UNIMAID Set to Graduate Record 20,164 Students as University Marks 50th Anniversary
The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) is preparing for one of the largest convocations in its history, announcing that 20,164 students will graduate as the institution celebrates its 25th Convocation Ceremony and 50th Anniversary.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Muhammed Mele, revealed the figures at a press briefing on Monday, highlighting the university’s expanding academic capacity, rising research output, and major government-backed infrastructure upgrades reshaping the institution.
A Record-Breaking Convocation Class
According to Professor Mele, the 2024/2025 session produced one of UNIMAID’s most diverse graduating classes across diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels:
- 66 PhD degrees
- 1,020 Master’s degrees
- 3,851 Postgraduate Diplomas
- 13,624 Bachelor’s degrees
- 1,699 Diplomas
For Bachelor’s degree graduates, the VC disclosed the breakdown of results:
- 205 First Class Honours
- 3,114 Second Class Upper Division
- 9,501 Second Class Lower Division
These numbers, he said, underline the university’s academic strength and the growing number of high-performing students across key fields.
Federal Government Support and 12MW Solar Plant Transform Campus Operations
Professor Mele praised the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for consistent funding that has supported academic programmes and infrastructure renewal.
A major highlight is the university’s 12MW hybrid solar power plant, which has significantly improved electricity supply for classrooms, laboratories, offices, and the Medical College.
The VC noted that this reliable energy source has reduced learning disruptions and boosted productivity across the campus.
TETFund Investments Strengthen Medicine, Nursing, and Pharmacy
UNIMAID also received massive support from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), including:
- ₦4 billion for new and upgraded infrastructure
- Over ₦700 million for new hostels in the Medical College
- Funding for a state-of-the-art Simulation Laboratory
These investments, Mele said, are designed to expand enrolment in Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, and Pharmacy while improving hands-on training for medical students.
Strong Backing from Borno State Government
The Borno State Government, led by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, received special appreciation for its direct support, including:
- Staff housing projects
- Modern laboratory equipment
- Scholarships and sponsorships
- Solar-powered boreholes
- General campus development support
These interventions have significantly improved learning and living conditions for students and staff.
UNIMAID at 50: Resilience, Growth, and an Endowment for the Future
Marking five decades of academic service, UNIMAID is reflecting on its resilience during years of insecurity in the region. Despite these challenges, the university has remained a hub of learning for the entire Sahel.
To secure its future, the university has launched the UNIMAID Endowment Fund to support:
- Research and innovation
- Academic buildings and learning facilities
- Scholarships
- Staff development
- Long-term financial sustainability
Professor Mele described the fund as a strategic investment in the next 50 years of the institution.
Honouring National Figures and Academic Mentors
As part of the convocation and anniversary events, three distinguished Nigerians will be honoured for their contributions to society.
Several UNIMAID professors will also be recognised for decades of mentorship and academic excellence.
These honours aim to inspire students and highlight the value of lifelong service, leadership, and scholarship.
A Call to Alumni, Partners, and Philanthropists
Closing his remarks, the Vice Chancellor urged alumni, corporate organisations, development partners, and philanthropists to support new projects that will enhance research, student welfare, and academic innovation.
He emphasized that collective support is essential to building “a stronger, smarter UNIMAID that will serve generations to come.”
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