News

Random Thoughts On Gov. Zulum @54.

Published

3 years ago

August 24, 2023

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Random Thoughts On Gov. Zulum @54.

By: Inuwa Bwala

At his 52nd birthday, I wrote a piece on Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum in which I made some philosophical allussions to trends in the birth of successful men in life.
Now 54, I have a very strong urge to reproduce that write up, with slight modifications in the order of narrative, but retaining the central theme of celebrating the man.
In that piece I wrote, that, “most successful people in life are often those who have known suffering, who have known loss, who have met failures, defeats and general challenges and have found their ways out of those depths of abandonment.
I am familiar with the adage that, “success has many parents, but failure is an orphan”and I feel that, maker of above statement seem to have Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum at the back of his mind.
Perhaps, there was no significant landmark at his birth in that obsecure Mafa environment, typical of a rural setting. There might not have been signs either, that, a unique child had been born. But as the saying goes, “The year you were born marks only your entry into the world. Other years when you prove your worth are the ones worth celebrating.
What people are celebrating today is not his birth, rather his rise from obsecurity to walk in the corridors of power and affluence. Here is a man who was born into poverty, unnoticed by the world , but who turned around his fortunes for the best through sheer personal efforts.
Professor Babagana Umara Zulum’s exploits in life today have given him so many parents and siblings, each of whom want to identify with him, not only on occasions like this, but all the time.
I dare say, that, from a humble but noble background, Zulum rose from the obsecure Mafa town of Borno State to walk in the corridors and pull the reins of power in a manner that is uncommon in the country’s history.
So, I woke up this morning at a labyrinth: with the urge to write something and be amongst the many fans of Professor Zulum, knowing today marks his fifty fourth birthday, but not knowing at which point to take off.
It is further compounded by the fact that, there is no language one can use as accolade on the Governor that has not already been used by others.
The story of Professor Babagana Umara Zulum is no longer new; one unique thing about it however, is the fact that, behind the fine and impressive stories told about the man is a very expensive sacrifice, which many leaders may not be able to offer, for the service of other men and the country.
Professor Zulum’s life story often elicits emotions looking back at where he came from, compared to where God has catapulted him today.
No story can be more expensive than the story of a man who had to ferry firewood from the bush, serve as motor boy, commercial bus driver and performed other minimal jobs in order to survive and to pay for his way through school to the point of Professorship.
I could imagine as a young man, when he trekked in the hot sands of Maiduguri to attend lectures from where he worked for others on empty stomach.
Everytime I mention Zulum, I never fail to pay special tribute to his predecessor, Senator Kashim Shettima, whom God blessed with the exceptional foresight to promote his candidature. Many people did not believe Kashim Shettima when he told stakeholders, before picking Zulum, that he was giving Borno the best. Events have vindicated him.
Of all the sacrifices Zulum has to offer, the most expensive remains his offer to die, but so that peace will come to Borno and that his people are bailed out of so many years of suffering.
Fifty times they tried to take his life and fifty times he survived. At every instance, Zulum returns to the enclave where attempts were made on his life, giving people a sense of citizenship and offers of livelihood.
Very often, his lieutanants are reluctant going with him to some of the dangerous spots across the state, but very often too, such spots are his favourite places to visit.
I do not want to delve into his developmental projects, as I believe the compendium on his media outings has adequately captured that. I also know that documentaries have covered all areas, but I could not resist mentioning some of those attributes that stand him out.
I believe that Zulum’s successes are not measured by his accomplishments alone, but by the opposition he encountered and the courage with which he maintained the struggle for peace, justice and equity in Borno state.
These could be seen in many of his actions and utterances, which have also served as the compass for members of his cabinet and his other aides.
Perhaps, his quest for a peaceful Borno remains one of the legacies Governor Zulum shall always be remembered for.
His passion for the return peace and the relocation of citizens to their ancestral abodes remain uncompromising. This perhaps informed his often dangerous forays into hitherto very dangerous enclaves.
I would have continued, but that will take me into areas, I earlier tried avoiding, but it remains an irresistible desire to always join millions of Nigerians on whose lips the name of Professor Zulum as always been the sweetest song.”
At the time I was r one above piece, I read the Governor from a distance. Having come closer, as a council Chairman under his tutelage, it is almost irresistible praising him to near point of psychophancy.
His re-election for a second time: which a walkover remains the most eloquent testimony of the love his people have for him.
The second d stanza of his leadership promises to bring for more interesting stories.
I wish our Governor a happy 54th birthday and pray, that, the God who gave him grace to succeed and who saved him from the hands of those who wished him dead, will uphold him

Random Thoughts On Gov. Zulum @54.

News

Gombe, UNICEF move to combat nutrition commodity theft

Published

37 minutes ago

March 3, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Gombe, UNICEF move to combat nutrition commodity theft

The Gombe State government in collaboration with UNICEF, has inaugurated a taskforce to tackle misuse, abuse, and theft of nutrition commodities aimed at addressing malnutrition in the state.

Speaking at the inauguration on Tuesday, Deputy Governor Mr Manassah Jatau, urged taskforce members to adhere strictly to their terms of reference, stressing the importance of safeguarding the health of the population.

He explained that the taskforce’s mandate included identifying, monitoring, and sanctioning anyone diverting, hoarding, destroying, or misusing nutrition commodities intended for malnourished children and other vulnerable groups.

Jatau noted that malnutrition remained a major challenge in northern Nigeria, particularly the North West and North East zones, emphasising that protecting nutrition supplies ensured better returns on government and partner investments.

He outlined the taskforce’s responsibilities, including monthly monitoring of health facilities and storage sites, investigating diversion cases, recommending sanctions, and developing guidelines for transparency and accountability in handling nutrition commodities.

Dr Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, expressed concern over the diversion of life-saving nutrition commodities to the market, depriving malnourished children of critical protection and care.

She highlighted that nutrition supplies were essential for children suffering from Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) and warned that the number of chronically malnourished children was increasing in the state.

Rafique urged the taskforce to diligently prevent diversion or abuse of all nutrition and medical supplies, ensuring aid reached the children who needed it most.

Chairman of the taskforce, Mr Salisu Baba-Alkali, Commissioner of Budget and Economic Planning, assured that the committee would deliver on its mandate, reflecting the government’s strong political will and commitment.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the taskforce underscores Gombe State’s institutional effort to protect life-saving nutrition commodities from misuse, diversion, and theft across health facilities and storage centres.

The initiative is aimed at ensuring that the supplies reach malnourished children and other vulnerable populations as intended by the government and its development partners.

Gombe, UNICEF move to combat nutrition commodity theft

News

Yobe: NBA condemns alleged assault on lawyer by police in Damaturu

Published

6 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Yobe: NBA condemns alleged assault on lawyer by police in Damaturu

By: Yahaya Wakili

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Damaturu branch, under the leadership of its chairman, Ahmad Khalil, Esq., has strongly condemned the alleged assault on one of its members, Muhammad Muhammad Saminu, Esq., by officers of the Damagum Police Division.

In a formal petition made available to newsmen in Damaturu and submitted to the Commissioner of Police, Yobe State Command, Emmanuel Ado, the branch described the incident, which reportedly occurred on February 23, 2026, as a serious violation of constitutional rights and an attack on the administration of justice.

According to the association, Mr. Saminu was at the Damagum Police Division in the lawful discharge of his professional duties as counsel to a detained client when he was allegedly assaulted.

The Nigerian Bar Association claims that the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Muhammad Abdullahi Baffah, and officers under his command subjected the lawyer to hostility, physical assault, and degrading treatment within the station premises; it is further alleged that he sustained injuries and damage to his personal property during the incident.

The NBA Damaturu branch further stated that, if the allegations are confirmed, the actions would amount to violations of the constitutional rights to dignity, personal liberty, and a fair hearing.

The association emphasized that interference with a lawyer performing professional duties undermines the rule of law and public confidence in the justice system.

The branch has demanded an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into the matter. It is also calling for the suspension of officers found to be involved, appropriate disciplinary action in line with the Nigerian Police Act, and prosecution where criminal liability is established.

The Association further requested a written response from the police command within seven days.

The NBA reiterated its commitment to defending the rule of law and ensuring the protection of legal practitioners in the discharge of their duties. Adding to that, further developments are expected as the Yobe State Police Command responds to the petition.

While contacting the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Yobe state command SP Dungus Abdulkarim said the case is put to investigation as the commissioner of police meets with MBA today in his office.

Yobe: NBA condemns alleged assault on lawyer by police in Damaturu

News

Renowned Adire Artisan, Grandma Sikira Adunni Aladire, Dies at 90

Published

6 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Renowned Adire Artisan, Grandma Sikira Adunni Aladire, Dies at 90

By: Michael Mike

A prominent traditional tie-and-dye artist and respected community figure, Grandma Sikira Adunni Aladire, has died at the age of 90.

She passed away in the early hours of Monday, March 2, 2026, at her residence in Ile Toki, located at No. N1/506 Balogun Ibikunle Street, Ayeye, Ibadan. She was buried the same day in accordance with Islamic rites.

Widely known by her popular nickname, “Sikira Aladire,” the nonagenarian built a reputation for excellence in the traditional Yoruba art of Adire (tie and dye). She began her training in the craft in the mid-1950s, during Nigeria’s pre-independence era, and went on to become one of the most recognized artisans in her community.

Her intricate patterns and culturally inspired designs drew admirers from far and near. Historical accounts from family members indicate that colonial officials and foreign visitors frequently visited Ile Toki to purchase her fabrics, contributing to the area’s growing reputation as a hub for high-quality tie-and-dye production. Some of her products were reportedly exported abroad, showcasing the artistic heritage of Ibadan and the wider Yoruba culture.

Beyond her craftsmanship, Grandma Sikira was described as a devout Muslim and a custodian of Yoruba traditions. She was also known for her love of Apala and Dundun music, often entertaining neighbors with her graceful dance steps at social gatherings.

Family members said she remained committed to her faith, family, and community throughout her lifetime, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, resilience, and service.

She is survived by her children — Late Sarah Alimi, Abibat Alimi, Suleiman Azeez, and Latifat Balogun — as well as grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and other extended family members.

The 7-day Fidau prayer is scheduled to hold at 12 noon on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at her residence in Ile Toki, Ayeye, Ibadan.

Family members prayed for Allah’s forgiveness for her shortcomings and asked that she be granted Al-Jannah Firdaus.

Renowned Adire Artisan, Grandma Sikira Adunni Aladire, Dies at 90