By Abdulkareem Haruna

MAIDUGURI, Nigeria – The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri (Unimaid), Professor Shugaba, addressed the press today, Nov.15, 2023, shedding light on the remarkable academic achievements to be showcased during the institution’s coming 24th combined convocation ceremony.

In his briefing, Professor Aliyu Shugaba expressed immense pride in the outstanding performance of the university’s graduates, particularly those who have attained First Class honors.

The VC said a total of 147 students, out of the graduating cohort, have accomplished this remarkable feat. Among them, 86 students graduated with First Class honors from the regular undergraduate programs, while an additional 61 students achieved this distinction from the Affiliated Colleges.

“As we commemorate the 24th Combined Convocation ceremony, it is important to acknowledge the profound impact the University of Maiduguri has had on the educational landscape of our nation,” Professor Shugaba remarked. He highlighted the global contributions made by Unimaid’s graduates across various fields, including medicine, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.

The Vice-Chancellor extended his heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff and individuals who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the success of the convocation ceremony. Their unwavering commitment and hard work have been invaluable to the growth and development of the esteemed institution.

While celebrating the convocation, Professor Shugaba emphasized the university’s unwavering commitment to further enhancing the quality of education and research offered by UNIMAID. He revealed that the university is actively exploring partnerships and collaborations, both locally and internationally, to foster academic excellence, promote innovation, and address societal challenges.

In addition to the remarkable achievements at the undergraduate level, the convocation ceremony will witness the graduation of a total of 1,698 postgraduate students. This includes 113 Ph.D. graduates, 817 Master’s degree recipients, and 768 Postgraduate Diploma awardees. The University of Maiduguri will also confer Certificates and Diplomas upon 1,711 students, with 15 students graduating with distinction.

The 24th joint convocation ceremony will be the first to be held in six years due to unstable security caused by the Boko Haram insurgency.