UNIMAID Vice-Chancellor Pledges Support for CONUA, Advocates Freedom of Association

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to industrial harmony by pledging support for the Congress of University Academics (CONUA).

During a courtesy visit by the UNIMAID Chapel on February 9, 2026, Professor Mele emphasized that academic staff should enjoy the freedom to choose their union affiliations based on personal conviction rather than automatic enrollment. This stance marks a significant step toward pluralism within the university's internal labor relations.

The Vice-Chancellor addressed several critical requests from the union leadership, including:

Infrastructure: An assurance to provide additional office space for CONUA members to facilitate their activities.

Financial Administration: A directive to the University Bursary to review and resolve administrative issues related to the union’s operations.

Union Recognition: A commitment to give "due consideration" and immediate attention to the union's pursuit of full integration into university affairs.

Earlier in the meeting held at the Muhammadu Buhari Senate Building, the Chairperson of CONUA UNIMAID, Professor Mohammad Fannami, congratulated the Vice-Chancellor on his recent assumption of office. He lauded Professor Mele’s leadership style and urged the management to ensure the union is accorded the necessary recognition to function effectively alongside other academic bodies.

This engagement comes as CONUA continues to seek official recognition in decision-making organs across Nigerian federal universities, following its registration as a separate entity from ASUU.