The Governor of Borno State, Maiduguri (2026)

21/05/2026

Zulum lauds Tinubu, Shettima as Gubio emerges Borno APC’ guber candidate
. I will consolidate on Zulum’s gains – Gubio

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima following the emergence of Mustapha Gubio as the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking shortly after the affirmation ceremony in Maiduguri on Thursday, Governor Zulum emphasised that Gubio’s emergence was not a product of political manoeuvring but the will of Allah.

He stated: “What we saw today is the will of Almighty Allah. Allah, in his infinite wisdom, gives power to whom he wills. There is nothing I can say other than to extend my appreciation to the Almighty Allah who has given us the opportunity to witness this very important occasion.

"I want to convey my deepest appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and indeed my boss, Senator Kashim Shettima, for all the support they have rendered to us that has ensured the consensus that led to the emergence of Alhaji Mustapha Gubio.”

The governor further expressed profound gratitude to Tinubu and Shettima for providing, “an enabling environment” for the rancour-free primary election across the state.

He noted that their commitment to internal party democracy has strengthened the APC’s cohesion in Borno State.

Before Thursday’s affirmation, Engr Mustapha Gubio had emerged as the APC’s consensus candidate following series of consultations among critical stakeholders.

The affirmation ceremony was presided over by Borno’s primary election committee's chairman, Chief Emma Eneukwu, at the defunct Kashim Ibrahim College of Education, Maiduguri.

In his remarks, Vice President Shettima, who personally attended the affirmation ceremony, called for unity among all party faithful, particularly those that lost out in the delegates' selection.

The VP said: “I want to commend the good people of Borno for the orderly conduct of all our elections. There is no victor, no vanquished in this contest. As rightly captured by the governor of Borno State, it is Allah that gives power to whomever he wills at his own appointed time.

“I wish to implore all those who might have lost out in the contest to represent our different constituencies to please let us sheath our swords for the good of our people."

In attendance were dignitaries like former Governors Ali Modu Sheriff and Senator Maina Ma’aji Lawan.

Other stakeholders, including APC’s Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Dalori, APC State Chairman, Bello Ayuba, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, among others, blessed the affirmation amidst a crowd of supporters in Maiduguri.
. I will consolidate on Zulum’s gains – Gubio

Meanwhile, the Borno State, APC gubernatorial Engr. Mustapha Gubio has pledged to build upon the transformative achievements of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, promising to prioritise education, human empowerment, agriculture, the reconstruction of communities devastated by insurgency and other critical sectors.

Gubio stated this in his acceptance speech following his affirmation as the APC gubernatorial candidate for Borno.

He expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Governor Zulum for their unwavering leadership and commitment to restoring peace and development in the Northeast.

“I wish to deeply express my gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his exemplary leadership, unwavering support, and commitment to the advancement and development of Borno State.

“I would like to also express my gratitude to our leader, His Excellency, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, for his invaluable assistance in fostering party unity in our state and for the ongoing support and encouragement he has offered since I emerged as the consensus candidate.

"I am particularly grateful to my mentor and benefactor, His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, FNSE, MNI, the Executive Governor of Borno State. I am profoundly appreciative of his unwavering support, mentorship, confidence, and encouragement throughout my journey in public service," he said.

Gubio outlined the critical sectors designed to sustain and expand the Zulun administration’s successes.

He said: “By the will of Allah, if given the mandate, we will pursue these responsibilities with renewed vigour and determination. We shall intensify efforts to continue addressing insurgency and other forms of insecurity, build on the current administration's resettlement efforts for displaced persons and refugees through the establishment of Resettlement Mega Hubs, and accelerate the reconstruction of destroyed communities.

“We will continue to invest heavily in education and vocational training to reduce further the number of out-of-school children, combat illiteracy—particularly in rural communities—and equip our youth with skills for self-reliance and productivity. Additionally, we will continue to support healthcare sector initiatives that guarantee quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare services for all citizens.

“Furthermore, we are dedicated to sustaining and improving the standard of living of our people through expanded empowerment initiatives and poverty alleviation programs aimed at addressing youth and women's unemployment, social unrest, destitution, and the welfare needs of the less privileged in our society.

“Consequently, we would ensure discipline, respect to constituted authority, and tackle issues of political thuggery and gangsterism. We will maintain a strict policy of zero tolerance for financial misconduct and corruption in the public sector.

“We will also consolidate on the massive infrastructural development initiated by the present administration. Our priorities will include sustaining the electrification of towns and villages through renewable energy solutions such as solar systems, providing potable water for both human and animal consumption, consolidating existing all-year-round agricultural practices to ensure food sufficiency, and promoting sports and recreational activities as tools for youth engagement and social development.”

10/05/2026

Zulum elated by Tinubu’s approval of 3 federal institutions for Borno in 3 years
. Says Borno will reciprocate the gesture in 2027

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving three major federal institutions for the state within three years of assuming office.

Zulum made the commendation on Sunday in Bama, shortly after a sympathy visit to residents affected by a devastating windstorm that struck part of the town last week.

Zulum specifically noted that since President Tinubu took office, he has approved the take-off of three vital federal institutions, including the Federal College of Education, Gwoza; the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Azare; and the Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama.

He expressed delight that the institutions would directly transform the lives of the people of Borno through job creation, improved access to quality education, and specialised healthcare delivery.

Zulum commended President Tinubu for his sustained attention to Borno’s recovery and development needs, noting that the three federal institutions would significantly accelerate post-insurgency reconstruction and economic revitalisation.

“I want to draw your attention to the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama, by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, just two days ago.

“The pioneer principal officers were appointed. This is a remarkable achievement, and we want to hail the President for what he has done.”

“The take-off of the Federal College of Education, Gwoza, and the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Azare, was achieved under the administration of President Tinubu; therefore, I want to commend him and assure him that the people of Borno State will reciprocate the kind gesture at the appropriate time.”

Zulum had last year announced the handover of Umar Ibn Ibrahim El-Kanemi College of Education, Science, and Technology, Bama, for the immediate commencement of academic activities at the newly established Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama. The Governor also approved one billion naira for the immediate take-off of the University.

The Governor has consistently offered similar support to the Federal Polytechnic, Monguno; Federal College of Education, Gwoza; and National Orthopaedic Hospital, Azare, approving over N5 billion to facilitate a seamless take-off.

The Governor also inspected ongoing construction work for the 19 Brigade headquarters in Bama, underscoring his administration’s determination to consolidate security gains and restore full civil authority around the Bama general area.

10/05/2026

Zulum Sympathises with Bama Windstorm Victims, Orders Assessment, Cash

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Sunday morning, travelled to Bama town to commiserate with victims of a devastating windstorm that affected several households.

Zulum was accompanied to Bama by the member of the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba, Secretary to Borno State Government, Bukar Tijani, Acting Chief of Staff, Engr Babagana Mustapha Malumbe, former commissioners and other senior government officials.

He announced immediate relief measures, including a cash payment of N500,000 to the families of each of those that lost their lives in the windstorm.

Governor Zulum also directed prompt assessment of the extent of destruction across the affected areas, stating that support would be provided based on the severity of damage to each household.

While acknowledging the immediate needs of the victims, Zulum used the opportunity to warn residents against the indiscriminate felling of trees. a practice he said is the major cause of windstorms and other environmental disasters in the region.

“We must stop cutting down trees arbitrarily. This is a key factor behind the increasing intensity of storms and ecological challenges we face. We already have laws on the ground, and there is a need to ensure that we fully implement them,” Zulum said.

The governor further reassured displaced persons of his administration’s unwavering commitment to returning all those still living in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps to their ancestral homes in safety and dignity.

According to Bama Local Government Chairman, Babagana Barma, no fewer than 1,200 houses were affected by the disaster, while four persons tragically lost their lives.

07/05/2026

Zulum praises Tinubu for Agric University, says Borno will support take off

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to expanding access to quality education, particularly with the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship in Bama, Borno State.

Zulum made the commendation while reacting to the recent appointment of principal officers for the new university. Speaking during a visit to the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa in Abuja on Thursday, Zulum emphasised that the swift appointment of the institution’s leadership underscores President Tinubu’s dedication to educational development not only in Borno but across the entire north-east.

He further praised the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, for his supportive role in the appointment of principal officers for the newly established Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama, Borno State.

Zulum assured the minister of the state’s full cooperation and pledged that the state government would provide all necessary support to ensure the institution begins academic activities smoothly and successfully.

The newly appointed principal officers are Prof. Tijjani Kalli as Vice Chancellor, Abba Kaka as Registrar, Bashir Subaru as Bursar, and Aishatu Halilu as Librarian.

Governor Zulum further emphasised that the establishment of the university and the appointment of its management team would significantly enhance educational development in Borno State and the north-east region. He added that the institution would also contribute meaningfully to economic growth, entrepreneurship development, agricultural innovation, and human capital advancement in the state.

The governor was accompanied by a member of the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba; the Chairman of Borno State Social Investment, Hon. Yuguda Vungas Saleh and an elder statesman, Alhaji Mamman Tubo.

06/05/2026

Zulum meets NPA’s mgt in Lagos, wants Borno’s export capabilities scaled up

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, met with the management of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) in Lagos on Tuesday during which he discussed opportunities for his state’s local creators to link into the value chain.

Zulum's administration, since 2019, has pushed to diversify Borno’s economy while also creating a conducive environment for business and investment.

The governor, who was received by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the NPA, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, alongside Executive Director, Engr. Ibrahim Abba Umar, had paid a similar high-level visit to the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) last year.

At the NSC meeting, Zulum had pushed for the fast-tracking of the Maiduguri Dry Inland Port; a landmark project designed to bring port services closer to the northeast.

Once operational, the dry port will create thousands of jobs, generate significant internal revenue and boost Borno’s overall economic activity by reducing logistics costs and decongesting coastal ports.

In a related development, Zulum's administration is also working to fully establish the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in Banki, a border town neighbouring the Republic of Cameroon, with the process already at an advanced stage.

By simultaneously advancing the Dry Inland Port in Maiduguri and the Free Trade Zone in Banki, Zulum is putting in place a coherent strategy to industrialise Borno, create jobs, generate revenue and permanently shift the state’s economy away from over-reliance on monthly federal allocations.

28/04/2026

Remi Tinubu Rolls Out North East National Community Food Bank Programme

… Lauds Zulum for Prioritizing Women's Empowerment

… Zulum Donates ₦500 million to Food Bank Trust Fund

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched the National Community Food Bank Programme for the North East zone, describing it as a strategic and sustainable response to food insecurity in the country.

Speaking at the multi-purpose hall of the Government House in Maiduguri, Senator Remi Tinubu said the initiative is designed to provide nutritious food to children under the age of six, pregnant and lactating mothers, and vulnerable households across the country.

“The National Community Food Bank Programme is a deliberate and sustainable response to food insecurity and hunger in vulnerable households in Nigeria. It is designed to ensure that vulnerable children under the age of six, pregnant and lactating mothers have access to nutritious food, thereby restoring hope where it is most needed,” Senator Tinubu stated.

The First Lady had earlier flagged off food distribution. She inspected the food bank and stabilization centre at Shuwari II Primary Healthcare Centre, where she also spoke with some beneficiaries.

According to her, the initiative is being implemented in collaboration with key institutions, including the Office of the First Lady, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, and the Bank of Agriculture.

The First Lady commended Borno State Governor for donating to the Trust Fund. “I would like to commend Your Excellency for the generous donation which affirms that we are indeed our brothers’ keepers and gives confidence that this programme will endure and thrive for many years to come beyond this administration.”

She also praised Governor Zulum’s efforts to empower women in the state. “I would like to specially commend the Governor of Borno State for his remarkable gesture of empowering 2,000 women through the provision of sewing machines and a grant of N100,000 each. He has brought hope and support to many families. I say thank you on their behalf,” she added.

She further lauded the governor’s commitment to development, citing key projects commissioned during her visit. “Your Excellency, you are doing a great job in Borno State across critical sectors, and this is clearly evident in the three projects I have just commissioned today. These projects speak volumes about your administration’s commitment to education, healthcare, and the overall well-being of the people. I say well done,” the First Lady concluded.

…Zulum Donates ₦500,000,000 to Food Bank Trust Fund

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has announced a donation of ₦500,000,000 on behalf of Borno State Government to the National Community Food Bank Trust Fund to ensure the sustainability of the programme.

He described the ongoing interventions by the federal government and the Office of the First Lady as critical to advancing development and improving the livelihoods of vulnerable people in the state.

“Your Excellency, we deeply appreciate your continued leadership and support. These interventions reflect the strong partnership between the Federal and State Governments in advancing development and improving livelihoods,” Zulum said.

Highlighting developments in the health sector, Zulum said the commissioning of Nurses’ Quarters underscores his administration’s commitment to workforce welfare.

“Nurses are central to healthcare delivery, especially in underserved areas. Providing safe and nearby accommodation will improve service delivery, staff retention, and emergency response, adding that the facility’s proximity to the State Specialists Hospital would ensure uninterrupted healthcare services.”

On education, the governor outlined significant progress achieved. “The State has constructed 104 mega schools, expanded senior secondary schools from 34 to 129, and increased enrolment to over 1.4 million learners,” he said.

“In recognition of excellence and dedication, nine education personnel are being honored today, with brand-new vehicles and a house to outstanding teachers, head teachers, principals, TVET coordinators, and civil servants.”

The governor further expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving funding for power infrastructure in the state. “We wish to express our profound appreciation to His Excellency for approving the sum of sixty-eight billion naira to support power supply in Borno State through the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant,” he said. “This strategic intervention will significantly improve electricity supply in Maiduguri and surrounding areas.”

Borno State First Lady, Dr Falmata Babagana Zulum, commended Senator Oluremi Tinubu for launching the programme in Borno State, which has endured prolonged humanitarian challenges over 16 years of insurgency.

The programme was attended by the representative of the Governor of Gombe State, members of the national and state assemblies, ministers of Health, Education, and Agriculture, Shehu of Borno, Dikwa, and Emir of Shani, wives of state governors, secretary to Borno State Government, Heads of Federal and state agencies and parastatals, among other personalities.

26/04/2026

Borno APC Endorses Tinubu, Shettima for 2027

The Borno State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima as the party’s unified choices for the 2027 general elections.

The decision was reached at a high-level critical stakeholders’ meeting held on Saturday in Maiduguri, the state capital. The gathering was presided over by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum and saw unprecedented attendance from the majority of the party’s critical stakeholders.

The resolution was reaffirmed following a motion by the State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulu, supporting the Tinubu-Shettima ticket for the 2027 election under the APC.

Governor Zulum, addressing the gathering, called for all hands to be on deck to ensure a massive vote for the APC in Borno State in next year's election, adding that the party's victory can only be achieved when the long-standing unity among stakeholders is maintained.

Zulum pointed out that in the last 7 years, his administration has been fair to all political stakeholders and prayed for Allah’s guidance for a successor who will build on the successes achieved so far.

The Governor assured that politics will not deter him and that he will continue to deliver the dividends of democracy to the good people of Borno State.

Those in attendance include the deputy governor, Umar Usman Kadafur, APC Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Bukar Dalori, State APC Chairman, Bello Atuba, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, 3 former deputy governors, Speaker Borno State House of Assembly, serving and former senators, serving and former members of the House of Representatives and State Assembly, as well as state and local government party executives.

Also present are the Secretary to the Borno State Government, Bukar Tijani; the Acting Chief of Staff, Dr Babagana Mustapha Mallumbe; the SSA to the President on Legal and Compliance Matters (VP Office), Barrister Bashir Maidugu; former commissioners; Special Advisers; and other senior political appointees of the Borno State Government.

21/04/2026

At Kogi Security Summit: Zulum Advocates Use of Technology, AI

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has called for a shift in Nigeria’s security architecture, urging stakeholders to deploy technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to combat rising threats.

Speaking at the Kogi Security Summit on Tuesday in Abuja, Zulum argued that traditional methods alone cannot defeat sophisticated criminal networks. He advocated for the integration of surveillance drones, biometric tracking, and predictive analytics to pre-empt attacks.

“For us to address the insecurity, we need to possess modern technological warfare; technologies such as artificial intelligence and robotics are now deployed to combat crime,” Zulum said.

Beyond hardware, Zulum stressed that security is a collective burden. He urged citizens to “own the issues of insecurity” by actively participating in intelligence gathering and community policing, rather than leaving the fight solely to security agencies.

Furthermore, Zulum charged authorities with tackling the root causes of insecurity, particularly poverty and infrastructure deficits. The Governor noted that unemployment, hunger, and lack of basic amenities create fertile ground for recruitment by criminal elements.

“While it is critical to purchase equipment such as vehicles, MRAPS, drones and other facilities to confront the insecurity, but most importantly, without addressing the underlying factors such as poverty, road infrastructures, agriculture, among others, insecurity will not end. So, I want you to dedicate some of your funding to addressing such issues.”

“Understanding the socio-economic and political dimensions of every crisis is very important. Increasing poverty, climate vulnerabilities, infrastructural deficit, illiteracy, among others, have to be addressed if we want security in our communities.”

“The security of lives and property is the cardinal objective of any administration; the nexus between peace and security cannot be overemphasised. It is only when there is security that there will be peace; and without peace, there will be no development,” Zulum stressed.

Zulum was accompanied by the member representing Marte, Monguno Nganzai federal constituency, Hon. Engr Bukar Talba.

17/04/2026

VP Shettima Commissions New Borno Governor’s Office Complex, Clinic, four others

Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has commissioned the newly constructed Governor’s Office Complex delivered by Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, as part of efforts to modernize governance infrastructure in the state.

The project is a key component of Governor Zulum’s broader initiative to create a more conducive working environment for staff at the seat of power and to enhance administrative efficiency.

Briefing the VP shortly before inaugurating the project, Governor Zulum explained that the current complex has been in existence for more than three decades.

“The existing Governor’s office complex was constructed over three decades ago and required urgent modernization to improve working conditions and enhance service delivery at the Government House,” he said.

Vice President Shettima, in his remarks, commended the governor for the massive investment in governance infrastructure.

“This project reflects a clear commitment to improving the Executive arm of the government, providing an enabling environment for effective service delivery,” he said.

Other projects inaugurated by the Vice President include the Presidential Lodge annex, a new lodge annex, the Government House clinic, and the Government House clinic.

Delivering the first Juma’at sermon shortly after the inauguration, Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Affairs, Sheikh Muhammad Mustapha, underscored the spiritual significance of Friday prayers.

“Juma’ah offers an opportunity for reflection, repentance, and a return to righteous conduct.
urging Muslims to shun sinful acts and seek divine intervention to address the prevailing security challenges in the state,” Sheikh Mustapha said.

The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur; Senators Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Mohammed Ali Ndume, and Kaka Shehu Lawan (SAN); members of the House of Representatives; APC Deputy National Chairman North; ministers; and other top government officials.

15/04/2026

Zulum Mourns Fallen Soldiers, Announces N50 Million Support for Families of Deceased Troops

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and seven other personnel of Operation Hadin Kai, describing their sacrifice as a painful but heroic loss in the fight against insurgency.

Governor Zulum made the remarks on Wednesday during the burial ceremony held in honor of the late military officers and soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty at Maimalari Cantonment Military Cemetery in Maiduguri.

“Today, we are gathered here in solemn memory to witness yet another sad event, the burial of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and seven other troops of Operation Hadin Kai, who paid the supreme price in the discharge of their duties while protecting the lives and property of our people,” Zulum said.

The governor, in an emotionally laden voice, extended condolences on behalf of the government and people of Borno State to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Defense, Chief of Defense Staff, Chief of Army Staff, and the entire Nigerian Armed Forces, as well as the bereaved families.

Zulum described the recent targeted attacks on military commanders as a deliberate attempt by insurgents to weaken the morale of troops, but assured that efforts are underway to reverse the trend.

“The resurgence in the killing of combatant officers and men is a deliberate attempt to demoralize our armed forces, but we shall do everything possible to reverse this trend, Insha Allah,” he stated.

The governor praised the courage and resilience of the Nigerian military, noting that soldiers remain the primary targets in the ongoing conflict.

He reaffirmed the commitment of both the federal and state governments to strengthening the military's capacity.

“The Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alongside the Northern Governors Forum and the Northeast Governors Forum, is making frantic efforts to provide the necessary support and assets needed to protect our armed forces and civilians,” he said.

Zulum announced N50 million in financial assistance as immediate relief for the bereaved families. “As immediate support to cushion the effect of this tragic loss, the Borno State Government will release N50 million to the family of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and other deceased personnel,” the governor announced.

The governor concluded by praying for the repose of the souls of the fallen heroes and urging their families to remain steadfast in faith.

Minister of Defense General Christopher Musa Rtd paid glowing tribute to Brigadier General Braimah and other gallant soldiers killed in the line of duty during ongoing counterinsurgency operations in the North-East, describing their deaths as the ultimate sacrifice for national peace and security.

He praised Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, for his steadfast support in the fight against terrorism.

“I want to appreciate His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Borno State, for his outstanding commitment in supporting the fight against terrorism in the North-East. We salute you, sir,” he said.

Chief of Defense Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff, Leuitenant General Waidi Shuaibu, also mourn the deceased personnel, expressed determination to bring to an end the war against insurgency and other forms of criminality.

The solemn event was attended by Senator representing Southern Borno, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume; the member representing Marte, Monguno, and Nganzai, Hon. Bukar Talba; the Secretary to the Borno State Government, acting Chief of Staff to the Governor; and senior military and state government officials.

The Governor of Borno State

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