News
Random Thoughts On Gov. Zulum @54.
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
Concerned Citizens of Northeast Felicitates with Christians on Christmas Celebration
Concerned Citizens of Northeast Felicitates with Christians on Christmas Celebration
…Urges Sustained Prayers for Peace, Prosperity, Well-being of Region and Nigeria
By: Our Reporter
The Concerned Citizens of Northeast has felicitated with Christians in the State and across the world as they celebrate this year’s Christmas.
CCNE called on the Christian faithful and all citizens of Northeast States to embrace the core values of Christmas which connote love, peace, reconciliation, and selflessness, while reflecting on its deeper spiritual significance.
“As we mark this joyous occasion, we urge everyone to emulate the virtues of love, sacrifice, and compassion demonstrated by Jesus Christ. Let us use this period to promote unity, understanding, and cooperation among ourselves, which are essential for building a harmonious and progressive society.
They encouraged the people of the region to sustain the bonds of brotherhood and communal support, emphasizing the need for continued peace and stability in the state.
The Concerned Citizens of Northeast further called for prayers for the prosperity and well-being of the nation, especially during these challenging economic times.
“While these times are undeniably tough, we encourage everyone not to lose hope but to stay optimistic and committed to the vision of a better Nigeria. Together, we can overcome our challenges and pave the way for a brighter future.
Concerned Citizens of Northeast Felicitates with Christians on Christmas Celebration
News
Tsafe community breathing sigh of relief following Killing of Notorious Bandit “Al’jan” by Nigerian troops
Tsafe community breathing sigh of relief following Killing of Notorious Bandit “Al’jan” by Nigerian troops
By Zagazola Makama
Residents of Tsafe Local Government Area in Zamfara State are breathing a sigh of relief following the neutralization of a notorious bandit known as “Al’jan,” who had long terrorized the community.
Originally from Niger Republic, “Al’jan,” whose real name remains undisclosed, settled in Tsafe LGA after working as a motorcycle taxi operator. This job connected him with Fulani herders, leading him down a path of criminality.
Over time, he forged alliances with a bandit group led by Hassan Bamamu, becoming deeply entrenched in acts of banditry and terror throughout the region.
Utilizing his extensive knowledge of Tsafe and its surroundings, “Al’jan” acted as a guide for criminal gangs, orchestrating numerous raids and kidnappings.
He was implicated in several high profile killings, including those of Anas Umar Dan Kanti, Alhaji Musa Ille, and an unnamed Navy officer.
The reign of terror that “Al’jan” inflicted on the community came to an end three weeks ago when security forces successfully neutralized him and several of his associates during a joint operation between Mada and Yandoton Daji in Tsafe LGA.
This operation involved a coordinated effort by soldiers and local vigilantes, who ambushed the gang as they traversed the area.
The elimination of “Al’jan” has brought newfound hope to the people of Tsafe, particularly those residing along the Tsafe-Gusau road, which had suffered from frequent attacks. Residents of Bamamu village, his last known hideout, confirmed his death after viewing his remains.
Tsafe community breathing sigh of relief following Killing of Notorious Bandit “Al’jan” by Nigerian troops
News
Zulum Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians, Vows to Steer Borno Towards Recovery
Zulum Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians, Vows to Steer Borno Towards Recovery
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has felicitated with the Christian community in the state on the occasion of Christmas, urging unity and support for his administration’s development efforts.
In a message delivered through his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, Governor Zulum emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving the state’s goals outlined in the 10-Pact Agenda, 25-Year Development Plan, and 10-Year Strategic Initiatives.
Zulum called on Christians to use the spirit of the season to promote love, forgiveness and good neighbourliness.
“On behalf of the Borno State government, I extend warm greetings to my Christian brothers and sisters on this joyous occasion,” Governor Zulum stated. “I pray for a peaceful and prosperous celebration, and encourage all citizens to use this season to support the less privileged, fostering stronger relationships across all communities.”
Governor Zulum highlighted that his administration will prioritize post-conflict and post-flood recovery to improve the living standards of the people.
He reaffirmed his commitment to providing quality leadership and driving positive change to ensure sustainable growth for the State.
“The task of rebuilding Borno is a collective one,” he continued. “I am dedicated to leading efforts that will transform the state and elevate its citizens to path of prosperity.”
In response to the challenges posed by the removal of fuel subsidy and the ongoing economic difficulties, Governor Zulum’s administration is providing crucial support to vulnerable populations.
This includes the introduction of a mass transport system, distribution of relief items to over 35,000 returnee households, and enrollment of over 94,000 vulnerable individuals into a free healthcare program.
The Governor also expressed his appreciation for the Christian community in maintaining peace and unity throughout the state.
“I sincerely thank the people of Borno for their continued support over the past five and a half years,” Governor Zulum added. “I assure you that my administration remains steadfast in its commitment to securing lives, restoring livelihoods, and revitalizing the state’s economy.”
Zulum enjoins all citizens to be law abiding throughout the festive period and beyond as government is doing everything possible to ensure sustainable peace in Borno State.
Zulum Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians, Vows to Steer Borno Towards Recovery
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