Special Report: When Governor Zulum announces government plans to employ 50 youths each across 27 local governments in Borno

By: Dr. James Bwala

The Borno State governor, Professor Babagana Umar Zulum, on Tuesday said that his administration is considering the employment of 50 youths being used as political supporters from each local government council of the state. 

Speaking at the Palace of the Emir of Biu in the south, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum made this profound announcement that carries the potential to transform the socio-political landscape of Borno State. His declaration—that the government will soon employ 50 youths from each of the 27 local government areas into the civil service—addresses an urgent challenge faced by the region: the exploitation of youth as foot soldiers and their manipulation for unscrupulous political purposes. 

This initiative not only promises to provide gainful employment but also seeks to dismantle the cycle of violence and disenfranchisement that has long plagued the youth of Borno. It is imperative to support and implement this policy fully, as it offers a viable pathway toward sustainable peace, economic development, and political stability in the region.

The governor said the issue of youth unemployment in Borno State is both a symptom and a catalyst of broader social instability. The region has endured years of violent conflict, largely fueled by insurgent groups who exploit the vulnerabilities of idle and disenfranchised youths. Many young individuals, deprived of legitimate opportunities, have been coerced or enticed into serving as foot soldiers, perpetuating cycles of violence that devastate communities and hinder progress. 

He said by creating structured and formal employment opportunities through civil service roles, the government directly addresses one of the root causes of this unrest: the lack of meaningful engagement and economic empowerment for youths.

Governor Zulum’s strategy reflects a nuanced comprehension of the socio-political dynamics in Borno. Recognizing that many youths are manipulated for political ends, he aims to offer them not just jobs, but a dignified role within the governance system itself. This inclusion promotes a sense of ownership and responsibility among young people, which is critical for nurturing a generation that values peace, governance, and democratic principles.

“When youths see tangible benefits from engaging with the state apparatus, their incentives to participate in violent or unscrupulous activities diminish significantly. In this way, employment becomes a form of preventive diplomacy, transforming potential adversaries into stakeholders in the state’s progress,” Zulum said. 

Critically, the policy’s design to distribute employment opportunities evenly across all 27 local government areas is a masterstroke of inclusiveness and equity. Borno State is ethnically and culturally diverse, and any developmental policy must reflect this diversity to avoid exacerbating existing tensions. By employing youths from every local government area, the government promotes balanced development and fosters unity across communities. 

“This equitable allocation improves social cohesion and strengthens the legitimacy of government actions in the eyes of its citizens. It sends a clear message that no group is marginalized and that the benefits of peace and prosperity are shared collectively.” The governor stressed. 

He observed that the envisaged employment drive has the potential to strengthen public institutions in Borno by infusing them with youthful energy, innovation, and commitment. 

However, opponents might argue that such a large-scale employment program could strain the state’s financial resources or that it might not adequately address the deep-seated issues beyond unemployment, such as education deficits and infrastructural decay. While these concerns merit attention, they do not diminish the value of Governor Zulum’s initiative. Employment is a critical gateway to addressing other developmental challenges. With stable incomes, employed youths can invest in themselves and their families, pursue further education, and contribute to local economies. 

Additionally, the reduction in violence and unrest that results from such employment programs can create a more conducive environment for rebuilding infrastructure and expanding educational access. Thus, the policy should be regarded as a foundational element within a broader multi-sectoral approach aimed at holistic development.

The timing of this employment initiative is particularly crucial. Borno State is at a crossroads, emerging from years of conflict but still grappling with its aftereffects. The social fabric remains fragile, and the potential for relapse into violence persists if structural problems remain unaddressed. Governor Zulum’s commitment to integrating marginalized youths into the civil service symbolizes hope and a forward-looking vision. It demonstrates proactive leadership willing to confront difficult realities and invest in human capital as the bedrock of peace and progress.

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s announcement to employ 50 youths from each local government area into Borno’s civil service is a bold and commendable strategy that promises to address multiple challenges faced by the state. By providing meaningful employment, the government tackles youth unemployment head-on, reduces the manipulation of young people for violent or political ends, and fosters greater social cohesion through inclusive development. 

The initiative stands to rejuvenate public administration and catalyze broader socioeconomic transformation. It is essential that all stakeholders—including community leaders, civil society, and development partners—rally behind this effort to ensure its success. With sustained commitment and collaborative action, Borno State can harness the potential of its youth as architects of peace and drivers of development, paving the way for a more stable and prosperous future

• James Bwala, PhD, writes from Maiduguri.
• Special Report: When Governor Zulum announces government plans to employ 50 youths each across 27 local governments in Borno