From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, was on Saturday conferred with an honorary Doctorate Degree by the Federal University, Gashua (FUGA), alongside five other distinguished Nigerians.
According to a statement by Mamman Mohammad, Director General of Press and Media Affairs to the Governor, the honorary degrees were also awarded to Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Minister of Police Affairs and former Yobe governor, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam; Ninth Senate President, Senator Ahmad Lawan; Emir of Lafia, Alhaji Sidi Mohammed Bage; and former Head of Service of the Federation, Alhaji Bukar Goni Aji.
In his remarks at the convocation, Governor Buni reiterated the critical role of education in national development, quoting former U.S. President Barack Obama who described education as “the currency of today’s economy.”
“Education has always been a driving force for development. Sadly, in Yobe, our experience with protracted insurgency severely disrupted the sector. Schools were destroyed, teachers and students killed. The insurgents deliberately targeted western education to make it unattractive,” he said.
Buni recalled that upon assuming office on May 29, 2019, he declared a state of emergency on primary and basic education in Yobe to address the damage and restore confidence in the system.
“Our administration increased budgetary allocation to education, enabling key ministries to execute impactful projects and implement sound policies. I am proud of the collective resilience shown by the people and government of Yobe in reviving the sector,” he added.
The governor noted that the honorary doctorate would serve as further motivation for the recipients to continue contributing to nation-building and improving the lives of Nigerians.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of FUGA, Prof. Maimuna Waziri, said the event was not only a celebration of academic excellence but also a reflection of the university’s growth and resilience over the years.
She highlighted the importance of collaboration between institutions and key stakeholders in achieving the university’s long-term vision and impact.
The convocation ceremony was attended by dignitaries, academics, traditional rulers, students, and members of the university community.