Zulum wins double awards at U.I alumni event

Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum had on Saturday emerged the University of Ibaban’s alumnus of the year 2020.

Though the university of Ibadan alumni event started since 1973, the 2020 version was the 5th edition so far.

A press statement released by Governor Zulum’s spokesman indicated that “the decision to recognize Zulum was reached by all-time graduates of the University from all parts of the world through their alumni association.”

Governor Zulum, who is currently a professor of soil and water engineering, was a student of the University from 1997 to 1998 during which he bagged an Msc in agricultural engineering, before obtaining his Phd at the University of Maiduguri in 2009. 

The event held at the Dame Edith Okowa Auditorium, within the Dr. Michael Omolayole Alumni Complex of the University of Ibadan.

Governors of Osun, and Kwara States were also guests at the event.

Dr. Kemi Anthony Emina, immediate past president of the association, who handed Zulum’s award, described the Governor’s performance in office as outstanding.

Zulum was the fifth to win the award since 1973 when the University of Ibadan Alumni Association came into existence, she said. 

The event had four award categories: life-time achievement, worthy ambassador, most distinguished alumnus and alumnus of the year 2020, and honours to some prominent Nigerians. 

“Mr Zulum was honoured in two different categories; most distinguished alumnus, and the alumnus of the year 2020,” said Mr Gusau.

In their separate remarks, Governor of Osun State, Adegboyega Oyetola and former Minister of Health, Prof. Issac F. Adewole both commended Governor Zulum for his quality leadership in Borno.

“The Governor also expressed appreciation to his lecturers while he was a student at the University of Ibadan back in 1997 and 1998.

Zulum said he would work on strengthening the relationship between the University of Ibadan and the University of Maiduguri.