News

Zulumification Of Borno Governance

Published

3 days ago

January 1, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Zulumification Of Borno Governance

Uncommon spirit drives Zulum to do much more than the over 1000 touchable accomplishments he showcases

By Dauda Iliya

It is very striking to observe every elected public office holder across the three tiers government in Nigeria delivering purposeful accomplishments according to his or her political party’s manifesto and overall critical needs and aspirations of the entity he or she is elected to serve.

It is, however, more striking at this stage of democratic governance in Nigeria to observe the zest that fuels the elected public office holder to deliver the accomplishments with an astounding capacity and commitment according to every emerging crucial imperatives in the affairs of the entity he serves.

Delivering the service the people yearn for according to every emerging situations, and with the degree of gusto required for the achievement of the quality and quantity of the service delivered, are what should stand an elected public servant out of the pack.

This stands Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Umara Zulum, solidly out, like the iconic Zuma Rock in the rocky and hilly terrain encircling Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory.

The professor of Agricultural Engineering ascended the governorship position in May, 2019 with a 10 pact agenda. He glided into the second tenure of his eight-year gubernatorial stint after winning his return-bid election in 2023.

He came into the second term with a strategic target of post-conflict recovery through the 25-year development plan and 10- year strategic initiatives.

In the last five and a half years of his administration, Zulum has implemented over 1,200 legacy projects in critical sectors of security, education, healthcare, housing and infrastructure, transportation

The most-astounding style of Prof Zulum’s governance is not even the exceptionally-soaring list of concrete accomplishments he showcases, in satisfaction of the critical needs of his about seven million terrorized and vulnerable Bornoans, but the sheer spirit that has driven him to strive to achieve a higher feat, unsatisfied with however long the list of enviable accomplishments he proudly showcases.

The soaring list of touchable accomplishments, and the smouldering gusto to do much more, has earned him national and global acclaim as an exemplar with regard to the reconstruction and repositioning of a terror-ravaged entity for the restoration of its eons-old enviable prosperity.

In the year 2024 that had just ended, Zulum recieved several prestigious awards including the Forbes Magazine African Leadership award for his outstanding and exemplary leadership qualities, integrity, innovation and impact driven projects.

This exceptional zest has unleashed him on his terrorized terrain, trotting around the state for the larger part of every year with the strength and vitality of the stallion, as the advertiser would say, ministering to the people, both according to the entire state’s collective critical needs, and according to the specific needs of every of its different sections.

Over the last five years since his ascension to the seat in 2019, Zulum has, through his masterstroke policies and programmes, treasured over 1,200 touchable projects, an unprecedented feat that seamlessly blends with the novel Borno Model of societal reconstruction, rehabilitation, resettlement and repositioning of over 200 communities displaced by the Boko Haram/ISWAP terror over the last 12 years at their ancestral locations; the de-radicalization of over 100,000 surrendered insurgents; and their subsequent reintegration in their home communities.

Over 30,000 model houses for the returnees have been build, constructed schools, healthcare facilities and public buildings which facilitate the voluntary return of over 1 million people to their ancestral homes.

With these, Prof Zulum has created a showpiece of democratic governance. With the marvelous blend of enviable accomplishments and the sheer zest to strive for more, he has not just raised the bar for whoever would succeed him as governor, but proudly stands out as a pathfinder in governance and a shining star among the state governors in the country’s current democratic experiment.

Succinctly put, Zulum is zulumifying governance in Borno State.

Like the mountain climber, he goes on the ropes governing the state with his toolkit containing his 10-pact Agenda, 25-year Development Plan and 5-year Strategic Development Plan as his potent instruments, strapped to his shoulders.

The uncommon spirit nourishing and driving his personality has always kept him calm and comported even in terrifying circumstances that normally scare public servants to succumb to pressures and challenges and, consequently, chicken out of capacity and desired performance.

If Prof Zulum convinces himself that he has to square up to any tall challenge on his way to console and comfort his dear vulnerable Bornoans in the remotest of communities, execution of any project or implementation of any policy, he is ever ready to take the hard way, if it is the only way, as the film maker would say.

He dares challenges on his way of discharging his duties and responsibilities, in the manner, not of Don Quixote fighting the wind mill, but of youthful David felling the towering Goliath of Gath with a sling.

Yes! With his uncommon spirit, he fells challenges on his way of discharging his constitutional duties and responsibilities to his people and state as would, David facing Goliath.

Moved by the spirit to deliver unprecedented service to his state, he displays the uncommon capacity to contain and control emerging tragedies while managing and assuaging existing ones.

He showcased this capacity recently when an epochal flood that deluged about a half of the Maiduguri metropolis, September 10, 2024, affected over one million people, displaced over 101, 330 households and destroying properties worth billions of Naira according to flood disaster relief committee.

While containing and mitigating the all-encompassing impact of the massive calamity to console, comfort, rehabilitate and resettle the affected population, Zulum still continues his normal all-year-round trotting around the state to minister to its different sections in the implementation of the reconstruction, rehabilitation, resettlement, de-radicalization, reintegration and repositioning policies and programmes of the state for rapid post-insurgency, post-flood recovery and prosperity.

As we usher in 2025, more landmark projects, resettlement of communities, livelihood intervention, sustainable growth and development will continue to take center stage of Zulum’s administration.

And so, Zulum is zulumifying governance in Borno State.

Dauda Iliya is the Special Adviser Media/Spokesperson to the Executive Governor of Borno State.

Zulumification Of Borno Governance

Related Topics:Borno Governance Zulumification

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News

Borno Federal Lawmaker Releases ₦17.8 Million to Civilian JTF, Village Heads, and District Heads in Jere LGA

Published

5 hours ago

January 4, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Borno Federal Lawmaker Releases ₦17.8 Million to Civilian JTF, Village Heads, and District Heads in Jere LGA

… Emphasizes Importance of Collaboration between CJTF and Traditional Leaders

By: Our Reporter

Rt. Hon. Engr Satomi Ahmad FNSE, the Member Representing Jere Federal Constituency, has disbursed ₦17.8 million during a one-day intensive security training program in Jere Local Government Area, Borno State.

The training, organized by the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) in collaboration with Jil Investment and General Concept Ltd, focused on “Controlling Jere Farming from Insurgency.” It convened key stakeholders, including Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) members, Village Heads, and District Heads, to enhance community security strategies.

In his address, Engr. Satomi emphasized the importance of grassroots-led security measures and commended local leaders and the CJTF for their unwavering efforts in maintaining stability. He stated, “Our communities must be equipped with the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to tackle security challenges effectively. This training is not only a learning platform but also a way of appreciating the sacrifices and dedication of our local security stakeholders.”

… Breakdown of Disbursement:

250 Civilian JTF members: ₦50,000 each
41 Village Heads: ₦100,000 each
6 District Heads: ₦200,000 each

Participants expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting its potential to foster collaboration, enhance proactive security measures, and ensure the safety of farming activities in the region.

Prominent dignitaries at the event included Hon. Abba Kyari Abba Kolo, Member of the Borno State House of Assembly (Jere), and Hon. Inna Galadima, Chairperson of Jere Local Government. This initiative is part of Engr. Satomi’s broader strategy to support local security efforts and promote peace and resilience in Jere.

Borno Federal Lawmaker Releases ₦17.8 Million to Civilian JTF, Village Heads, and District Heads in Jere LGA

Military

ARMY WAR COLLEGE NIGERIA DECORATES SIX NEWLY PROMOTED BRIGADIER GENERALS

Published

5 hours ago

January 4, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

ARMY WAR COLLEGE NIGERIA DECORATES SIX NEWLY PROMOTED BRIGADIER GENERALS

By: Saad Abdullahi

The Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) held a ceremony on Friday 3 January 2025, to decorate six of its officers recently elevated to the rank of Brigadier General. The event took place at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai Hall of the College, located in Asokoro, Abuja.

The newly promoted officers are Brigadier General IB Buhari, Brigadier General SBN Egbulem, Brigadier General AA Sambo, Brigadier General AU Abdul, Brigadier General AM Dikko, and Brigadier General MI Lemu.

In his remarks, the Commandant of AWCN, Major General Ishaya Maina, commended the newly promoted officers for their dedication, professionalism, and loyalty, which had earned them this significant career milestone. Addressing the promoted officers, he emphasized the weight of leadership and responsibility that accompanies their new rank.

Quoting General Norman Schwarzkopf, a revered U.S. Army Commander, General Maina remarked, “Leadership is a potent combination of strategy and character. But if you must be without one, be without the strategy.” He underscored the message by explaining that while strategic expertise is crucial, the character of a leader defines their ability to inspire trust and loyalty, especially in challenging circumstances.

He further reminded the officers of the purpose of rank and authority by quoting General Bruce C. Clarke: “Rank is given you to enable you to better serve those above and below you. It is not given for you to practice your idiosyncrasies.” General Maina elaborated on this, urging the newly decorated generals to view their promotion not as a privilege but as a call to greater service, accountability, and humility.

The Commandant also extended his gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his unwavering support of the College and for approving the promotions.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Director of Administration and Logistics AWCN, Brigadier General JN Garba, commended the officers’ exceptional achievements. He noted that these six individuals were part of the 73 colonels promoted by the Nigerian Army, who had been thoroughly assessed by the promotion board and deemed exemplary in character, military expertise, and dedication.

The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing Kwara Senatorial District; the Chief of Special Services and Programmes, Major General HT Wesley; and Major General DG Alu, among others.

ARMY WAR COLLEGE NIGERIA DECORATES SIX NEWLY PROMOTED BRIGADIER GENERALS

Education

VP SHETTIMA AT NASARAWA STATE VOCATIONAL INSTITUTE GRADUATION

Published

5 hours ago

January 4, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

VP SHETTIMA AT NASARAWA STATE VOCATIONAL INSTITUTE GRADUATION

Our Reforms Creating Employment Opportunities, Greater Economic Prospects
Flags off distribution of relief materials to flood victims, tractors, paddy rice to farmers

By: Our Reporter

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has said the ongoing reforms initiated by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are such that will create employment opportunities for the youth population as well as provide greater opportunities in the various sectors of the economy.

He underscored the inevitability of skills acquisition among the young demographic in Nigeria, noting that the nation can no longer afford to keep growing a population of idle, unemployed and unemployable youths.

The Vice President spoke on Friday during the Combined Graduation Ceremony of the Wing Commander Abdullahi Ibrahim Vocational and Technology Institute in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital.

The Vice President stated: “The danger of paying lip service to technical and vocational skills acquisition is one none of us is prepared to experience, and the examples of various low- and middle-income countries, especially the Asian Tigers, are there to inspire the direction of our National Development Plans and push our economic drive towards a destination we all desire—a place of boom.

“This is why His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has championed economic reforms beyond the usual cosmetic fixes to lay the groundwork for greater opportunities ahead. With increased allocations to the states, I believe that we are more than energised to fund our development programmes”.

Recalling Nigeria’s origin as an agrarian nation, Senator Shettima noted that there is no greater inspiration than concentrating on “the magnitude of initiatives made possible by the proceeds of the sector and the hard work of those skilled and unskilled workers who were the fulcrum of our pre-oil economy”.

He said the graduation ceremony was an opportunity to celebrate the sincerity of the administration’s promise to create avenues for upskilling and reskilling the nation’s workforce across sectors.

VP Shettima pointed out that the institute is a vehicle through which the APC-led government fulfils its promise to Nigerians to “prioritise poverty reduction, employment generation, and job creation”.

Cautioning against harbouring the population of unemployed youths in the country, he said, “The reality we inherited points to the existence of a link between youth unemployment, violence, and other associated crimes, and as such, we cannot afford to create an idle, unemployed, or unemployable demographic.

“Our response, over which we gather here today, is to build on our agenda of providing our youths with skills to either find gainful employment or become self-reliant. This grand event, the Combined Graduation Ceremony for the graduands of the Wing Commander Abdullahi Ibrahim Vocational and Technology Institute, Lafia, aligns with the direction the world is headed—the path of skill acquisition.”

The VP applauded the foresight of Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, which he said is being manifested in his aspiration to turn the state “into a hub of jobs and opportunities.”

Senator Shettima who had earlier flagged off the distribution of relief materials to flood victims, presentation of tractors and paddy rice to farmers in the state said it was a demonstration of his “affinity for Nasarawa State, and as a Kanuri man who has ancestral connections with some segments” of the state that has already become home to him.

He also commended the institute for graduating no fewer than 9,000 graduands barely three years of its existence, even as he charged the graduands to join relevant associations and cooperatives to enable them access loan facilities and learn from the experiences of those ahead of them in their respective enterprises.

Earlier in his remarks, Governor Sule said the skills programme of the state vocational and technology institute was designed to address the skills gap in critical sectors and empower young Nigerians.

He thanked Vice President Shettima for finding time to visit the state, and for supporting its modest contributions to economic transformation and youth empowerment.

In his remarks, former Plateau State Governor, Senator Simon Lalong, praised the courage and efforts of the state government in impacting the lives of young Nigerians through the various schemes in agriculture and vocational and technology training.

On his part, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, His Lordship, Hassan Kukah, thanked Nasarawa State government for the efforts to address poverty through skills acquisition and economic empowerment initiative, just as he emphasised the significance of empowering young people with skills to impact their communities and societies.

In his remarks, the Executive Director of the Wing Commander Abdullahi Ibrahim Vocational Technology Institute, Dr Daniel Asele said the 1,000 graduands of the 2024 programme of the institute had undergone rigorous training and acquired skills that are relevant to contemporary challenges of their communities and state at large.

In a goodwill message, the Director General of the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA), Mr Adewale Oyerinde, commended the Nasarawa State government for its commitment to empowering young Nigerians, saying the programme would significantly impact ongoing efforts to transform and industrialise the economy by providing the necessary skilled manpower to drive the processes.

On his part, the Emir of Lafia, Hon. Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad I (rtd), thanked the Vice President for his support and commitment to the people of Nasarawa State, pledging the loyalty of the traditional council to the federal government’s programmes and policies.

High points of the event were the presentation of start-up packs and certificates to the graduands in welding, tailoring, and ICT among other fields.

Meanwhile, Vice President Shettima had earlier flagged the distribution of relief materials to flood victims in affected local government areas.

He also presented tractors and distributed Jangwa Paddi Rice from the proceeds of the pioneer Nasarawa Rice Farm project to 13 local government areas.

The VP commended Governor Sule for his exemplary leadership and sterling qualities, saying they have ensured peaceful co-existence among the different tribes in the state, and transformed agricultural production across the area.

The VP also toured the Olam warehouse where the produce of the Nasarawa State Rice Farm project for 2024 was stored.

Also present at the event were the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen Abubakar Kyari; Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr Emmanuel Akabe; Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Danladi Jatau; Director General, National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Mr Silas Agara, and other top government functionaries.

VP SHETTIMA AT NASARAWA STATE VOCATIONAL INSTITUTE GRADUATION