The Borno State Executive Council has approved the renaming of Borno State University to Kashim Ibrahim University, in honor of the first governor of northern Nigeria.
The decision was made during the first State Executive Council meeting of 2025, chaired by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum. Held at the Government House Council Chamber, the meeting lasted over six hours and focused on key issues affecting the state.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar, announced that 42 memos were deliberated upon. The Council also reviewed the state’s 2024 performance and outlined projections for the new year.
Legislative and Regulatory Approval
Professor Tar emphasized that the renaming of the university requires legislative amendments and notifications to relevant authorities in coordination with the Ministry of Education.
“Council approved that Borno State University shall be renamed Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri. This is subject to legislative procedures by the State Assembly to amend the law establishing the University. The Ministry of Education will also notify regulatory agencies like the National Universities Commission (NUC), Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), and Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN),” Tar stated.
Urban Renewal Initiatives
The Council also approved a comprehensive street naming and house numbering initiative for Maiduguri and other urban areas as part of the administration’s urban renewal agenda.
“Maiduguri is rapidly developing, with new buildings, public roads, and facilities requiring updated names. Relevant MDAs will collaborate with agencies such as the Nigerian Postal Service, Nigerian Geological Survey, traditional rulers, and community leaders to create a new naming template,” Professor Tar explained.
Once finalized, the updated names will be integrated into Google Maps, public directories, and official records to enhance urban planning and governance. The process is set to begin immediately.
Governor Zulum’s New Year Priorities
In his remarks, Governor Babagana Zulum commended Council members for their dedication and pledged to scale up recovery efforts following conflicts and floods. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to impactful projects aimed at improving the lives of Borno citizens.
“In 2024, we achieved significant progress in implementing government programs and projects. I am determined to deliver even greater results in 2025,” Governor Zulum said.
Valedictory Session for Outgoing Head of Service
The meeting also included a valedictory session for the retiring Head of Service, Barrister Malam Fannami. The Council expressed gratitude for his contributions to the state and wished him well in his future endeavors.
