University of Maiduguri Celebrates 50 Years Vice President Shettima Declares Education “Immune System of the Nation”

Vice President Kashim Shettima delivered the 50th‑anniversary lecture “Education, Leadership and National Development” at the Muhammadu Indimi International Conference Centre, Maiduguri, on Saturday, 29 November 2025.

In his address, Shettima described education as the “immune system of the nation,” underscoring its role as the most reliable vehicle for national development. He acknowledged the University of Maiduguri’s five‑decade contribution, noting that its graduates have infused the labour market with knowledge, competence and moral character.

Shettima outlined the Federal Government’s commitment to revitalising the education sector: the 2025 national budget allocates ₦3.5 trillion to education — 7.3 percent of total expenditure — marking a significant increase from previous years. He highlighted new initiatives including support for mechanised farming programmes within universities, grants for medical education, and expanded entrepreneurial schemes to equip students for a modern economy.

He also detailed the devastating impact of insurgency on Borno’s education infrastructure — over 500 schools attacked between 2009 and 2021, destruction of between 2,246 and 5,000 classrooms and the killing of 2,295 teachers — stressing that “an educated population cannot be manipulated or enslaved.” Despite the challenges, he reported recovery efforts: 877,777 learners now enrolled in public schools across Borno, ₦70 billion earmarked for education in the state budget, and substantial investments in school‑feeding and examination‑fee programmes.

The Vice President cited ongoing reforms under President Bola Tinubu, such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) which has disbursed ₦110 billion in interest‑free loans to more than 328,000 students, and digital‑transformation initiatives embedding AI and robotics skills. He called for a united effort from all stakeholders, noting that “government cannot do it alone” in addressing systemic challenges including under‑funding, staff shortages, brain‑drain and outdated curricula.