National News
Special features: Borno Health sector, why Zulum is in a hurry to move it to the next level
Special features: Borno Health sector, why Zulum is in a hurry to move it to the next level
By: Bodunrin Kayode
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno state is a man of many parts as he has displayed in his handling of ministries departments and agencies (MDA’s)
of government since inception.
One area he has displayed very empathetic and competent tendencies for his people is the health sector. From the onset this academic turned politician left no one in doubt that he was ready to turn around this critical sector battered by war to a much more service oriented one. He pays specific attention like a father who wants the facilities to be good enough for his immediate family members to receive treatments long after he has left office.
His midnight visits to General hospitals in Borno State to see who is sincerely working for the people or not is an indication that he is not ready to tolerate mediocrity for any reason. Apart from that he had already drafted a ten points agenda of which revamping of the health sector was one of the strong pillars and was going to follow it to the letter. These acts of leadership by example manifested in the very early days of his reign as Governor.
With these leadership actions by visiting hospitals were the most vulnerable receive treatments to get better, he endeared himself to many residents in the state. Some medical workers started wondering if the Professor turned politician slept at night or not. This was because most times he will show up at such wee hours to inspect the register of attendees himself and take special note of their basic challenges. Many of them who never took their call duties important started adjusting because Zulum could appear by 2 am the next morning to check him out. It was obvious a new sheriff was in town and everyone in the medical team must be serious or face the hard music for dereliction of duties.
This to many observers is a major achievement in a war torn sub national economy where the health sector was not spared by the aggressors who destroyed the entire infrastructure of at least 22 out of 27 council areas. Both the primary and secondary sub sectors were rendered useless due to lack of basic infrastructure and manpower. It was like starting all over when Zulum took over and his night visits allowed him to see things for himself and correcting same the following day or week. Many of the secondary hospitals which used to survive on touch lights were given instant solar panels and batteries to keep them out of darkness.
Consequently, before the end of his first term, Governor Zulum knew he had to hurry up to fix most of these infrastructure which were brought down so that the people will benefit from them. By the end of his first term, a lot of primary and secondary facilities had been built in areas were they were non existent before now. And within the last two years, he has set the foundation for a state teaching hospital to come on stream at least for the first set of medical students of the Borno State University (BOSU) to acquire practical experience from cadaver to real patients. The maiden board has been created for the State Teaching hospitality and the respected Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) Professor Ahmed Ahidjo was appointed the chair.
Professor Ibrahim Kida was appointed the maiden chief medical director of the facility located at the jimtilo area of greater Maiduguri. Professor Kida is a Fellow of the West African College of Physicians, Senior Registrar West African College of Physicians, and Registrar West African College of Physicians, specialising in infectious diseases and epidemiology with a special interest in HIV/AIDS management. Alongside Prof Kida, Zulum appointed Professor Usman Tela as Chairman Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC). Similarly, Ali Mohammed was appointed Director of Administration of the Hospital and Secretary to the Management Board. Other members of the management board include a representative of the Ministry of Health; a representative of the Medical College, BOŞU; representative of the Senate, Borno State University; representative of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA); representative of the Allied Health Professionals in Borno; representative of the UMTH, and a representative of the Vice Chancellor, Borno State University. Others include Abba Marte, Samson Dibal, and Dr Musa Aji, who will represent the public interest from the three senatorial districts of Borno State. A statement then by the spokesman of the Governor Dauda Ilya quoted Zulum as saying, “Our goal is to provide our people with the best possible healthcare while also training the next generation of medical professionals.” Off course, the appointment of Professor Kida as the first CMD is a landmark because this is a man who gave his all during the covid infection years. When many thought that covid was a clear death sentence and should be avoided, Kida gave his life at the UMTH to ensure that residents of the state were well and alive. He was the live wire of the state that period because many people who should have gone to the great beyond are still alive today.
Without mincing words, obviously this is the only way to set the foundation of his own man power base which has eluded the state long before the beginning of insurgency. The appointment of Profs Ahmed Ahidjo and Ibrahim Kida is one of the best decision taken by Prof Babagana Zulum.
Primary Healthcare Sub Sector
Two years into his second term, some residents spoken to by this reporter stated that they were comfortable with the new arrangements in which solar powered primary health centres are now located in their areas. Some of them called on the Governor to bring in foreign doctors to assist at this critical primary level to ease the stress on the secondary sub sector.
They however commended him for the increase in primary health centres at almost every ward of municipal (mmc) and jere council areas of greater Maiduguri. A typical example was the building of an ultramodern primary health centre in Wulari and many other areas within greater Maiduguri which has the highest population because it still houses residents who came to stay with relatives due to the lingering insurgent war and have not gone back.
To further demonstrate his seriousness in taking the primary facilities to every council area in the state, the government has established six new Primary Healthcare Centers ( PHC) at Milda (Kwaya Kusar), Diyar (Kwaya Kusar), Ngwa (Hawul), Danbitam (Bayo), BOSU and MCH Kwaya.
Complete renovation has also taken place in 44 PHC and 3 Maternal Health Centers in 14 LGAs. They include: Mbulatawiwi, Kwajjafa-harang, FSP Askira, Jaradali, Jaragol, Teli, Gumsuri, Gora, Kubo, Lakundum, Dr. Falmata Babagana Umar, Gwoza town, Benesheikh, Mainok, Furram, Hoyo, CBDA, Dalaram, Fori, Ngomari, Gongulong, Jiddari, Maimusari, Mashamari, Dalori, Njimtilo, Jakana, MCH Konduga, Mafa, Ngwom, Mala Kyariri, Abbaganram, Bulabulin, Fatima Ali Sheriff, Gamboru, Herwa Peace, Kaalmari, Mala Kachallah, Gwange I, Gamboru Main, Gwange III, Yerwa MCH, FSP Tandari and Maternal Health Centers at Magumeri, Gubio and Bama.
With these achievements due to the right leadership, simple ailments which some residents used to rush to secondary facilities like Umaru Shehu, General Hospital Biu and the state specialist hospital could now be handled easily at these primary levels.
The second most tormenting challenge the government was facing was recruiting the right human resource to maintain these facilities. Most of the doctors working to save lives were overstretched. Nurses had the non governmental organizations (NGO’s) daily dangling carrots at them to cross over. And hundreds of nurses have indeed crossed over in the last 15 years of lingering insurgency. In spite of that the Governor Professor Babagana Zulum has been encouraging them with mouth watering scholarships to enable them finish their training and start work.
To retain more doctors, special quarters like the Buba Marwa Doctor’s Quarter’s were built for them to stay. Leaving the service meant leaving the quarters. That alone was a major attraction to keep the doctors in the state service. The second attraction activated by Governor Zulum to keep the man power was the implementation of federal pay package for doctors. That was seen as a good move by observers and it has really helped to keep the doctors down in Borno.
Achievements in the secondary health sub sector
A lot has been achieved in this sub sector which needed infrastructure and man power. Some of it includes the establishment of 150 bed capacity General Hospital Damboa, completion of the reconstruction of General Hospitals in Azare (Hawul), Uba, Magumeri, Gubio and Mafa Borgu (Shani).
While waiting for the tertiary sub sector to take off fully, the specialist hospital located at the post office area of the centre of Maiduguri has been chewing a lot more than it can bite because of its strategic roles in the well being of residents of the state Capital and beyond. So as a result of this, tremendous developments has been taking place within the complex even after the flood of September 10th last year.
As part of the achievements of Governor Zulum in this specialist hospital, there is an on going construction of a 3 storey orthopedic ward for patients. Others include the consultant offices, conference room, complete renovation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (O&G) department (including the Labour ward and Theatre), Anesthetic dept, Pharmacy, Specialist Out Patient Department (including departmental consultants’ offices), surgical wards, Accident and Emergency (A&E) and maintenance units at State Specialist Hospital.
Others include: General renovation of Theaters, 7 Bedroom staff quarters at General hospital Ngala, two theaters, and seven bedroom at General Hospital Damasak, Maternity wing, staff quarters, wards, theaters, Pharmacy and Records office at General Hospital Gwoza and off course staff quarters at General Hospital Benisheikh.
To ensure efficiency in this sub sector the government had to purchase and install power supply facilities in many general hospitals where the lingering war had caused enormous damages to these facilities. Some include the installation of 100 KVA solar power supply to the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine at the specialist hospital, 77.5 KVA generators distributed across departments and units at State Specialist Hospital, 70 KVA generator at Mamman Shuwa Memorial Hospital, 40 KVA generator each at Brigadier Abba Kyari hospital, Maryam Abatcha Women and Children Hospital, Nganzai, Ngala, Mafa, Konduga, Gwoza and
Bama General Hospitals, 75 KVA generator at Damasak and 25 KVA at Rann.
Further procurement and supply of equipment was made in the Hematology, Histopathology, Labour and Theater departments. Supply of dialysis reagents and consumables were also made to the Abdulkadir Aliyu Kidney Center in the State Specialist Hospital where dialysis is still free. During the period under review supply was made of clinical equipment, office furniture at Mamman Shuwa Memorial Hospital and procurement, installation of
manual X-ray machines at Ngala, Gwoza, Mobbar, Biu, Askira, Monguno and Rann General Hospitals.
Again to boast power supply in the absence of supplies from the grid, installation of solar power system was made at Umaru Shehu Ultra-Modern Hospital Maiduguri.
End
Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas
By:Michael Mike
The federal government has granted five months amnesty for regularisation of expired visas to allow travellers comply with the new visa regime.
A statement at the weekend by the public relations officer of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Akinsola Akinlabi said the amnesty would also reinforce a secure and transparent migration system.
The statement read: “The federal government through the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Immigration Service, announces an Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty).
“This initiative provides a unique window for foreigners currently residing in Nigeria with expired immigration status to regularize their stay without facing penalties.”
He disclosed in the statement that the initiative, which commenced on 1st May 2025, would run through to 30th September 2025.
He further announced that the amnesty specifically apply to individuals who have either overstayed their visas or violated their visa conditions.
He gave the categories of those affected as: Foreign nationals with Expired Visa on Arrival (VoA); Holders of Expired Single and Multiple-Entry Visas and; Individuals with an Expired Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC), where renewal has exceeded 30 days post-expiration.
Akinlabi urged all affected foreign nationals to promptly regularize their stay through
(https://amnesty.immigration.gov.ng) within the grace period to avoid overstay penalties.
He said, “To ensure the Amnesty application process is seamless, the Nigeria Immigration Service has assembled a support team to assist with Amnesty applications. Contact the support team via email at:amnesty@immigration.gov.ng
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains committed to facilitating lawful migration, safeguarding National Security, and promoting transparency and efficiency across all immigration processes.
“For further information kindly visit the Nigeria Immigration website www.immigration.gov.ng.”
Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas
National News
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
By: Zagazola Makama
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Army for its unflinching commitment to national unity, security, and sovereignty over the past 162 years, describing it as the “spine of Nigeria’s sovereignty” and a “symbol of unity and duty.”
Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, gave the commendation on Sunday at the grand finale of the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) held in Kaduna.
The President said the anniversary was not merely a ceremonial occasion, but a moment of solemn reflection, history, and collective gratitude to the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting the nation.
“This is not another entry in our calendar of commemorations. It is a time of reflection, a time of remembrance, and a time of profound appreciation,” he said.
“A nation is only as strong as the courage of those who defend it. And for 162 years, the Nigerian Army has remained the unbreakable spine of our sovereignty.”
The President recalled the Army’s historic role in bringing the Nigerian Civil War to an end, upholding the principle of national unity, quoting former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon’s immortal words: “No victor, no vanquished.”
He emphasized that the Nigerian Army has continued to carry the national flag high, not for conquest but for peace, and not for power but for principle — both at home and in global peacekeeping missions.
“We honour the enduring sacrifices of those who gave their lives in service, and those who continue to bear the uniform with pride and resolve. You are the sentinels of our democracy,” Tinubu said.
He expressed full support for this year’s theme, “Developing the Soldier-Based Concept: A Priority for Nigerian Army’s Transformational Drive,” describing it as visionary and timely.
“You cannot build a great army without building strong soldiers. Their welfare, morale, equipment and sense of purpose are not afterthoughts; they are the bedrock of national security,” he said.
The President praised the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for prioritising the welfare of troops and placing the soldier at the heart of institutional reform.
Tinubu acknowledged the numerous security challenges confronting the country, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and separatist agitations, which he described as existential threats that demand a united and resolute response.
“These evils do not discriminate by tribe or religion. They destroy churches and mosques alike. They abduct children without asking how they worship,” he said.
“Our response must be united, calm, and uncompromising. And to the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I say this clearly: the time to rise is now. You have my full authorization and the trust of the Nigerian people to confront and defeat those who seek to undermine our nation.”
The President paid tribute to fallen soldiers, some of whom now lie in the soil of a grateful nation, and others who carry the wounds of battle.
“To the families they left behind, I extend the deepest sympathies of a nation that will never forget. Their memory will endure for generations,” he said.
He urged serving personnel to continue in honour, guided by the Constitution and the principles of international law, saying their courage must remain anchored in justice.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, training, and operational capability of the Armed Forces.
“We will continue to invest in modern equipment, in intelligence, and in the human capital that drives your effectiveness. This is not a favour; it is a duty owed to those who defend us,” he said.
He further commended the Armed Forces’ synergy, especially with the Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies, in tackling complex national threats.
Tinubu reminded all Nigerians that securing the country is not the burden of the military alone, but the responsibility of every citizen.
“We have no other country but Nigeria, and we must not mortgage our future to division, indifference, or delay. Nation-building is the work of every leader, every institution, and every citizen,” he stated.
In his closing remarks, Tinubu saluted all officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, past and present, describing them as “the guardians of our nationhood and the shield of our democracy.”
“Long live the Nigerian Army. Long live the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he declared.
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
UN Agency Gives USD 395,000 to 39 Land Restoration Projects Worldwide
By: Michael Mike
In a decisive step to reverse land degradation, 39 land restoration projects led by grassroots organisations have been awarded USD 395,000 through the inaugural Small Grants Programme of the G20 Global Land Initiative (GLI), a flagship initiative of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).
Drawn from 22 countries, the winning projects were selected for their innovation, impact and sustainability. Over 650 organisations from more than 100 countries applied for the award. The winners were selected following three rounds of review by separate UNCCD staff teams, with varied expertise in land management and restoration.
Awardees will receive between US$5,000 and US$15,000 to fund grassroots efforts that boost local economies, improve food and water security and strengthen ecosystem resilience.
The announcement was livestreamed at an event showcasing the grant winners.
The Small Grants Programme is an important tool for achieving the G20 GLI’s mission of reducing degraded land by 50 percent by 2040.
Speaking during the award ceremony, Director of the G20 Global Land Initiative,Dr. Muralee Thummarukudy, said: “We are aware that these big numbers, cannot be achieved by small initiatives alone. Yet, we feel, it is important that tens of thousands of small actors, engaged in land restoration around the world, be supported, promoted and recognized,”
Special priority was given to organisations accredited to UNCCD and to projects empowering Indigenous Peoples, youth, women and the elderly.
The programme was set up in 2024 to support community-level non-profit organisations worldwide. According to a statement, by directly supporting civil society and grassroot actors, these grants will generate measurable progress across global aided restoration priorities, such as soil fertility enhancement, forest regeneration, sustainable agriculture, agroecology and ecosystem-based adaptation.
The statement added that beyond reclaiming land, the projects are enhancing livelihoods, strengthening community climate resilience, and fostering social enterprise and eco-preneurship.
“When we do these small grants program, it is not just about the grant. It’s about the network which we create and the visibility it provides — both for those within it and those outside who can benefit from their knowledge and experience,” Thummarukudy added.
Three of the highest-scoring projects were showcased at the UNCCD Conference of the Parties held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in December 2024, to highlight their potential for scaling and replication across regions.
The statement also revealed that winners will also be showcased at select high-level events in the future, stating that the G20 GLI is committed to inclusive and continuous engagement, and is exploring future
collaboration opportunities for the applicants not selected in this round.
Stressing that “this is just the beginning, this will be an annual process, the next cohort is about to start,” Dr Thummarukudy invited community organisations doing land restoration to apply to join the network because both “big and small” [efforts] are important.
He noted that the second call for applications will open in 2025 with increased funding and expanded
support for grassroots restoration efforts worldwide.
Innovative community-led restoration initiatives are essential for creating green jobs, especially for youth and women..The awards provide support that can transform restoration into a catalyst for economic opportunity and sustainable environmental management.
Examples of selected 2024 grantees include: Legacy of War Foundation (Rwanda), which will restore six hectares of degraded soil while empowering 90 women as landowners of fully organic cooperative farms. By integrating climate-smart and artisanal farming methods, the project aims to improve soil fertility and agricultural resilience in post-conflict rural communities.
Up2Green Foundation (India) is restoring mangroves and riverbanks in Tamil Nadu, India. The project is reforesting 60 hectares and planting 15,000 fruit trees, enhancing biodiversity, strengthening coastal resilience for flood prevention, and training local communities in sustainable agroforestry practices.
Sustainability and Environmental Studies Endeavor (Nepal) is working to restore
ecological balance along the mythological Nagaraj Trail. By revitalizing degraded farms, wetlands and forests using nature-based solutions, the project promotes nature-inclusive agriculture and convivial conservation approaches.
The G20 Global Land Initiative was launched in 2020 under the Saudi G20 Presidency. Hosted by the UNCCD, its ambition is to reduce degraded land by 50 percent by 2040. By showcasing
land restoration, empowering civil society, engaging the private sector and building capacity, G20 GLI is driving restoration to scale and energizing a restoration economy. The Small Grants Programme is a key component of this vision, empowering civil society to restore degraded lands and promote sustainable land management at scale.
UN Agency Gives USD 395,000 to 39 Land Restoration Projects Worldwide
Zulum Condoles Residents of Malam Fatori over Recent Attack
Five months amnesty granted for regularisation of expired visas
Tinubu hails Nigerian Army’s role in defending national unity at 162nd anniversary celebration
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