Beyond Politics: The Betara Leadership Question – An Independent Assessment of Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu

By: Dr. James Bwala

Habib Mohammed Biu’s open letter to Rt. Hon. Muktari Aliyu Betara appears genuine at first reading. Its concerns seem to emerge from a citizen’s desire to draw attention to issues affecting the people of Biu, Kwaya-Kusar, Bayo, and Shani Federal Constituency. Such interventions are important in a democracy because elected representatives must remain accountable to the people they serve. Citizens have the right to question priorities, demand explanations, and express disappointment when they believe their needs are not being adequately addressed.

However, when the letter is examined more critically, it appears to reflect a misplaced priority and an incomplete understanding of the responsibilities of a leader operating at the national level. Habib’s position seems to be that of an ordinary citizen thinking through immediate community concerns, while Hon. Betara’s approach is necessarily broader, more strategic, and more complex. The difference between the two perspectives is substantial. One focuses primarily on what is visible and immediately desired by the people; the other must consider competing demands across local governments, the state, and the nation.

This distinction is essential to a fair assessment of Hon. Muktari Aliyu Betara. He should not be reduced to the identity of a local champion whose value is measured only by how quickly he responds to every local appeal. He has become a national figure, particularly because of his contributions and influence across different levels of governance. His responsibilities extend beyond a single constituency, even though the constituency remains central to his political mandate. A leader in his position must simultaneously respond to local needs, participate in national decision-making, support colleagues, manage political relationships, and contribute to broader developmental efforts. Judging him exclusively through the narrow lens of immediate constituency expectations risks producing an unfair conclusion.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/thousands-roar-as-engr-gubio-welcomes-residents-at-apc-2027-campaign-flag-off-in-borno/

Hon. Betara is widely regarded as one of the busiest politicians from Borno State today. His schedule, responsibilities, and political engagements reflect the demands of his position. It is easy for citizens to see only the outcomes they desire, but leadership involves dealing with numerous challenges that may not be visible to the public. A leader has many problems to confront, but he is also expected to provide solutions to many of them. This dual responsibility requires time, resources, patience, and political judgment.

The public often assumes that a prominent politician has unlimited capacity. Because a leader has influence, people expect him to intervene in every matter, assist every individual, and respond to every appeal. Yet no politician, however powerful or generous, can see all things or do all things for the people. The fact that a leader does not respond to one demand does not necessarily mean that he is indifferent. It may indicate that he is dealing with a more urgent matter, working through institutional channels or balancing several competing priorities.

This is why criticisms of Hon. Betara should be constructive and proportionate. Accountability is necessary, but it should not be confused with condemnation. A politician can have weaknesses, make mistakes, or fail to meet certain expectations without being judged as a complete failure. Leadership should be assessed in its totality. The failure to accomplish one task does not erase the achievements recorded in other areas. A balanced evaluation must recognize both shortcomings and contributions.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/thousands-roar-as-engr-gubio-welcomes-residents-at-apc-2027-campaign-flag-off-in-borno/

It is therefore encouraging that Malam Habib Mohammed Biu acknowledged Hon. Betara’s intervention in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board registration process. That intervention reportedly benefited many people on whose behalf Habib was appealing. This acknowledgement is significant because it demonstrates that Betara has responded to real needs within the constituency. Educational support, especially assistance with examination registration, can make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. For families facing financial hardship, such support may determine whether a student is able to participate in an important stage of his or her education.

However, Hon. Betara is not the only politician representing the people of that constituency. Responsibility for development and public welfare must be shared among elected officials, political leaders, community organizations, and citizens. It would be unfair to place every expectation on one individual. Other representatives and stakeholders should also be encouraged to contribute. If one politician is doing something beneficial, the appropriate response should be recognition and encouragement, while others are urged to do more.

Political leadership is not a one-man assignment. Members of the National Assembly, state officials, local government authorities, and community leaders all have distinct responsibilities. Constituents should demand performance from everyone, not focus exclusively on a single prominent figure. When citizens expect only one politician to solve every problem, they unintentionally weaken democratic accountability by allowing others to escape scrutiny.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/thousands-roar-as-engr-gubio-welcomes-residents-at-apc-2027-campaign-flag-off-in-borno/

There is also a need to understand the relationship between a leader and the people who support him during difficult times. The funds Hon. Betara has recently provided to colleagues and musicians may raise questions, especially when public needs remain pressing. Such expenditures may appear to some observers as misplaced when compared with the urgent demands of ordinary citizens. Nonetheless, they require context and clarification rather than immediate condemnation.

Political colleagues can serve as important pillars during periods of difficulty. Politics is a demanding and often unpredictable enterprise. Leaders depend on alliances, relationships, and networks of support, particularly when facing political crises or challenging assignments. Supporting colleagues may be part of maintaining those relationships, securing cooperation, and ensuring the continuation of political work. While such spending should not be above scrutiny, it cannot automatically be dismissed as meaningless or irresponsible.

Similarly, musicians and praise singers often occupy a distinctive place in Nigerian political culture. Their performances can encourage public figures, celebrate achievements, and create an atmosphere that motivates leaders to act. In some cases, their influence may stir a politician to respond to appeals, make donations, or support people in need. The relationship between political leaders and cultural figures is therefore more complex than it may appear. It may involve recognition, social influence, encouragement, and mobilization.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/thousands-roar-as-engr-gubio-welcomes-residents-at-apc-2027-campaign-flag-off-in-borno/

This does not mean that every financial gesture should be accepted without questions. Public officeholders must be transparent, disciplined, and conscious of the difference between personal resources and public funds. Any concern about the use of public resources deserves proper examination. But criticism must be based on facts, not assumptions. Before concluding that a leader’s expenditure is wasteful, the public should seek to understand the source of the funds, the purpose of the spending, and its relationship to the leader’s broader responsibilities.

The central issue, therefore, is not whether Hon. Betara is perfect. He is not. No leader is. The more important question is whether his overall contribution demonstrates commitment to the people and to public service. Based on the interventions attributed to him, including support for JAMB registration, it is clear that he has made efforts to assist members of his constituency. Those efforts should not be ignored simply because there are areas where he has not met expectations.

A fair political culture must learn to combine criticism with appreciation. In many communities, public figures are praised only when they provide immediate financial assistance but condemned when they are unable to meet every demand. This creates an unhealthy environment in which leaders are encouraged to pursue popularity rather than sustainable development. It also reduces public service to personal distribution of money instead of legislation, policy influence, education, infrastructure, and institutional development.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/thousands-roar-as-engr-gubio-welcomes-residents-at-apc-2027-campaign-flag-off-in-borno/

Hon. Betara’s responsibilities as a national figure should be evaluated through a broader framework. His role includes representing constituents, contributing to national lawmaking, influencing policy, engaging with government institutions, and maintaining relationships that can benefit his people. Some of these responsibilities may not produce instant or visible results. Nevertheless, they may have long-term effects on the constituency and the state.

At the same time, describing Betara as a national figure should not place him beyond criticism. National relevance must be accompanied by transparency and responsiveness. His constituents should continue to ask questions, present their concerns, and demand explanations where necessary. The appropriate response is not to silence criticism but to ensure that it is informed, fair, and directed toward improvement. A leader who has accomplished much can still be encouraged to do more.

The open letter by Habib Mohammed Biu should therefore be viewed as part of a wider democratic conversation. It may contain valid concerns, but its judgment of Hon. Betara appears too limited if it overlooks the complexity of his political responsibilities and previous contributions. The fact that one issue remains unresolved does not justify the conclusion that the representative has failed entirely. Nor should a leader’s support for colleagues or musicians automatically be interpreted as proof that he has abandoned his constituency.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/thousands-roar-as-engr-gubio-welcomes-residents-at-apc-2027-campaign-flag-off-in-borno/

What is required is balance. Constituents should acknowledge what Hon. Betara has done, identify what remains to be done, and encourage him to address those gaps. Hon. Betara, for his part, should continue to listen to his people, communicate more clearly, and ensure that his national responsibilities do not weaken his connection to the constituency. Other politicians in the area should also be reminded that they have obligations to the people and cannot leave all responsibilities to one individual.

Ultimately, leadership should be judged by both intention and impact, both visible achievements and long-term influence. Hon. Muktari Aliyu Betara may have his errors and shortcomings, but those limitations do not cancel his contributions. A leader can fail in one area and still succeed in several others. The proper response is not to reduce him to a local champion or portray him as incapable of leadership, but to recognize his wider role while demanding continued improvement.

For this reason, Hon. Betara deserves respect, constructive criticism, and encouragement. He should not be expected to do everything, but he should be urged to do more where genuine needs exist. His accomplishments should be acknowledged, his weaknesses should be addressed, and his actions should remain open to public scrutiny. That is the essence of responsible citizenship and effective leadership.

• James Bwala, PhD, writes from Maiduguri.

Beyond Politics: The Betara Leadership Question – An Independent Assessment of Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu

Thousands Roar as Engr. Gubio Welcomes Residents at APC 2027 Campaign Flag-Off in Borno

By: Dr. James Bwala

The atmosphere in Borno was charged with excitement as thousands of residents gathered to welcome Governor Zulum and his successor, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, as well as other leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the flag-off of the party’s 2027 campaign in the state. The event was marked by songs, dances, cheers, and expressions of confidence in the party’s leadership. Beyond the celebration, however, the gathering carried a more profound message: the people of Borno are demanding unity, grassroots participation, continuity, and purposeful leadership as the state prepares for another important political season.

From the moment Engr. Gubio arrived, and residents responded with extraordinary enthusiasm. Men, women, young people, community leaders, and party supporters cheered, sang, and danced in anticipation of the speeches and declarations that followed. Their welcome demonstrated more than political excitement. It reflected a strong emotional connection between the people and a leadership vision that they believe can protect the progress already achieved while addressing the challenges that remain.

The event became even more significant when Engr. Gubio and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum mounted the podium. Gubio and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum mounted the podium. Gubio and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum mounted the podium. Gubio and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum mounted the podium. Gubio and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum mounted the podium. Their appearance generated loud applause and renewed chants of victory. The crowd’s reaction revealed the level of confidence many residents have placed in the APC leadership. In their speeches, the leaders called for unity, discipline, and a stronger connection with the grassroots. They reminded supporters that electoral victory is not secured by slogans alone but through organization, consultation, service, and constant engagement with the people.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

The call for unity is particularly important in a state such as Borno, which has experienced serious social, economic, and security challenges. For many years, citizens have endured the effects of insecurity, displacement, disrupted livelihoods, and limited access to essential services. These difficulties require a political culture that prioritizes cooperation rather than division. Political differences are normal in a democracy, but they should not be allowed to weaken the collective determination to build a safer, more prosperous, and more united Borno.

The APC flag-off therefore offered an opportunity to remind citizens that development cannot be achieved when communities are divided against one another. The strength of Borno lies in its diversity, resilience, and shared identity. From urban centers to rural communities, citizens have a common interest in peace, education, employment, infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and economic opportunity. A united electorate is better positioned to demand responsible leadership and to support programs that benefit the wider population rather than a narrow group.

Engr. Gubio’s warm interaction with residents also underlined the importance of grassroots politics. A successful government must understand the realities of ordinary people. Policies designed in offices and announced from platforms can only succeed when they respond to the everyday experiences of families, farmers, traders, students, workers, and vulnerable citizens. Grassroots engagement allows leaders to hear directly from the people, identify urgent needs, and evaluate whether government programs are producing meaningful results.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

This approach should not be limited to campaign periods. Political leaders must maintain regular contact with communities before, during, and after elections. They must visit local areas, consult traditional and religious leaders, listen to youth and women, and create channels through which residents can express concerns. Grassroots politics should be understood as a commitment to inclusion and accountability, not merely as a strategy for winning votes.

The enthusiasm witnessed at the campaign flag-off provides a strong foundation for this engagement. However, enthusiasm must be converted into practical action. Supporters who filled the venue with songs and dances are not simply an audience; they are stakeholders in the future of the state. Their support should encourage the APC leadership to remain accessible, transparent, and responsive. In turn, supporters must participate constructively by promoting peace, rejecting hate speech, and holding their leaders to the promises made during the campaign.

Governor Zulum’s participation added weight to the gathering. His administration has become associated with reconstruction, rehabilitation, resettlement, and efforts to restore public confidence after years of insecurity. While no administration can solve every challenge immediately, the continuity of policies that address the needs of affected communities is essential. Abrupt changes in direction can slow development, waste resources, and undermine programs that require sustained attention.

This is why the prospect of continued APC leadership has attracted considerable public interest. Continuity does not mean refusing to improve or ignoring criticism. Rather, it means preserving successful initiatives while correcting weaknesses and introducing new solutions where necessary. Gubio was described as a responsible successor who understands the achievements of the current administration, learns from its limitations, and is ready to build on its foundation.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

The declaration of hope from the podium was therefore significant. Hope is not an empty political word when it is connected to a clear program and measurable objectives. For Borno’s citizens, hope means safer communities, functional schools, stronger hospitals, better roads, expanded economic opportunities, and a government that treats every citizen with dignity. It means that displaced families can return to their homes with confidence, young people can find meaningful opportunities, and women can participate fully in economic and civic life.

Hope must also be supported by realistic planning. The next administration will face complex demands, including the continued need for security, reconstruction, humanitarian support, job creation, and diversification of the state’s economy. Agriculture, livestock, commerce, technology, vocational training, and small businesses should receive sustained attention. A state with a large population of young people must create avenues for them to develop skills and contribute productively to society.

The 2027 election will therefore be more than a contest between political parties. It will be a decision about the direction Borno should take in the coming years. Voters will have to examine the records, programs, character, and capacity of the candidates presented to them. They should not be influenced solely by political excitement, personal attacks, or temporary promises. Democratic participation is strongest when citizens are informed and when campaigns focus on issues that affect their lives. That is the clear message from Gubio. 

Zulum said APC has an opportunity to present a compelling case to the people. The party can point to its experience in managing the state during difficult times, its commitment to reconstruction, and its emphasis on security and development. However, he observed that it must also recognise that voters expect more than celebration. They expect results. They want leaders who will reduce poverty, strengthen public institutions, improve basic services, and ensure that development reaches communities across the state thus, his choice of a worthy successor for the 2027 gubernatorial election for Borno state. .

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

The songs and dances at the flag-off symbolized confidence, but they also carried a responsibility. Political leaders should interpret the crowd’s support as a mandate to work harder, not as permission to become complacent. The people of Borno have shown that they are willing to stand with leaders who demonstrate commitment. In return, those leaders must prove that their loyalty is to the people and to the long-term progress of the state.

Unity will remain central to achieving these goals. The APC campaign should reach beyond existing party supporters and speak to citizens who may have different political opinions. A government is responsible for everyone, including those who did not vote for it. Campaign language should therefore be inclusive, respectful, and focused on shared aspirations. Division may produce short-term political advantage, but unity produces lasting development.

The role of young people in the 2027 campaign will also be decisive. Youths are not merely mobilizers at rallies; they are the future leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, innovators, and public servants of Borno. They should be encouraged to participate in policy discussions, voter education, community development, and peaceful political activities. Their energy must be directed toward constructive engagement rather than manipulation or violence.

Women, too, must be fully included in the political process. Their experiences often give valuable insight into the effects of insecurity, poverty, displacement, and inadequate public services. Greater participation of women in party structures, decision-making, and elected positions would strengthen representation and improve the quality of governance.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

As the campaign progresses, all political actors have a duty to preserve peace. Borno has suffered enough from violence and instability. No electoral ambition is worth destroying the lives, property, and relationships of citizens. Candidates, supporters, traditional authorities, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and security agencies must work together to ensure that political competition remains peaceful. The 2027 elections should demonstrate that Borno can disagree politically while remaining united socially.

The reception given to Engr. Gubio and the response to Governor Zulum’s address indicate that the APC has begun its campaign with considerable momentum. Yet the real test will be whether that momentum can be transformed into a disciplined, issue-based, and people-centered movement. The party must continue to engage the grassroots, present credible plans, welcome constructive criticism, and maintain internal unity.

For the people, the campaign offers an opportunity to participate actively in shaping the state’s future. They should attend political meetings, ask questions, compare programs, and vote according to their understanding of the issues. They should also resist attempts to use poverty, ethnicity, religion, or insecurity to manipulate their choices. The power of democracy rests with citizens who vote wisely and remain vigilant after elections.

The APC flag-off in Borno has shown that political campaigns can inspire optimism and renew public confidence. The cheering crowds, vibrant songs, and energetic dances reflected a desire for progress and a belief that the state can achieve greater stability and development. The message from the podium was clear: unity, grassroots engagement, and purposeful leadership must guide the journey to victory in 2027.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

Engr. Gubio’s interaction with residents and the strong presence of Governor Zulum created a moment of political symbolism, but the significance of the event will ultimately depend on what follows. Victory should not be treated as an end in itself. It should be understood as a responsibility to serve, protect, and develop the people. If the APC can sustain its connection with the grassroots, build on existing achievements, address shortcomings, and remain committed to inclusive governance, it will have a strong argument before the electorate.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Maiduguri.

Thousands Roar as Engr. Gubio Welcomes Residents at APC 2027 Campaign Flag-Off in Borno

Borno APC 2027: Betara’s Wisdom and Generosity Take Centre Stage at Campaign Council Inauguration

By: Dr James Bwala

The inauguration of the Borno State APC 2027 Campaign Council was more than a political event. It was a demonstration of leadership, responsibility, and renewed commitment to the people. Among the most memorable moments was the speech delivered by Rt Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu, member representing Biu, Kwaya Kusar, Bayo, and Shani Federal Constituency. His words of wisdom, practical counsel, and generous donations resonated deeply with the crowd, earning him a standing ovation and further strengthening his reputation as a compassionate and visionary leader.

Betara’s intervention came at a critical time. As the All Progressives Congress prepares for the 2027 elections, the party must do more than celebrate its past achievements. It must rebuild trust, reconnect with citizens, and mobilise support from the grassroots. Recognising this reality, Muktari Betara urged the newly inaugurated campaign council to return to the people, reconcile with those who feel neglected or disappointed, and restore confidence in the party’s leadership. His message was both timely and necessary.

Political campaigns are often conducted through rallies, promises, and publicity. However, successful campaigns are built on relationships with the people. The electorate wants to be heard, respected, and included in the political process. Betara’s advice to return to the grassroots reflects an understanding that political strength does not come only from party offices or public ceremonies. It comes from the confidence of ordinary citizens in villages, towns, wards, and local communities.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

The campaign council, therefore, has a responsibility that goes beyond organising events. It must listen to the people and understand their concerns. It must identify those who are unhappy with the party and engage them honestly. It must address grievances, correct misunderstandings, and demonstrate that the APC remains committed to the welfare of the people. Reconciliation should not be treated as a political slogan. It must be pursued as a deliberate strategy for rebuilding unity and restoring confidence.

Betara’s call for reconciliation is especially important in a political environment where divisions can easily weaken a party. Political disagreements are normal, but they become dangerous when they are ignored. When party members feel excluded or abandoned, they may withdraw their support or work against the party’s interests. A responsible leadership must recognise these concerns and respond with humility. By urging the campaign council to reconcile with those who are hurting, Betara reminded the party that leadership requires patience, empathy, and the willingness to correct mistakes.

His advice also carried a broader message about collective responsibility. The 2027 election will not be won by one individual or one group alone. It will require the cooperation of party leaders, elected representatives, campaign officials, traditional institutions, youth groups, women’s organisations, community leaders, and ordinary party members. Every stakeholder has a role to play in building a strong and united campaign structure.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

Betara specifically emphasised the need to bring back the numbers—not only for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, but also for the governorship aspiration of Engr. Mustapha Gubio and other candidates contesting elective offices. This perspective demonstrates a clear understanding of the importance of coordinated political support. A successful presidential campaign depends on strong local structures, just as the success of governorship and legislative candidates depends on the wider popularity of the party.

The APC must therefore approach the 2027 election as one united team. Support for the presidential ticket should go hand in hand with support for the governorship candidate and candidates for the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly. Where party members work at cross-purposes, the party’s overall strength is reduced. But where all candidates and supporters share a common purpose, the party becomes more organised, more persuasive, and more capable of mobilising voters.

Betara’s contribution to the event went beyond words. His donation of fifty million naira each to support the campaign effort of contestants for the House of Representatives was a powerful demonstration of personal commitment to both the party and the people. At a time when political campaigns require substantial resources, such a donation can provide meaningful support for mobilisation, logistics, communication, and engagement with communities. More importantly, the donation conveyed a message: leaders must be prepared to invest in the causes they publicly support.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

His additional donation of twenty million naira each to members seeking reelection to the State House of Assembly was equally significant. Those seeking reelection often face serious financial and organisational challenges. They must defend their records, maintain contact with constituents, and compete in a demanding political environment. By extending support to his colleagues, Betara showed that leadership is not merely about securing one’s own position. It is also about helping others succeed when their success contributes to the strength of the party and the development of the community.

The reaction of the crowd reflected the impact of his gesture. The donation was greeted with a roar, demonstrating that the people appreciated not only the amount involved but also the spirit behind it. In an era when many citizens are increasingly sceptical of political promises, concrete assistance can make a powerful impression. Betara’s donation was viewed as an example of practical leadership—one that transforms public declarations into measurable action.

However, the significance of Betara’s gesture should not be reduced to its monetary value. The deeper importance lies in the principle it represents. Political leadership should be about service, solidarity, and responsibility. A leader who supports colleagues, encourages unity, and responds to the needs of the people creates confidence within the political family. Such leadership inspires loyalty not through coercion, but through trust and goodwill.

Betara’s calm resolve also distinguished him. He did not present himself as a man seeking personal praise. Instead, he focused on the broader task of strengthening the party and supporting his colleagues. His approach was measured, respectful, and purposeful. In a political culture often characterised by confrontation and self-promotion, this calm disposition sends an important message. Effective leadership does not always require loud declarations. Sometimes, it is expressed through thoughtful advice, generosity, and consistent action.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

This explains why his intervention has continued to attract attention across Borno State and on social media platforms. Many people have described him as a pride and hero of the people because they see in him a combination of representation, compassion, and political maturity. His popularity is connected not only to the office he occupies but also to the manner in which he uses his influence. A representative becomes truly respected when constituents and colleagues perceive that he is accessible, dependable, and willing to share both opportunities and responsibilities.

The enthusiasm surrounding Betara should also encourage other political leaders to reflect on the standards expected of public officeholders. Citizens want leaders who understand their struggles and are willing to act. They want representatives who can provide direction during difficult moments and build bridges when disagreements emerge. They expect leaders to defend the interests of their communities while contributing to the development of the wider political system.

At the same time, the campaign council must ensure that Betara’s message is translated into a clear and sustained programme of action. Returning to the grassroots should involve regular consultations with communities, transparent engagement with party members, and deliberate efforts to include groups that may feel marginalised. Reconciliation should be supported by genuine dialogue, not merely temporary political arrangements. The people must see evidence that their concerns are being taken seriously.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

The council should also develop a communication strategy that explains the party’s achievements, acknowledges areas where improvement is needed, and presents a credible vision for the future. Voters are more likely to support a political organisation that speaks honestly and offers practical solutions. Campaign messages should address issues such as security, education, healthcare, employment, agriculture, infrastructure, and economic opportunity. Mobilisation without substance may generate temporary excitement, but sustainable support requires trust in the party’s plans and leadership.

In addition, party leaders must recognise the importance of young people and women in the 2027 election. These groups represent a substantial part of the electorate and should not be treated merely as instruments of campaign mobilisation. They should be involved in decision-making, given meaningful responsibilities, and supported in their political ambitions. A campaign council that is inclusive, organised, and responsive will be better positioned to connect with the electorate.

Betara’s donation to candidates seeking reelection also highlights the importance of continuity in representation. Legislators who have served their constituents effectively deserve the opportunity to present their records and seek renewed mandates. Their experience can contribute to stability and stronger legislative performance. Nevertheless, reelection should always be accompanied by accountability. Candidates must return to the people, explain what they have achieved, acknowledge shortcomings, and present realistic plans for the future.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

Ultimately, the standing ovation Betara received was a response to more than a speech or a financial contribution. It was an expression of public appreciation for leadership that combines words with action. His counsel addressed the political needs of the moment, while his donations demonstrated personal commitment to the success of the party and its candidates. Together, these actions created a powerful impression among the people of Borno.

The 2027 election will require unity, discipline, organisation, and a sincere connection with the electorate. The APC cannot depend solely on incumbency, past victories, or political structures. It must earn the confidence of the people again and again. Betara’s message provides a useful roadmap: return to the grassroots, reconcile with the dissatisfied, support one another, and mobilise collectively for all candidates.

If the campaign council follows this direction, the party will be better prepared to secure support for President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima, advance the governorship ambition of Engr. Mustapha Gubio, and promote its candidates for the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly. More importantly, it will demonstrate that political leadership can be guided by responsibility, compassion, and service.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-apc-fires-up-2027-campaign-the-mandate-is-clear-deliver-the-numbers/

Betara’s conduct at the inauguration has therefore set an important example. His words challenged the party to reconnect with the people, while his generosity challenged leaders to support one another.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Maiduguri.

Borno APC 2027: Betara’s Wisdom and Generosity Take Centre Stage at Campaign Council Inauguration