The Southern Borno Concerned Citizens Forum (SBCC) has commended Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for what it described as exemplary leadership and transformative governance, particularly in communities recovering from the effects of insurgency.
The commendation was made during a public lecture held in Maiduguri on Saturday with the theme: “Transformative Leadership in Post-Conflict Zones: A Case Study of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s Impact in Borno State.”
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the SBCC Board of Trustees and chief host, Ali Abubakar Jatau, said the lecture was organised to recognise good governance, promote civic consciousness, and encourage inclusive participation in the rebuilding process of the state.
“We have every reason to continuously celebrate and appreciate Governor Zulum. His achievements are visible and impactful throughout Borno State,” he said.
The lecture featured presentations on key sectors including education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and the resettlement of displaced persons.
Borno State Head of Service, Dr Mohammed Aminu Guluze, presented a paper titled “Civil Servants as Catalysts: The Role of Public Servants in Advancing Governor Zulum’s Vision for a Stronger Borno,” highlighting the importance of professionalism and meritocracy in the state’s civil service.
“Under Governor Zulum’s leadership, the civil service is becoming more responsive and efficient. He has set a clear example by insisting on merit and accountability,” Guluze said.
Also speaking, Professor Abdullahi Dauda, Chairman of the Lake Chad Basin Development Authority, delivered a lecture on “Reviving Agriculture in Post-Insurgency Borno.” He said the governor’s initiatives in the agricultural sector were reducing dependence on humanitarian aid and restoring livelihoods.
“Food security is a critical element in stabilising rural communities. The governor’s support for farmers and rural cooperatives is already yielding results,” he added.
Usman Balbaya, popularly known as Maidoki and National Patron of the SBCC, presented a paper titled “Educating for Peace and Progress,” applauding the state government’s educational reforms aimed at fostering long-term peace.
“Governor Zulum has made education a priority. He has rebuilt schools, provided learning materials, and supported civic education to redirect our youth,” he said.
Another speaker, Dr Zannah Hassan Baguma, in a paper titled “One Borno, One People: Reaffirming Brotherhood Between Southern, Northern and Central Borno,” called for unity and reconciliation across the state’s geopolitical zones.
“The road to full recovery requires collective effort. We must embrace reconciliation and see each other as partners in progress,” Baguma stated.
Other contributors, including Malam Dauda Iliya, Ibrahim Haruna (Ibsy), and Dr Ahmed Ahidjo, reaffirmed their support for the Zulum administration, citing its commitment to rebuilding communities and restoring dignity to affected populations.
In his remarks, National Chairman of the SBCC and convener of the lecture, Bulama Sawa, appreciated the participants for their attendance and support.
“This public lecture is a sincere expression of appreciation for a governor who has remained committed to justice, equity, and the development of all zones in the state,” Sawa said.
The event also featured goodwill messages from several stakeholders, including Hon Zannah Mari Biu, Dr Fatima Buba, Hajiya Maimuna, Hon Joe Nuhu Clerk, and Hon Musa Bello Musa, who all emphasised the importance of documenting and celebrating the achievements of the Zulum administration as a model of post-conflict governance.
