The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), one of Nigeria’s foremost institutions of learning and a beacon of resilience in the North East, has conferred the prestigious Doctor of Science (Honoris causa) on the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, FNSE, FNIAE, mni, in recognition of his exceptional service, transformational leadership, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of humanity.
The colourful ceremony, held at the university’s main campus in Maiduguri, attracted a distinguished gathering of academics, traditional rulers, government officials, development partners, and jubilant students, all united in celebrating a leader whose impact has transcended politics and earned him admiration across the nation and beyond.
In his citation, read before the award was formally bestowed, UNIMAID described Governor Zulum as “a scholar of distinction, an administrator of uncommon courage, and a visionary builder whose leadership has restored hope, dignity, and development to millions.” The institution noted that the honorary degree was conferred after careful consideration of his transformational governance, humanitarian interventions, and relentless efforts to stabilise and rebuild communities affected by years of insurgency.
Governor Zulum, a professor of irrigation engineering and former academic staff of the university, received the recognition with humility and deep appreciation. His return to UNIMAID—this time as a recipient of one of its highest honours—was described by many as a full-circle moment, highlighting his journey from classroom educator to exemplary public servant.
In his acceptance speech, the Governor expressed gratitude to the university authorities for the honour, noting that UNIMAID remains an institution that shaped not only his academic path but also his philosophy of service.
“This award is not just for me,” he said. “It is for the resilient people of Borno State, for every community that has stood firm in the face of adversity, and for every citizen whose courage motivates my daily work. I accept this honour with gratitude and renewed commitment to serve.”
UNIMAID highlighted several achievements that qualified Governor Zulum for the honorary doctorate, including:
Massive reconstruction and resettlement efforts in communities devastated by insurgency, enabling thousands of displaced families to return home with dignity.
Reforms in education, ranging from recruitment of thousands of teachers, construction of new schools, and upgrading of technical institutions.
Innovative agricultural programmes designed to enhance food security and support livelihood recovery.
Investment in infrastructure, such as roads, healthcare facilities, and rural development projects across all 27 local government areas.
Transparent and inclusive governance, earning him national and international accolades as one of Nigeria’s most hardworking and people-oriented governors.
The university noted that in spite of Borno’s unique challenges, Zulum has demonstrated courage, compassion, and competence—qualities that reflect academic excellence blended with pragmatic leadership.
The announcement of the honorary degree was met with widespread celebration across Borno State and the broader North East region. Many citizens took to social media to congratulate their Governor, describing the award as “well-deserved,” “timely,” and “a recognition of real work, not politics.”
Development partners working in Borno—particularly in humanitarian, security, and recovery initiatives—also commended the governor for strengthening collaboration, supporting local and international agencies, and championing long-term stability in the region.
Traditional rulers, including district and ward heads, praised the honour as a testament to Zulum’s grassroots engagement and his dedication to fairness, equity, and justice in governance.
The University of Maiduguri has, over the years, honoured individuals who made outstanding contributions to education, national development, peacebuilding, and humanitarian service. By conferring the Doctor of Science (Honoris causa) on Governor Zulum, the institution reaffirmed its commitment to celebrating leadership rooted in empathy, intellect, and measurable impact.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasised that Zulum’s achievements mirror the university’s core values: knowledge, service, resilience, and integrity. He added that the honour also serves to inspire students to pursue excellence, no matter the challenges they face.
From supervising midnight projects to personally intervening in humanitarian situations, Governor Zulum has earned a reputation for hands-on leadership. His ability to combine academic discipline with political courage has set him apart as one of Nigeria’s most admired public leaders.
Observers noted that Zulum’s governance model, built on transparency, community participation, and evidence-based decision-making, has become a reference point for administrators seeking effective leadership strategies in crisis-affected regions.
As the applause echoed across the auditorium and well-wishers lined up to greet him, the mood was one of pride and inspiration. For many, this recognition symbolised hope—proof that integrity and hard work still earn honour in Nigeria.
With the conferment of this Doctor of Science (Honoris causa), UNIMAID has not only celebrated a distinguished alumnus but also strengthened the bond between academia and public service.
For Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the honour reinforces his lifelong commitment to knowledge, service, and the rebuilding of Borno State into a peaceful, prosperous, and resilient home for all.
Congratulations Your Excellency on this well-deserved recognition.
