.
“While I pray Almighty Allah to continue to sustain the University on the path of greater progress and development, I urge you to extend the same level of support to my successor. Thank you all, and God bless the University of Maiduguri,” Prof. Shugaba added.
