Borno Strengthens Business Reforms to Boost Investment Climate

The Borno State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building a business-friendly environment that encourages private sector participation, economic inclusivity and sustainable development.

The commitment was restated during the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) meeting organised by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development under the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) framework.

The meeting, which brought together stakeholders from financial institutions, trade unions, regulatory agencies and business associations, forms part of efforts to develop the 2026 Business Enabling Reforms Action Plan.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development said the initiative reflects the vision of Gov. Babagana Umara Zulum to strengthen institutional efficiency and improve the investment climate in the state.

He said the SABER framework provides a strategic platform for multi-sectoral dialogue where key stakeholders engage to identify constraints, propose solutions and co-create reform strategies that drive economic growth.

“The Zulum administration believes that economic recovery, resilience and prosperity are only achievable when policies are implemented in collaboration with the private sector, which remains the engine of growth,” the commissioner said.

He explained that the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development coordinates the SABER initiative in the state to ensure alignment with national and World Bank-led indicators for improving the business environment.

According to him, one of the significant milestones of Borno’s Ease of Doing Business drive is the transformation of land administration through the Borno State Geographic Information System (BOGIS), led by its Executive Secretary, Engr. Adam Bukar Bababe.

He noted that through BOGIS, land registration, titling and documentation processes have been digitised, reducing processing time, improving transparency and enhancing investor confidence.

“This efficiency in land transactions has become a model for other states, reinforcing Borno’s commitment to leveraging technology for public service delivery and business facilitation,” he added.

He also commended the dedication of the Borno SABER team, noting the contributions of key members such as Maryam Shehu, Special Technical Assistant to the Governor; Barr. Ardo Buba, Head of Legal at the Borno State Internal Revenue Service; and Shehu Yakubu Gana, the SABER Focal Person.

The commissioner further acknowledged the active participation of stakeholders from the banking sector, business associations and trade unions in shaping policy reforms that reflect the realities of entrepreneurs and investors.

He said the synergy between the government and private sector remains vital to sustaining growth and ensuring that reforms translate into tangible economic benefits for the people of Borno.