UNIMAID Vice Chancellor Commends NES on Inauguration of Borno State Chapter, Induction of New Members

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri, Professor Muhammed Laminu Mele, has congratulated the Nigerian Economic Society (NES) on the inauguration of its Borno State Chapter and the induction of new members, describing the event as a major milestone in advancing economic development in the state and across Nigeria.

Represented by the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Professor Mohammed Bruno, Professor Mele delivered his goodwill message on Thursday, October 30, 2025, during the inauguration ceremony held at the Multipurpose Hall of the Borno State Internal Revenue Service (BO-IRS).

He stated that the establishment of the NES Borno Chapter is not merely an administrative milestone but a strong symbol of resilience and forward-looking vision. He commended the people of Borno for their determination in transforming the state’s narrative from one of challenges to one of opportunities, and from reconstruction to sustainable growth.

According to him, the NES Borno Chapter will serve as a vital platform for collaboration among economists from academia, government, and the private sector to develop practical, homegrown solutions to the region’s socio-economic challenges. He urged members to ensure that their research outputs and policy recommendations reflect the realities of Borno and the Northeast, emphasizing key areas such as economic diversification, youth empowerment, agricultural revitalization, and entrepreneurship in a post-conflict economy.

Professor Mele further encouraged members to bridge the gap between theory and practice by engaging with the state government, development partners, and private sector actors to translate research findings into tangible development policies and programs. He reaffirmed the University’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Economic Society in achieving its mission and expressed confidence that the new chapter would become a hub for innovation and progress in Borno State.

Delivering his remarks, the 45th President of the Nigerian Economic Society, Dr. Baba Musa Yusuf, charged the interim leadership of the chapter to uphold the values of professionalism, ethics, and academic excellence in promoting economic growth at both state and national levels. He congratulated the newly inducted members and welcomed them into the professional body.

The Borno State Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Hon. Umar Lawan Dalorima, who represented Governor Babagana Umara Zulum as the chief host, also commended the inauguration and pledged the state government’s continued support for the society’s activities and goals.

As part of the ceremony, the NES presented an Award of Excellence and Outstanding Contribution to Professor Muhammed Laminu Mele, Vice Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri. Other recipients included Hon. Umar Lawan Dalorima, Dr. Baba Musa Yusuf, Professor Dahiru Salami, Professor Mohammed Musa, and Dr. Mohammed Alhaji Bello.