Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has formally received the hosting rights for the 2026 Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) International Engineering Conference, Exhibition and Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled to hold in Maiduguri in December 2026.
The hosting rights were presented on Tuesday night by the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, during a dinner hosted by Governor Zulum in honour of the Society’s leadership delegation.
The conference, themed “Engineering Innovations for Enhanced Security and Sustainable National Development” and tagged “Maiduguri 2026,” is expected to attract approximately 10,000 delegates from various engineering fields across Nigeria and other countries.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the NSE leadership, Governor Zulum assured the delegation that Maiduguri is safe and fully prepared to host the prestigious gathering.
He emphasized that Borno State has successfully hosted several major national and international events in recent years without security challenges.
According to the governor, notable events hosted in Maiduguri in 2025 included the 6th National Council on Power, the 70th National Council on Education, the Kanem-Borno Cultural Summit, the 40th National Qur’anic Recitation Competition, and the 65th National Council on Health.
“I want to inform you that Maiduguri is secured to host the conference, and we are known for our hospitality,” Zulum said.
The governor also welcomed the decision of the NSE to confer its Honorary Fellowship on renowned businessman and philanthropist, Dr. Muhammadu Indimi, describing the recognition as well deserved.
“This award is long overdue. His contribution to the growth and development of education and infrastructure in Nigeria cannot be overemphasised,” Zulum stated.
In his remarks, NSE President Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu commended Governor Zulum for his efforts in promoting security, peace, and development in Borno State. He noted that the Society was impressed by the relative peace currently being enjoyed in Maiduguri and other parts of the state.
Rabiu reaffirmed the Society’s confidence in Borno’s ability to host a successful conference and disclosed that the NSE Council would hold its July meeting in Maiduguri to assess preparations and evaluate the security environment ahead of the event.
“I have consistently informed the Council that the events and engagements we have held in Maiduguri have been conducted successfully without any security incidents. This has strengthened our confidence that, by the grace of God, we will convene a successful and peaceful conference in December,” he said.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur, Secretary to the State Government Bukar Tijani, Acting Chief of Staff Dr. Babagana Mustapha Mallumbe, senior government officials, special advisers, and members of the NSE delegation.
