The Vice President Kashim Shettima has said that investing in education is never a gamble, describing it as a deliberate commitment to securing Nigeria’s future, as Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri, graduated 2,294 students and installed the Ooni of Ife as its Chancellor.
Shettima spoke at the combined convocation ceremonies of the university, covering the 2022/2023, 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic sessions, according to a statement by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha.
Addressing the graduands, the Vice President said education remained the most powerful tool for development, economic empowerment and societal liberation.
“No investment in education is ever a gamble. It is a conscious plan for a better, more secure future,” Shettima said.
He urged the graduating students to uphold integrity and excellence, reminding them that their conduct would shape the reputation of the institution.
“Wherever life takes you, you carry the name and values of Kashim Ibrahim University. You must shun ethical shortcuts and moral compromise,” he stated.
Reflecting on the impact of insurgency on the state, Shettima said Borno had paid a heavy price for disruptions to education but chose resilience over despair.
Borno has paid a heavy price for the years education was disrupted. Yet, the people chose resilience over despair and learning over loss,” he said.
Describing the graduands as pioneers of the institution, the Vice President told them history would judge the university by what they become.
“You are the first torchbearers of this institution. History will judge this university by what you become and how you conduct yourselves,” he added.
Shettima commended the university’s academic and administrative leadership, including its pioneer Vice-Chancellor and current management, for laying what he described as a solid foundation for learning in the North-East.
He also praised Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, saying his leadership transformed an idea into a lasting institution.
This convocation is proof that true leadership measures power by the number of lives it enlightens,” he said.
The Vice President further applauded the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, for his commitment to the state during the height of the Boko Haram insurgency.
Alhaji Indimi’s wealth has consistently been deployed for the good of society, especially when Borno needed it most,” Shettima noted.
In a symbolic gesture, Shettima announced the donation of two electric vehicles to support the university’s shuttle services, saying, “These vehicles are a modest contribution to ease mobility within the campus and support the learning environment.”
Earlier, Governor Zulum announced automatic employment for 81 of the best graduating students of the university, alongside immediate postgraduate scholarships within and outside Nigeria.
“Excellence must be rewarded. These young men and women have earned the confidence of the Borno State Government,” Zulum said.
