Zulum urges Kashim Ibrahim University council to drive innovation and research for post-insurgency recovery

Maiduguri, Nigeria — Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has charged the Governing Council of Kashim Ibrahim University with the strategic responsibility of advancing research, innovation, and community engagement to support the region’s ongoing post-insurgency recovery.

The Governor issued the charge on Monday during the formal inauguration of the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Dr. Muhammadu Indimi, along with other Council members. The ceremony took place at the Council Chamber of the Borno State Government House in Maiduguri.

Governor Zulum described the inauguration as a critical step in repositioning Kashim Ibrahim University as a hub for knowledge, innovation, and moral leadership—not only for the North-East region but for the nation at large.

“The challenges before you are as significant as the opportunities. You are tasked with cultivating a culture of rigorous research, innovative pedagogy, and curricula that are deeply responsive to the needs and realities of our post-insurgency recovery,” the Governor said.

Highlighting the institution’s rapid growth, Zulum noted that the university’s student population had expanded from 300 to approximately 10,000 within just six years. He called on the newly inaugurated Council to prioritize both staff and student welfare while maintaining the highest standards of academic integrity, transparency, and fiscal responsibility.

“You are now the legal custodians of this university’s destiny,” he stated. “You carry a sacred mandate to provide strategic direction, ensure financial discipline, and uphold academic excellence and institutional accountability.”

Governor Zulum reiterated his administration’s deep investment in educational transformation. He cited the construction of 139 new mega schools, widespread school rehabilitations, the recruitment of thousands of teachers, and the establishment of six Centres of Excellence. He also noted that political thuggery had been formally banned to redirect youth energy toward educational and vocational growth.

“This ceremony reflects our unwavering commitment to strengthening the governance frameworks of all tertiary institutions in Borno State,” Zulum emphasized. “It is essential to reposition this university as a beacon of learning, innovation, and moral excellence for the region and beyond.”

Referencing Section 1(1)(c) of the Third Schedule of the Kashim Ibrahim University Law (2018, as amended), the Governor affirmed his legal authority to constitute the Governing Council, the supreme body responsible for the institution’s policy, financial oversight, and administrative control.

In his concluding remarks, Governor Zulum congratulated the newly appointed Council members for their demonstrated integrity, experience, and commitment to education and societal advancement.

“Your appointments are the result of deliberate choices—not coincidence. I extend my sincere congratulations, particularly to our Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Dr. Muhammadu Indimi, whose renowned philanthropy and steadfast support for education are deeply appreciated.”

In his response, Dr. Muhammadu Indimi, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, expressed gratitude for the appointment and affirmed his commitment to the university’s growth and transformation.

“I graciously accepted this position in service to my state,” Indimi said. “Together with my distinguished colleagues, we pledge to bring about positive, lasting change in the university.”