JAPANESE AMBASSADOR DONATES BOOKS TO UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI

The Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. SUZUKI Hideo, on 2nd August, 2025, donated 183 books to the University in Abuja under the Read Japan Project. The donation, facilitated by the Tokyo Foundation and the Nippon Foundation, reflects Japan’s continued support for educational development and youth empowerment in Nigeria.

While officially handing over the books to the University Vice-Chancellor, Ambassador Suzuki described them as “powerful tools for learning and discovery.” He also commended the strong partnership with the University and gave special recognition to the vibrant NARUTO Japanese Culture Club, calling it a “wonderful bridge between our cultures.”

In response, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele, expressed gratitude for the generous gesture and highlighted the growing cultural ties between Nigeria and Japan. He said a dedicated “Japanese Corner” will be established at the University’s Ramat Library to provide access to the donated materials and to promote cross-cultural learning among students.

Professor Mele also thanked the Japanese government for its continuous support toward education in Nigeria and expressed hope for deeper collaboration in the future. He was accompanied at the event by the University Registrar, Ahmad Alhaji Lawan; the Bursar, Ibrahim Umar; the University Librarian, Dr. Talatu Rabasa and Professor Mohammed Dauda. Others include Prof. Shehu Liberty, Prof. J. K. Gadzama, Chairman Board of Trustees, and the President of the University of Maiduguri Alumni Association, Dr. Mohammed Bulama, and other alumni.