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Random Thoughts On Gov. Zulum @54.

Published

2 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

Jubilation as Borno Emerges Winner of the male category of the 2025 National Qur’anic Competition

Published

3 hours ago

December 22, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Jubilation as Borno Emerges Winner of the male category of the 2025 National Qur’anic Competition

By: Bodunrin Kayode

There was massive jubilation at the convocation square of university of Maiduguri as Borno State emerged as the winner in the male category of the National Qur’anic Recitation Competition tagged, ‘Borno 2025’.

Announcing the results over the weekend, the Director of the Centre for Islamic Studies at Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto, Professor Abubakar Yelwa, declared Musa Ahmed Musa of Borno as the winner of the male category of the competition.

Also after a ten day stiff competition, in the unimaid campus, the winner of the female category was also Hafsat Muhammad Sada of Kano State

The ten day competition, which is the 40th in the series since inception, saw 296 contestants from 30 states competing across six categories to win grand prizes.

In his remark, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, stated that the successful hosting of the 2025 Qur’anic competition signalled the return of peace to the state.

He noted that the event symbolised the people’s commitment to peace, education, and the pursuit of knowledge which were key factors of development.

“To host this milestone 40th edition is not just an honour for Borno State, it is a profound affirmation of our enduring commitment to peace, education and the noble pursuit of knowledge, particularly the divine wisdom contained within the Holy Qur’an.

“Borno State remains resolute in its mission to rebuild, restore peace and prioritise education, both secular and religious.

“The successful hosting of this national event is a clear signal to the world. Borno is back, Borno is safe and Borno is a centre for learning and spiritual growth,

“To those who have emerged as the ultimate champions in their respective categories, I offer my most profound congratulations.

“Your success is not merely a victory in a competition, it is a crowning achievement born of countless hours of discipline, commitment, and reverence for the Word of Allah.

“And to every young man and woman who participated, who stood before the judges and recited from the Holy Book, I want you to know that you are all winners.

“The true spirit of this competition lies not just in the prizes won, but in the noble pursuit of knowledge and the courage to participate.” Said Zulum.

Governor Zulum also expressed appreciation for the support of the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima; his wife, Hajiya Nana Shettima; Governors and their deputies; royal fathers; Usman Dan Fodio University; and other prominent personalities who contributed to the success of the occasion.

Also speaking, Prof Attahiru Jega Pro Chancellor, Usman Dan Fodio university Sokoto said he believes that the whole exercise is about knowledge passed from generation to generation adding that the 40th celebration of the activity is a celebration of excellence that is worthwhile.

Chair of the local organizing committee (LOC) and secretary to the Borno State government, Tijani Bukar said he was excited that the program ended in peace and those who participated were happy with the officiating and entire conduct of the occasion.

The event was attended by Wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima; the Governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Dikko Umoru Radda; the Sokoto State Deputy Governor; the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi; other traditional rulers; members of the National and State Assemblies; the APC Deputy National Chairman; commissioners; Islamic scholars; and other dignitaries.

High points of the event was the presentation of gifts to the winners by wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Kashim Shettima.
End

News

Sunday Olatuyi: NUJ Demands Prosecution of Killer Driver

Published

4 hours ago

December 22, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Sunday Olatuyi: NUJ Demands Prosecution of Killer Driver

By: Michael Mike

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council has called for the prosecution of the reckless driver who killed one of its members, Sunday Olatuyi of Advocate Broadcasting Network (ADBN Television).

The Council in a statement by its Secretary, Comrade Jide Oyekunle, said it received with shock and deep sorrow the untimely death of one of its committed members, Mr. Sunday Olatuyi, who lost his life after being hit by a Toyota Corolla with the registration number ABUJA RBC 128 AM at Lugbe Bus Stop, Abuja.

According to the Secretary, the unfortunate incident occurred on Saturday night, December 20, 2025, at the Lugbe Bus Stop, where he was reportedly knocked down by a reckless driver while heading home after closing from work.

He was said to have been accompanied by a friend at the time of the incident.

Olatuyi, aged 40, hailed from Odo-Oro Ekiti, Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State. He is survived by his wife, a seven-month-old daughter, Eniola, and his aged mother.

Until his death, Olatuyi worked with Advocate Broadcasting Network (ADBN Television) as a Senior Cameraman. He was formerly with Ben TV.

The statement read: “It is a painful loss to the NUJ FCT family and to all who knew him as a dedicated professional and union man. His commitment to the ideals of journalism and his active participation in union activities will be greatly missed. His passing leaves a vacuum that will be difficult to fill.

“Mr. Olatuyi’s untimely death is tragic and unfortunate, especially given the circumstances surrounding the incident, and it calls on the relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served.

“The NUJ FCT Council condemns in strong terms the circumstances that led to this tragic incident and expresses grave concern over the growing cases of reckless driving and disregard for human lives on our roads, particularly within the Federal Capital Territory.

“In view of this unfortunate development, the Council demands an immediate, thorough, and transparent investigation into the incident and calls on the Nigeria Police Force to promptly prosecute the driver involved in accordance with the law. Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done, to serve as a deterrent to others.

“The NUJ FCT Council extends its heartfelt condolences to the immediate family he left behind, the management and entire staff of ADBN Television, the Correspondents’ Chapel, the Society of Practicing Cameramen, as well as friends and colleagues of the deceased.

“The Council assures the bereaved family of its solidarity and support during this difficult time and pledges to continue following up on the case until justice is served. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.”

Sunday Olatuyi: NUJ Demands Prosecution of Killer Driver

News

Tinubu commissions Borno’s projects, says Zulum’s performance exceptional

Published

1 day ago

December 21, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Tinubu commissions Borno’s projects, says Zulum’s performance exceptional

By: Michael Mike

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday commissioned three newly constructed mega schools and a fleet of 620 fully electric vehicles and tricycles delivered by the governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum.

During the commissioning ceremony, which was performed separately, President Tinubu commended Governor Zulum for his transformative leadership.

The president said: “I congratulate the Governor and the people of Borno State for this transformation. Government is all about people, and Professor Zulum is doing a very good job of caring for people.”

The president highlighted the projects as tangible evidence of effective governance and a blueprint for holistic state development.

The commissioned schools include Mafoni Day Secondary School, Bola Ahmed Tinubu Government Day Secondary School and Mafoni Primary School.

They are part of Governor Zulum’s ambitious 104 Mega School Initiative designed to drastically improve access to quality education and rebuild the sector after over a decade of insurgency.

Each of the facilities is equipped with modern classrooms, laboratories, libraries, sports facilities and an administrative complex to create a conducive learning environment.

The president also commissioned the international terminal of the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport, Maiduguri, in preparation for the commencement of international operations.

Governor Zulum, in his response, expressed gratitude for the federal government’s support and reiterated his administration’s commitment to rebuilding Borno’s infrastructure, economy and human capital.

The event was attended by federal and state officials, traditional rulers and community leaders.

President Tinubu concluded his state visit by attending the wedding ceremony of former Borno State Governor Sheriff’s son, conducted at the Maiduguri Central Mosque.

Tinubu commissions Borno’s projects, says Zulum’s performance exceptional