Borno Governor, Zulum Calls For Hard Work, Humility for Faith-based Institutions

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum has urged faith-based universities to instill spirituality, morality, and discipline in their graduates to help address Nigeria’s moral decline.

Delivering a lecture themed “Two Decades of Excellence: Al-Hikmah University’s Impact on Scholarship and Educational Development in Nigeria,” during Al-Hikmah University’s 14th convocation ceremony and 20th anniversary in Ilorin, Kwara State on Tuesday, the Governor also emphasized the importance of humility, respect for parents, and hard work as essential virtues for success.

“Hard work is good, but humility takes you far in life,” he remarked, sharing his experience as the son of a peasant farmer and commercial driver.

“When I finished my Master’s degree, I returned to my village to farm with my parents, I could have remained in Maiduguri wearing babanrigan, but because I have to be obedient to my parents that is why I am what I am today,” he said.

He also cautioned youth against shortcuts in life, stating that they often lead to regret and disaster.

Meanwhile, the Chancellor of Al-Hikmah University, Alhaji Sayyu Dantata, reflected on the institution’s growth from a young academic community to a thriving hub of innovation and research.

Highlighting the university’s achievements, he expressed pride in the thousands of graduates who are making meaningful contributions to society.

“As we celebrate this milestone, let me remind us of the power of education to transform lives and societies,” Dantata said.

He also commended the university staff, alumni, and well-wishers for their dedication and contributions.

The Chancellor called on students to dream beyond material gain and strive to serve humanity with a sense of fulfillment and responsibility.