By Sahel Reporters, Yola
Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola, has entered into a strategic partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to enhance research, teaching, and capacity development in migration, displacement, and border governance.
The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on October 27, 2025, at the University Council Chamber.
The agreement follows an earlier visit by a MAU delegation led by Professor Jude Momodu, during which discussions were held with the IOM Chief of Mission on developing specialized curricula in Migration Studies and Border Governance.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, IOM Chief of Mission, Ms. Dimachi Sharon, commended the partnership and lauded the people of Adamawa State for their hospitality and resilience.
She reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to supporting MAU in building strong academic and research capacities that will benefit both the state and the nation.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibrahim Umar, described the partnership as timely and strategic, noting that Adamawa State hosts a large number of displaced persons due to its proximity to international borders.
He emphasized that the study of migration and border governance is essential to addressing humanitarian and security challenges in the region.
Professor Umar also appreciated IOM’s humanitarian and development interventions, noting that members of the University community have benefitted from various IOM programs.
The MoU provides a framework for collaboration in joint research, academic programs, and community-based initiatives, with a focus on migration, environment, climate change, and risk reduction.
It also includes plans for the establishment of a prototype durable solutions shelter on the MAU campus to support applied research and practical training on displacement and housing solutions.
Additionally, both institutions will collaborate on vocational and entrepreneurship training programs for vulnerable groups, including internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees, aimed at improving employability and economic resilience.
The partnership marks a major milestone for MAU, Yola, as it positions the institution at the forefront of migration and border governance research and training in Nigeria.
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