By Emmanuel Kwada
In a bold commitment to elevate Modibbo Adama University (MAU) to the forefront of higher education in Nigeria, Vice Chancellor Prof. Ibrahim Umar has announced the introduction of new academic programs in Forensic Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI), slated to commence in 2026.

His vision focuses on transforming the university into a leading institution that meets the evolving demands of the job market.
Prof. Umar, who assumed office just six months ago, outlined his ambitious plans during a recent courtesy visit from the 1989 graduating class of the University of Maiduguri’s Agriculture Department, which includes Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima. The Vice Chancellor highlighted several achievements during his brief tenure, including the forthcoming launch of new courses in Media and Communication, English, and Religious Studies.
I urge him to leverage his position to bring about meaningful advancements for our university, which is home to many of our shared friends and colleagues
Addressing the challenges faced by MAU, Prof. Umar acknowledged the persistent power supply issues that have hampered the university’s growth. However, he expressed optimism about an upcoming solar-powered farm being commissioned by the federal government, which he believes will significantly enhance the university’s operational capacity.

During the visit, Prof. Umar reminisced about the camaraderie shared with his former classmates, emphasizing the importance of their continued support as he embarks on this new journey. He urged Vice President Shettima to advocate for further development at MAU, citing their longstanding friendship and Shettima’s dedication to community upliftment.
“Vice President Shettima has always been a champion for humanity,” Prof. Umar remarked. “I urge him to leverage his position to bring about meaningful advancements for our university, which is home to many of our shared friends and colleagues.”
The gathering featured heartfelt speeches from Prof. Abdulahi Sadiq, Prof. Abubakar Ibrahim, Dada Ulea, and Prof. Kaleb Filli, who all expressed their support for Prof. Umar’s vision. They praised his early initiatives and offered prayers for his success and well-being throughout his tenure.

Prof. Kaleb, speaking on behalf of the 1989 graduates, acknowledged the significant progress made in such a short time and commended the collaborative efforts between Vice President Shettima and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in crafting policies beneficial to Nigerians.
In a gesture of solidarity and goodwill, the alumni presented Prof. Umar with a plaque commemorating his appointment and their shared hopes for his leadership to bring about transformative change at MAU.
The alumni presented Prof. Umar with a plaque commemorating his appointment and their shared hopes for his leadership
As the university prepares for these significant changes, the community is eager to witness how Prof. Umar’s leadership and the anticipated new programs will shape the future of Modibbo Adama University, positioning it as a beacon of academic excellence in Nigeria.
