Dauda Iliya

VP Shettima, Zulum, Others Grace Babajide Otitoju’s Book Launch Vice President, Senator Kashim @officialSKSM, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara @ProfZulum, and governors of Kwara, Lagos, Taraba, Kogi, and Akwa Ibom States attended the book launch and 60th birthday celebration of veteran journalist and Director of News at TVC, Babajide Otitoju. The event, held on Monday at the NAF Conference Centre, brought together prominent figures from Nigeria’s political and media spheres in honour of Otitoju’s enduring contributions to journalism. The highlight of the occasion was the unveiling of Otitoju’s book titled “My Life and Journalist Hangout.” Chairman of the event and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazak, delivered remarks on behalf of the 36 state governors. He described Otitoju as a seasoned journalist whose work has significantly influenced the growth and development of journalism in Nigeria, adding that his legacy will stand as one of excellence and professionalism in the media industry. In a demonstration of collective support, the Kwara State Governor announced the purchase of 36 copies of the book on behalf of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum for a total sum of ₦200 million.

PRESS RELEASE Zulum Dissolves Borno State Executive Council Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the immediate dissolution of the State Executive Council. The decision is to provide an enabling environment for any member of the council who may wish to contest elective positions in the forthcoming general elections. The Governor has therefore directed all Commissioners to hand over the affairs of their respective ministries to the Permanent Secretaries on or before Friday, April 3, 2026. Governor Zulum expressed his profound appreciation to the outgoing Commissioners for their dedication, commitment, and invaluable contributions to the development and service of the people of Borno State. Signed: Bukar Tijani FASN, FSSN, JAAS Secretary to the Borno State Government

Zulum Celebrates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR @74

Zulum Visits Ngoshe, Pledges Reconstruction of Damaged Infrastructure …Vows Ngoshe Will Not Fall Again Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara @ProfZulum, on Sunday, visited Ngoshe which is about 40 kilometres away from Gwoza to see for himself the level of damage. Zulum, who has embarked on a two-day confidence and resilience-building tour to victims of recent Boko Haram attacks in Ngoshe and Pulka, disbursed cash and relief items to over 30,000 people affected by the recent incident. Speaking to newsmen shortly after inspecting the affected community, the governor described the level of destruction as shocking and heartbreaking. “It is saddening to see this kind of devastation. In recent times, I have not witnessed such destruction. It is sheer madness, but Insha Allah, we shall build back better,” the governor said. He assured residents of Ngoshe in Gwoza Local Government Area that government will rebuild homes and public infrastructure destroyed by recent attacks, while intensifying security efforts to restore lasting peace in the area. Zulum said he had directed officials of the Ministry of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement to immediately assess the extent of the damage with a view to rehabilitating all burnt structures. “I am here with representatives of the Ministry for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement, and I have directed them to assess the level of damage so that all the burnt infrastructure can be rehabilitated,” he said. The governor noted that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed @officialABAT, had recently released funds to the @MNJTFOfficial Joint Task Force to boost @DHQNigeria operations in the region. “I am pleased to announce the support and funding recently released by the Federal Government of Nigeria, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the Multinational Joint Task Force for military operations in this general area,” he said. He explained that the Mandara Hills remain a major stronghold for insurgents, stressing that the only effective response is to take the battle directly to them. The governor commended the military authorities, particularly the General Officer Commanding 7 Division and the Brigade Commander, for their renewed effort in Ngoshe. According to him, security presence in the area has now been significantly reinforced. “The military has taken over Ngoshe again. They have increased the number of personnel in Ngoshe by 100 per cent, and I believe with what they have done so far, we will keep Ngoshe secure,” Zulum added. …Vows Ngoshe Will Not Fall Again Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has reaffirmed the commitment of both the Federal Government and Borno State Government to decisively address the lingering security challenges in the state, assuring residents of Ngoshe that the town will not be allowed to fall back into the control of insurgents insha Allah. Addressing troops of 82 Division Task Force Battalion Ngoshe, Zulum said efforts are ongoing to strengthen the military's capacity. “I want to assure you that the Federal Government of Nigeria, and indeed the Government of Borno State, in partnership with the Armed Forces, will do everything possible to contain the lingering security situation,” he said. The governor emphasized the strategic importance of Ngoshe, warning that its fall could have wider security implications for surrounding communities. “Ngoshe is very important. The fall of Ngoshe would send a very bad signal to Pulka, Kirawa, Gwoza, and even Bama. We shall not allow this town to be taken over again by insurgents.” Governor Babagana Zulum was accompanied on the visit by Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, member House of Assembly representing Gwoza, Hon. Abdullahi Buba Abatcha, Commissioner for Transport and Energy, Mohammed Lawan Buba, and Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, among other personalities.

Zulum Spends Night Coordinating Security in Pulka ... Disburses Cash, Palliative to over 30,000 Ngoshe, Pulka Households Borno State Governor spent the entire Saturday night coordinating security activities in Pulka following the recent attacks in Ngoshe, Pulka and other communities in Gwoza. This is the first time a sitting governor has slept in Pulka, a community 22 kilometres from Gwoza. Governor Zulum held a security meeting with the Brigade Commander, military officers, security personnel, and civilian JTF to discuss strengthening security in the general area. He said leadership is all about commitment and sacrifice which has been the hallmark of his administration since he assumed office. “Leadership is not about living in your comfort zone and addressing people and their concerns, but coming directly to the doorsteps of the less privileged. This has been my tradition, this has been my culture since I assumed duty as the governor of the state,” Zulum said. “I cannot remember when I lived consecutively for 10 days in my office or even one week since I assumed duty. I'm always in the remote areas attending to people, and I believe this is what we should do from now on to the end of my own administration,” he added. … Zulum Disburses Cash, Palliative to over 30,000 Ngoshe, Pulka Households Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has distributed cash, food, and non-food items to over 30,000 affected households of Ngoshe and Pulka communities. The relief item is intended to provide succor to victims of the recent attack and to the host communities. “Each male and female heads of household in Ngoshe will receive N30,000, while married women will receive N20,000. In addition, mattresses and clothing will be distributed to both men and women,” Zulum announced. The governor disclosed that the intervention would also cover Pulka community which has been impacted by the influx of displaced persons from neighbouring areas. He further acknowledged the support of the Federal Government and Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who donated 30,000 bags of 10kg rice to support vulnerable populations in the state. “Out of the 30,000 bags, Pulka community will benefit from the scheme. We are distributing both food and non-food items not only to Ngoshe but also Pulka, which is also a displacement-affected community,” Zulum noted. Governor Zulum called on residents of affected communities in Gwoza to remain patient and cooperate with security agencies, assuring them of sustained efforts by both the federal and state governments to restore lasting peace. “They should give the necessary cooperation to all security agencies with a view to identifying culprits within the society. Information is a very valuable tool for addressing insecurity. Without the support of the community, insecurity will never end,” he added. Items distributed include rice, maize, guinea corn, mattresses, and plastic mats. Those on the governor’s entourage include Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, member representing Gwoza, Damboa, and Chibok at the national assembly, Hon. Ahmed Jaha, Chairman Palliative Distribution Committee and member representing Monguno, Nganzai, Marte, Hon. Bukar Talba, member representing Gwoza state constituency; Commissioners for Local government and that of Transport and Energy; Special Advisers and other government officials.

Zulum Pays Confidence Building Visit to Victims of Ngoshe Attack …Assures Enhanced Security, Humanitarian Support Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Saturday, paid a confidence- and resilience-building visit to the displaced persons in Ngoshe, who are currently taking refuge in Pulka. Ngoshe, a community in Gwoza local government, was attacked on 4th March, forcing residents to flee their homes. This is the second time Governor Babagana Zulum has visited victims of Ngoshe, who is deeply disturbed about the security situation not only in Gwoza, but also in the entire State. Addressing the displaced persons at the Pulka Central Primary School, Zulum said the visit was aimed at reinforcing government support, boosting public confidence, and engaging stakeholders on improved security strategies. “The major reason why we are here is first and foremost to once again sympathize with them and to convey our deepest sympathy, and to assure them that the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Borno State Government will do everything possible to strengthen the security of the entire Gwoza community,” Zulum said. He reassured residents of Gwoza and surrounding communities of strengthened security measures and sustained humanitarian support following recent attacks, stressing that all those in captivity will be rescued. Governor Babagana Zulum informed them that the government will rebuild destroyed infrastructure and ensure a safe, dignified return of any person willing to return to the community. Governor Zulum urged residents to collaborate with security agencies to enhance resilience and prevent future attacks. The governor further disclosed that food and non-food items would be distributed to displaced households, noting that humanitarian assistance would also be extended to the Pulka community, which has received displaced persons from neighbouring areas affected by the attacks. “Most of them have left their homes for about two weeks, and we believe there is a need to provide palliatives. By tomorrow morning, we shall provide food and non-food items to heads of households and married women,” he added. On security, the governor said consultations would be held with military commanders and local security outfits, including the Civilian JTF, hunters, and vigilantes, to strengthen operations in the area. “Tonight, we shall discuss with the brigade commander, military officers, and all security personnel on how to strengthen security around this general area,” he said. Zulum emphasised that ongoing counter-terrorism efforts are being driven by strong collaboration between security forces and local communities. “What is ongoing here is a result of a very serious partnership between the army, other security personnel, and the community. The Civilian JTF, hunters, and vigilantes are working under the command and control of the Nigerian Army,” he noted. The Governor was accompanied by the Senator representing Borno South, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume; members of the House of Representatives; the House of Assembly member representing Gwoza; the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs; his Transport and Energy counterpart; and stakeholders from Gwoza local government.

Zulum Pledges Jobs, Skills Training for Borno Youth @BornoGovt State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara @ProfZulum, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating job opportunities and expanding vocational training programmes for youths across the state. Governor Zulum made the pledge on Saturday while receiving the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, who paid the traditional Sallah homage at the Government House in Maiduguri. The Sallah visit, a longstanding tradition of the Borno Emirate, symbolises respect and solidarity between the traditional institution and the state government. Welcoming the Shehu and his entourage, Zulum said his administration would intensify efforts to empower young people through employment and skills acquisition initiatives. “We will continue to create job opportunities and provide vocational training to accommodate the teeming youth of our state,” Zulum said. He also appealed to the monarch to sustain prayers for lasting peace and stability in Borno and Nigeria, while assuring continued government support to the traditional institution. The governor further disclosed that efforts were underway to connect the remaining local government areas to the national electricity grid. Zulum commended the Shehu for his resilience and commitment to leadership, particularly for remaining in his palace during the peak of the insurgency. Shehu of Borno said the Sallah homage remained a key tradition of the emirate to felicitate with the government and people of the state. “This visit is part of our longstanding tradition to identify with the government and the good people of Borno during festive periods,” Shehu Garbai said. The Shehu also acknowledged the developmental strides recorded under the Zulum administration and urged the government to sustain efforts in youth empowerment, job creation, and security. The royal father was accompanied on the visit by senior members of the Borno Emirate Council, including the Waziri of Borno, Alhaji Mutawalli Shettima Bukar, Imam Idaini, the Chief Imam and traditional title holders. Meanwhile, Governor Zulum also received Sallah homage from delegations of the University of Maiduguri, Kashim Ibrahim College of Education, Al-Ansar University, and the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri. The delegations congratulated the governor on the successful completion of Ramadan and commiserated with him over the recent bomb blast in Maiduguri. Responding, Zulum expressed appreciation for their visit and reaffirmed his administration’s support to federal institutions operating in the state.

Zulum: Borno Government to Shoulder Medical Bills as Governor Visits Maiduguri Bomb Blasts, Victims Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umar Zulum, has cut short his visit to Saudi Arabia to console with victims of the recent triple suicide attacks in Maiduguri. Governor Zulum on Thursday visited the victims receiving treatment at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) and the State Specialist Hospital, describing the attacks as a sad disaster that will not occur again, assuring residents that the worst days are over. The Governor, who was performing the Lesser Hajj when the attacks occurred, further reassured residents that Borno will never fall back to the terrorists as witnessed in the past. "Insha'Allah, Borno State will not fall into the hands of Boko Haram again. I want to sympathise with the families of those who lost their lives and assure them that the government will support them,” Zulum assured. "Borno State government will shoulder the responsibility of all those who are being treated in the hospitals. God will repose the souls of those who lost their lives,” he said. He lauded Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for visiting the victims recuperating at the hospital and described the gesture as a commitment to leadership. He equally commended the service chiefs for visiting the State, noting that they are doing their best. "We thank the military, and we are urging the people of Borno State to remain calm as the federal and Borno State governments do everything possible to address the situation. Conducting the Governor Zulum round the injured receiving treatment at the Teaching Hospital, Director of the Trauma Centre, Dr. Bukar Bunu, said the hospital recieved a total number of 110 patients from the blast. He said these include 22 that were brought in dead and 6 persons that later died, 82 admitted, 32 successfully treated and discharged, and 50 patients on admission. The Governor was accompanied by the APC Deputy National Chairman, Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori; Senator representing South, Mohamed Ali Ndume; Senator representing Borno Central, Kaka Shehu Lawan SAN; members of the House of Representatives, Hon. Bukar Talba and Hon. Abdulkadir Rahis; members of the state assembly; Secretary to the State Government, acting Head of Service; acting Chief of Staff, Commissioners, and other senior government officials.

VP Shettima, Zulum Attend Eid Prayers at Ramat Square as Worshippers Observe Sallah Peacefully in Maiduguri. Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, joined thousands of muslim faithful to observe the Eid prayers at Ramat Square, Maiduguri. The two units prayer were observed peacefully at the main Eid ground and other prayer grounds across the state under tight security, marking the end of the month-long Ramadan fast. In a sallah message shortly after the sermon by the Imam Idaini of Borno, Shettiima Mamman Saleh, the Vice President called for unity and peaceful coexistence in the state and the country as a whole. Senator Shettima assures the Federal Government Commitment to protecting the lives and properties of the citizenry, stressing that the fight against insurgency would be tackled head-on. The Imam Idaini admonished worshippers to imbibe the lessons learned during the holy month and encouraged Muslim faithful to give alms to the poor (zakatul fitr) and to fast six days in the month of Shawwal to receive Allah's bounties and rewards. Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, in a sallah message, called on faithful to recharge their spiritual beings towards rebuilding a secure, peaceful, and prosperous Borno. He saluted the courage, resilience, and commitment of the people to all initiatives aimed at deepening security and peace-building among the various components of society, fragmented by the Boko Haram insurgency over the years. The Eid prayer was attended by the Shehu of Borno, Shehu Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Almin El-Kanemi; the Borno State Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur; the APC Deputy National Chairman, North, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume; and Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan SAN, Minister of State for Regional Development. Other dignitaries include members of the House of Representatives and the Borno State House of Assembly, former deputy governors, the Secretary to the State Government, Commissioners, APC stalwarts, and other top government officials.

Zulum Greets Muslim Ummah on Eid-El-Fitr …Re-commits to ending insecurity @BornoGovt State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara @ProfZulum, has conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to the Muslim Ummah in the state on the occasion of Eid-El-Fitr marking the successful completion of the month-long Ramadan fast. Ramadan offered the opportunity for the Muslim faithful to renew their faith, boost spiritual depth, charitable giving and other acts or worship. In a statement by his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, Governor Zulum urged the people of the state to imbibe and sustain the lessons learned during the period to recharge their spiritual beings towards rebuilding a secure, peaceful and prosperous Borno society. He described this year's Ramadan as unique, especially with unprecedented charity reach outs to the indigent population by his administration. He noted with deep satisfaction and total gratitude to Allah that his administration has reached over 300,000 vulnerable persons with food and other essential items across the 27 local government areas Although the state has recorded series of attacks, which have claimed the lives of some military men and civilians, the Governor reiterated his resolve to tackling the security situation head-on. He saluted the courage, resilience and commitment of the people to all initiatives aimed at deepening security and peace building among the various components of the society fragmented by the Boko Haram insurgency over the years. Governor Zulum expressed profound grief over the resurgence of terror attacks across parts of the state, especially the triple suicide bombings of Monday, March 9, in Maiduguri, which claimed the lives of 28 persons and injured over 100 others. He, consequently, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for sending the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima to condole with the people of Borno over the tragic incident and also deploying the Service Chiefs with a charge to review and deploy strategies towards ending the insurgency. Zulum lauded the military for the ongoing offensive operations in the Sambisa Forest, stressing similar coordinated operations in Mandara mountain, Lake Chad area and other hideouts of the insurgents. He expressed his unbreakable promise to double down in supporting the security agencies and volunteer forces in the prosecution of the counter insurgency and counter terrorism operations. Governor Zulum recalled that the people of Borno have gone through harrowing situations over the last 15 years due to the Boko Haram insurgency. He, however, urged them to sustain the impressive resilience to the impacts of terror, which they have built over the years. With the renewal of terror attacks, especially suicide bombings, Zulum strongly urged the people to uphold their decades-old personal and communal initiatives for their safety and protection in attack situations, as the security agencies deploy new and stronger strategies at plugging all loopholes the terrorists seize to carry out their cowardly attacks on communities. The governor expressed optimism that the security agencies are, more than ever before, crafting and deploying the most-successful strategies at combating the terrorists towards ending the insurgency. While strongly advising the public to heed the warnings by security agencies to steer clear of crowded locations unguarded by security agents, and be mindful of suspicious persons, Zulum assured the residents of the state that the Eid-El-Fitr praying grounds will be heavily secured for the Muslim faithful to observe their yearly sacred ritual without any fear of attack. He wished the Muslim Ummah Happy Eid-El-Fitr celebration.

Zulum Condemns Maiduguri Explosion, Calls for Calm, Vigilance in Worship, Public Places Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has condemned in the strongest terms the explosion that occurred in some parts of the metropolis on Monday evening. Zulum, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj, described the attack as despicable, cruel, and cowardly, targeting innocent people in the holy month of Ramadan. In a statement, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, called for increased vigilance and heightened security measures, particularly in places of worship, as the festive period beckons. “I am deeply saddened by the explosions that occurred in parts of the metropolis on Monday evening. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and those injured as a result of the blast. The act is utterly condemnable, barbaric, and inhumane,” said Zulum. He added, “The recent surge in attacks is not unconnected with intense military operations in the Sambisa forest and other hideouts of the insurgents. The Governor, therefore, assured people of the state that the military and other security agencies are on top of the situation, as adequate measures have been taken to forestall any security breach in Maiduguri and the entire state. He called on residents to remain calm, go about their usual activities, and report any suspicious movement or activity to security agencies.

Zulum, 9 others top 2025 governance, accountability index @BornoGovt State Governor, Babagana Umara @ProfZulum, has emerged as one of the top performers in the 2025 Governance Accountability and Transparency Index (@GATI) Report. The recognition places Zulum among a select group of Nigerian governors whose transparency reforms and people-centred projects are redefining governance standards across the country. The report, unveiled at a press conference in Abuja, the Nigerian capital territory, on Friday, March 13, 2026, marks the second edition of the annual GATI Report developed by the GOMEP Nigeria, an umbrella body of more than 75 online media editors and publishers across Nigeria. According to the organisers, the annual report seeks to strengthen democratic governance by assessing how transparently and responsibly Nigeria’s 36 state governments conduct public affairs, while also reinforcing the media’s role as an impartial watchdog on governance, social justice and public interest. Presenting the report, the national president of the GOMEP Nigeria, Dr Dozie Nwankodu, stated that the group adopted five internationally recognised methodologies in evaluating the states. Dozie noted that Borno State, which already occupied the Exceptional Performance category in 2024 with an Average Index Point of 86.3, further strengthened its standing in 2025. The state achieved 89.7 points, reflecting a 3.4-point increase and a 3.94% improvement, thereby consolidating its position among the leading performers. Part of the defining features of Zulum's governance legacy was his bold implementation of local government financial autonomy early this year. Similarly, over the past seven years, Zulum's administration has executed over 1,500 capital-intensive projects across Borno's 27 local government areas and overseen the voluntary return of over one million internally displaced persons to their ancestral homes through what is now known as the "Borno Model". Human capital development, through education, is one of Zulum's top priorities, with billions disbursed in foreign and local scholarships.  Zulum's administration has constructed over 104 new mega schools, rehabilitated countless dilapidated classrooms, and procured sports and teaching facilities leading to the Nigeria Union of Teachers recognising these efforts with the Education-Friendly Governor Award in 2024. In healthcare, Governor Zulum has delivered several mega projects, alongside sustained investments in primary healthcare delivery across remote communities. Across transportation, infrastructure, economic revival, energy, security, water resources, and agriculture, Zulum's administration has delivered hundreds of projects that have directly touched the lives of the Borno people. Zulum's governance model has attracted commendations beyond Nigeria's borders. In 2024 alone, he received the “Forbes Magazine African Leadership Award” for outstanding leadership qualities, integrity, innovation, and impact-driven projects, the German international NGO Iconic Award 2025, the African Governor of the Year Award 2023, and the African Public Service Excellence Award, 2026. Zulum holds Nigeria's national honour as Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and the Republic of Niger's Second Order of National Honour—' de Grand Officer Dans I`Ordre'—equivalent to Nigeria's Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON).

Zulum Approves Employment of 1,037 Health Professionals In Borno PHCs …Authorise Minimum Wage Implementation, Revitalises 123 Facilities Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara @ProfZulum, has approved the employment and absorption of 985 health professionals and 52 supportive staff to @NphcdaNG Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the state. The Governor also approved the engagement of 341 health professionals through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund to support frontline workers in different facilities in the state. According to the Executive Secretary of the @bornosmoh State Primary Health Care Development Board, Professor Mohammed Arab Alhaji, the giant strides are aimed at bolstering improved healthcare services at the grassroots level. “These giant strides recorded are in line with the Universal Health Coverage and in accordance with Pillar 3 of the 10-year Strategic Transformative Plan of the State by providing accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare services to the citizenry,” Prof. Arab stated. Providing a breakdown of Governor Zulum’s recent approval, the Executive Secretary said 859 health professionals of mixed cadre have been employed from the Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP) to PHC Centres across the State. Accordingly, he said, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has directed the absorption of 111 health professionals and 52 supportive staff to five PHC Centres in Goni Damgari, Wulari, Shuwari, Miringa and Fikayel, in addition to 15 health professionals, two facilities in the Mobbar local government. “The Governor has approved the absorption of 859 health professionals of mixed cadre from the Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP) to PHC Centres across the State, 111 health professionals and 52 supportive staff to five centres, namely Goni Damgari, Wulari, Shuwari, Miringa, and Fikayel, and 15 health professionals to two PHCs in Mobbar LGA,” Arab added. Other interventions include the engagement of 341 health professionals through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund and IMPACT Immunisation, respectively, to support the health workforce in the PHC Centres across the state, and the approval of the implementation of the minimum wage alongside enhanced allowances for the workers at different facilities across the state to motivate the health workforce. Additionally, 123 PHC Centres were renovated/revitalised and upgraded, with the provision of solar-powered boreholes, essential drugs, and medical consumables through various interventions by the State Government, IMPACT Immunisation, the National Primary Care Agency, and the Global Fund.

Zulum approves recruitment of 473 medical personnel .. Orders implementation of 100% rural allowance for doctors Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the immediate recruitment of 473 medical personnel, including doctors, for hospitals across the state. The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Borno State Hospital Management Board, Professor Abubakar Kullima, disclosed this on Thursday in Maiduguri.  The CMD said the approval was to enhance healthcare service delivery in the state with a view to ensuring that residents have improved access to quality medical care. Providing a detailed breakdown of the recruits, Prof. Kullima stated that the governor had approved the employment of a total of 473 health professionals, including medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab scientists, and other critical health workers, to some of the newly commissioned health centres. According to the CMD, the recruitment also covers critical technical and support staff, including approval of primary eye care and perioperative care nurses and chews. This recruitment is the latest in a series of health sector interventions by the Zulum administration.  Governor Zulum had recently approved special training funds for resident doctors and commissioned new health facilities, including eye and dental hospitals, to expand access to specialised health care. The new employees will be deployed to general hospitals and primary health centres across Borno’s three senatorial zones. Meanwhile, Governor Zulum has also directed the immediate implementation of a 100 per cent rural posting allowance for medical doctors and a 40 per cent allowance for nurses working in hard-to-reach areas across the state. The approval was contained in a memo to the Borno State Hospital Management Board which noted that the implementation is designed to attract and retain qualified medical personnel in rural communities in the state. The new policy will double the financial remuneration for doctors who accept postings in rural communities, taking into consideration the challenging service conditions and the critical need for skilled medical staff outside the state capital.

Insecurity: Zulum urges Borno residents to intensify prayers in the last 10 days of Ramadan Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara @ProfZulum, has called on Muslims to use the last ten days of the Holy month of Ramadan to intensify prayers, especially during the night prayers (Tahajjud), for an end to the protracted insecurity tormenting the state. The Governor, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj, said he also led other Muslim ummah in the Holy land in a special prayer session for lasting peace in the state and Nigeria at large. In a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, Zulum said the recent coordinated attacks by Boko Haram insurgents should not in any way dampen the spirit of resilience and unity of purpose to confront the common enemy. “As we usher in the last 10 days of the Holy month of Ramadan, let's intensify prayers to Almighty Allah and beseech Him, through all other acts of worship, to attract His mercies, blessings, and rewards,” Zulum stated. “This is a month of prayers and supplications, let us all renew our faith in the wake of the recent attacks on our communities. I will also participate in special prayers with fellow Muslims in the Holy Land for an end to this protracted conflict. "I also want to call on the Christian community who are also observing Lent to join in the special prayers. The renewed attack should be a unifying factor to confront the common enemy. It is a temporary eclipse, we shall emerge victorious insha Allah," he appealed. While condoling with all those that lost loved ones in the recent attacks, Governor Zulum reassured that Borno State government will continue to provide all the necessary support to the military and other security agencies to end the menace of insurgency and terrorism.

Zulum’s over 1,500 projects, snippet on the commissioning of the Westend flyover and three dual-carriage road networks. #Zulum #ZulumProject #ZulumIsWorking

Zulum Pays Sympathy Visit to Victims of Ngoshe Attack, Assures Rescue of Abducted Residents @BornoGovt State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has commiserated with the people of Ngoshe affected by the recent Boko Haram attack, describing the incident as tragic. Ngoshe, a community in Gwoza local government, was attacked on Tuesday evening, scores were killed, while others were abducted. Addressing members of the community on Friday in Pulka, Governor Zulum said he personally came to sympathize with the affected people and families of those that lost their loved ones. He assured that efforts are underway to rescue all those abducted, restore security, and provide humanitarian support to victims. “We are here today to commiserate with the people of Ngoshe that have lost their loved ones following the unfortunate incident that occurred on Tuesday. The situation is very sad and our hearts go out to all those affected by this tragedy,” Zulum said. “I want to assure you that we will do everything possible to address the unfortunate situation that has befallen this community, and for those who have been abducted, the Nigerian military will do everything within its capacity to rescue them,” Zulum assured. Governor Zulum explained that military operations are currently ongoing in Ngoshe and the Sambisa Forest to rid the area of criminal elements. “There are ongoing military operations within the Sambisa Game Reserve. What we witnessed yesterday was largely a result of insurgents being pushed out from their strongholds, which led them to launch coordinated attacks on nearby communities,” he explained. He called on the Nigerian Army to intensify operations to clear insurgents from the Mandara Hills which he described as a major security threat. “The Mandara Hills remain a major security concern. The insurgents descended from the hills to attack this town. Therefore, I call on the Nigerian Army and the Federal Government to intensify efforts to clear Mandara Hills of insurgents,” Zulum said. The governor noted that the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed as assessments are still ongoing, but acknowledged that several lives were lost while others were abducted. As part of immediate humanitarian intervention, the governor said the state government had begun distributing relief materials and establishing cooking points to provide food for displaced residents. “For now, we will distribute food items to those affected and I have directed that cooking points be established so that everyone in this community can receive meals from a central kitchen,” he said. The governor appealed to residents to remain calm and law-abiding, noting that Borno State government will double its efforts to end this madness. “We shall not relent in our commitment to restoring lasting peace and stability in the state,” he said. “I strongly believe that with sustained military operations and cooperation between all levels of government, we will overcome this challenge. Insha Allah, peace will return fully to our land,” the governor added. Similarly, Governor Babagana Zulum inspected houses burned during an attack by Boko Haram insurgents on Thursday in Konduga town.

PRESS RELEASE/CORRECTION Zulum Appoints Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori, 3 others as Chairman, Board Members, Borno Investment Promotion Agency The earlier statement inadvertently refers to Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori as the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of the Borno State Investment Promotion Agency, rather than the Chairman/Chief Investment Adviser to the Borno State Governor. Therefore, this statement supersedes the earlier one. @BornoGovt State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the appointment of Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori as Chairman/Chief Investment Adviser to the Borno State Governor. Dr. Kori is a consummate entrepreneur and investment and infrastructure finance expert, and holds a PhD in Humanities and Social Sciences with a focus on Intellectual Capital from the University of London, United Kingdom. He serves as the Honorary Special Adviser on International Relations and Investment to the Governor of Yobe State and is the Technical Adviser to the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum. Dr. Kori is currently the Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer of Thinklab Group Limited, a leading innovation and development finance firm. He also serves as the Chairman of the Board for the Nigeria Food Corporation. He has structured financing in excess of $200 million for critical infrastructure in housing, healthcare, and road networks. The appointment is for the initial term of four years. Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has also approved the appointment of Laminu Lawan Awana, Abubakar Ahmed Askira, and Danladi Alfaki Isa as Governing Board members representing the three senatorial zones of the state. This is in accordance with section 6(b) of the Borno State Investment Promotion Law 2026 (as amended). The appointees are seasoned professionals in trade and investment, development financing, housing, and mortgage finance. Other members of the Board include: A representative from each of the following Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, not below the rank of a Director, as Ex-Officio Members: · Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industries · Borno State Geographic Information Service (BOGIS) · Ministry of Works · Ministry of Housing and Energy · Ministry of Justice · Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources · Ministry of Livestock · Ministry of Planning · Ministry of Finance · Ministry of Local Government and Emirate Affairs 2. Two (2) representatives from the Organized Private Sector in Borno State. 3. The Director-General of the Borno State Investment Promotion Agency will serve as the Secretary. All the appointments take immediate effect. Governor Babagana Zulum expressed confidence that, with Dr. Kori's vast experience and the collective expertise of the board members, the state will be positioned as a hub for domestic and foreign investment and will foster viable Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to accelerate the State's economic revitalization and sustainable development. Dauda Iliya Special Adviser to Borno State Governor Media/Spokesperson

PRESS RELEASE Zulum Appoints Dr Sa’id Alkali Kori, 3 others as Director General, Board Members, Borno Investment Promotion Agency @BornoGovt State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum has approved the appointment of Dr Sa’id Alkali Kori as the Director General/Chief Executive Officer of Borno State Investment Promotion Agency. Dr Kori is a consummate entrepreneur and investment and infrastructure finance expert. He holds a PhD in Humanities and Social Sciences with a focus on Intellectual Capital from the University of London, United Kingdom. He serves as the Honorary Special Adviser on International Relations and Investment to the Governor of Yobe State and is the Technical Adviser to the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum. Dr Kori is currently the Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer of Thinklab Group Limited, a leading innovation and development finance firm. He also serves as the Chairman of the Board for Nigeria Food Corporation. He has structured financing in excess of $200 million for critical infrastructure in housing, healthcare, and road networks. The appointment is for the initial term of four years. Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has also approved the appointment of Laminu Lawan Awana, Abubakar Ahmed Askira, and Danladi Alfaki Isa as Governing Board members representing the three senatorial zones of the state. This is in accordance with section 6(b) of the Borno State Investment Promotion Law 2026 (as amended). The appointees are seasoned professionals in trade and investment, development financing, housing, and mortgage finance. Other members of the Board include: A representative from each of the following Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, not below the rank of a Director as Ex-Officio Members: · Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industries · Borno State Geographic Information Service (BOGIS) · Ministry of Works · Ministry of Housing and Energy · Ministry of Justice · Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources · Ministry of Livestock · Ministry of Planning · Ministry of Finance · Ministry of Local Government and Emirate Affairs 2. Two (2) representatives from the Organized Private Sector in Borno State. 3. The Director-General of Borno State Investment Promotion Agency will serve as Secretary. All the appointments take immediate effect. Governor Babagana Zulum expressed confidence that with Dr Kori's vast experience and the collective expertise of the board members, the state will be positioned as a hub for domestic and foreign investment and will foster viable Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to accelerate the state's economic revitalization and sustainable development. Dauda Iliya Special Adviser to Borno State Governor Media/Spokesperson

PRESS RELEASE Zulum Appoints Dr. Mairo Mandara, 23 others as Chairmen and Governing Council Members for Three Colleges of Nursing Sciences Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the appointment of Chairmen and members of the Governing Councils for the Colleges of Nursing Sciences located in Maiduguri, Gwoza, and Monguno. Those appointed are Dr Mairo Mandara, Chief Adviser to Borno State Governor as Chairman of the Governing Council College of Nursing Sciences, Gwoza; Hajiya Hauwa Mustapha, retired local government Secretary and seasoned nurse, as Chairman of the Governing Council College of Nursing Sciences, Maiduguri; and Rukaiya Shettima Kamfut, retired Provost College of Nursing Sciences, Maiduguri, as Chairman of the College of Nursing Sciences, Monguno. The appointments are in line with the provisions of the laws enacted by Borno State House of Assembly establishing the three colleges which mandate the constitution of a Governing Council for each institution. Governor Zulum approved the appointments based on the nominees’ proven records of integrity in public service, educational background, and their demonstrated commitment to community development. According to the provisions of the laws, each Governing Council shall consist of a Chairman and seven other members. Four of the members are statutory, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, the Director of Nursing Services, the Provost of the respective College, and the Registrar who will serve as Secretary of the Council. The remaining three members are to represent community interests and are drawn from the three senatorial districts of the state. The establishment of the governing councils is expected to strengthen institutional governance and enhance the effective management of the Colleges of Nursing Sciences as part of the state government’s broader efforts to improve healthcare manpower development in Borno State. The new governing council members are: COLLEGE OF NURSING SCIENCES, GWOZA Dr Mairo Mandara Chairman I. Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health and Human Services Statutory Member II. Director Nursing Services, Ministry of Health Statutory Member III. Provost Statutory Member IV. Shettima Abdulazeez Member (Borno Central) V. Kaka Ali Member ((Borno North) VI. Mamman Wakili Walama Member (Borno South) VII. Registrar to serve as the Secretary COLLEGE OF NURSING SCIENCES, MAIDUGURI Hauwa Mustapha Chairman I. Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health and Human Services Statutory Member II. Director Nursing Services, Ministry of Health Statutory Member III. Provost Statutory Member IV. Loskuri Gana Grema Member (Borno Central ) V. Shuwaram Lawan Kabu Member (Borno South) VI. Babagana Bulama Member (Borno North) VII. Registrar to serve as the Secretary COLLEGE OF NURSING SCIENCES, MONGUNO Rukaiya Shettima Kanfut Chairman I. Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health and Human Services Statutory Member II. Director Nursing Services Ministry of Health Statutory Member III. Provost College of Nursing Statutory Member IV. Mohammed Bukar Badiya Member (Borno Central) V. Musa Ahmadu Member (Borno North) VI. Adamu Abdu Balbaya Member (Borno South) VII. Registrar to serve as the Secretary Dauda Iliya Special Adviser to Borno State Governor Media/Spokesperson