UNIMAID VC Receives iDICE Delegation, Explores Collaboration on Digital and Creative Enterprises

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri, Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele, has received a delegation from the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) to explore strategic collaboration aimed at promoting digital innovation, entrepreneurship and creative enterprise development among students and youth.

The meeting was held at the Muhammadu Buhari Senate Building on Tuesday, 29th September, 2026, and provided a platform for both parties to discuss the critical role of higher education in equipping young people with digital and creative skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

Receiving the delegation, Professor Mele expressed the University's readiness to partner with forward-thinking organizations that contribute to the capacity development of students, staff and the wider community.

He stressed that theoretical learning is no longer sufficient on its own unless it is backed by practical, 21st-century skills. He noted that universities must actively create platforms that empower young people to translate their knowledge and creativity into sustainable, real-world ventures.

The Vice-Chancellor further reaffirmed UNIMAID's commitment to providing an enabling environment for innovation, research and enterprise development that complements its core mandates of teaching, research and community service.

Earlier in his remarks, the iDICE Project Manager, Dr. Afe Idowu, outlined the initiative's core objectives and revealed the organization's interest in partnering with the University to establish it as the Northeast regional centre, with a specialized focus on desert technology and solar energy potentials.