SAN FRANCISCO, July 28, (THEWILL) – Despite the upsurge in terrorist attacks on the University of Maiduguri, UNIMAID, by Boko Haram insurgents, the Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, says the Federal Government does not intend to close the institution.
THEWILL recalls that the lecturers’ union in UNIMAID confirmed on Thursday that five of its members were killed when Boko Haram ambushed an NNPC oil exploration team, adding that four other university staff, who were among the research team, are still missing.
The university had in recent times been witnessing repeated cases of suicide missions carried out at various locations in the campus including security posts and mosques.
Speaking during a visit to the university on Friday, Adamu condoled with the university community over the brutal murder of some staff of the institution by Boko Haram insurgents.
The minister said the government does not want academic activities at the institution to be truncated, in spite of the security situation in the state.
“You demonstrate great courage and resilience to stay here to do your work despite the security challenges.
“We commend you and the government appreciate what you are doing; even to work in Maiduguri requires courage.
“Before I come here, I had thought of closing down the university, but, after listening to the Vice Chancellor and seeing what you are doing, I am proud of you.”
He confessed feeling ashamed to have thought of shuting down the school, expressing delight that the University stakeholders were committed to working despite the security threats.
“The Federal Government will not close the university and will provide you with all necessary support.’’
The minister suggested that the university senate should deliberate on the security matter affecting the institution and make recommendations to secure the campus.
He pledged more assistance to the university to enhance security and academic activities.
Adamu also condoled with families of victims of the insurgency in the university community and prayed for the repose of their souls.
In an earlier remark, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibrahim Njodi, said that that five staff of the institution were killed in the recent insurgents attack.
He listed the deceased to include two geologists, two technologists and a driver, adding that four other staff still missing include: two lecturers, one technologist and a driver.
“We are seriously concerned about their safety, we contacted the security to know their whereabouts,’’ Njodi said.
He told the minister that the university had entered into a partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, on oil exploration in the Lake Chad Basin.
“In our commitment to contribute to the country’s economic development, we defied the odds and joined the operation.
“Initially, we reluctantly accepted to go back and joined the operation, but we were assured of adequate security.
“The deceased (victims of the insurgency) should be immortalised, they deserve the national honour.’’
