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.
UN Secretary-General Urges Global Reset as Military Spending Hits Record High
By: Michael Mike
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the world is at a critical turning point, urging global leaders to redirect priorities from war to peace as military spending reaches unprecedented levels.
In his New Year video message, Guterres said the international community is grappling with deepening chaos and uncertainty marked by growing divisions, violence, climate breakdown and persistent violations of international law.
“The world stands at a crossroads,” the UN chief said, noting that many people are increasingly questioning whether political leaders are listening or prepared to act in the face of escalating global challenges.
Guterres revealed that global military expenditure has surged to about 2.7 trillion dollars, representing an increase of nearly 10 per cent. According to him, the figure is 13 times higher than total global development aid and roughly equal to the entire Gross Domestic Product of Africa.
He described the trend as alarming, especially as conflicts are raging at levels not seen since the Second World War, while millions of people continue to suffer from poverty, inequality and the effects of climate change.
Calling for a shift in global priorities, the Secretary-General stressed that lasting peace can only be achieved by investing more in human development rather than вооружed conflict. “A safer world begins by investing more in fighting poverty and less in fighting wars,” he said.
Guterres maintained that the world has sufficient resources to improve living standards, protect the planet and build a future anchored on peace and justice, if political will is applied.
Looking ahead to 2026, he challenged leaders across the globe to make decisive choices that place people and the environment above conflict and suffering. He also appealed to citizens worldwide to take responsibility and contribute to positive change.
“Our future depends on our collective courage to act,” Guterres said, calling for renewed global unity in the pursuit of justice, humanity and peace in the new year.
UN Secretary-General Urges Global Reset as Military Spending Hits Record High
Two others loose life as Anthony Joshua survives car crash in Ogun state
By: Bodunrin Kayode
The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed two deaths even as the world renowned boxer, Anthony Joshua, survived a fatal car crash in Ogun state.
The three were moving in the same vehicle today when their vehicle was involved in a road traffic accident after a head on collision with an on coming vehicle at about 11:00 am, in Makun area of Ogun State.
The incident occurred along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, just before Danco Filling Station, near the Sagamu Interchange on the Ibadan-bound axis.
Ogun state police spokesman Oluseyi Babaseyi in a statement said that the vehicle conveying Anthony Joshua, a Lexus SUV, was involved in the accident under circumstances that are currently being investigated.
” He was seated in the rear of the vehicle, sustained minor injuries and receiving medical attention.
“Tragically, two other passengers in the vehicle lost their lives at the scene. The deceased have been conveyed to Livewell Hospital Morgue, Sagamu.
“The Ogun State Police Command extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and assures the public that a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident has commenced..
“Further updates on the incident will be communicated as investigation progresses.” Said the release.
Two others loose life as Anthony Joshua survives car crash in Ogun state
Emir of FIKA calls for unity to foster development in Yobe
By: Yahaya Wakili
His Royal Highness, the Emir of Fika and Chairman of the Yobe State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Dr. Muhammad Ibn Abali Muhammad Idrisa CON, CFR, has called on community leaders, elders, youth, and all stakeholders to join hands to unite in our commitment to fostering development, preserving our heritage, and empowering one another.
The royal father made the call at the unveiling of the potentials of Kukar-Gadu, the launching of the history of Kukar-Gadu, the presentation of the Kukar-Gadu physical development plan, and the commission of the Kukar-Gadu Empowerment Development Initiative at Kukar-Gadu town in Yobe state.
He said, “Let us first reflect on the profound heritage that Kukar-Gadu stlands for. Our history is steeped in resilience, courage, and a spirit of unity that transcends generations.” Adding that, the history of the Kukar-Gadu book is a testament to our past, a chronicle that honors our ancestors, celebrates our tradition, and preserves the narratives that define our identity.
Dr. Abali maintains that the Kukar-Gadu physical development plan is a visionary blueprint designed to guide our growth, improve our infrastructure, and enhance the quality of life for our commitment to sustainable development that is inclusive, strategic, and responsive to the needs of our community.
“It is essential that we work collaboratively to implement this plan, fostering partnerships among government entities, private stakeholders, and community members. Noted that, in doing so, we can transform our vision into reality. May this development plan serve as a catalyst for positive change, sparking economic growth and social progress.” The Royal Father said.
The Chairman of the Yobe State Council of Traditional Rulers further revealed that the commissioning of the Kukar-Gadu Empowerment Development Initiative aims to equip our youth and women with the skills and resources they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
“As leaders, it is our duty to invest in our greatest asset—our people—and through this initiative, we will create a framework for economic sustainability, providing the tools necessary for individuals to succeed and strengthening our community as a whole. Together we seek to build a future that is prosperous and full of possibilities.
Emir of FIKA calls for unity to foster development in Yobe
UN Secretary-General Urges Global Reset as Military Spending Hits Record High
Two others loose life as Anthony Joshua survives car crash in Ogun state
Emir of FIKA calls for unity to foster development in Yobe
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
FAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoRoger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions4 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News8 months agoFAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
Opinions4 years agoPOLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
News2 years agoEYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
ACADEMICS2 years agoA History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns2 years agoArmy University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Opinions2 years agoTinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
