Zulum Vows to Hand Over Safer, More Prosperous Borno to APC Successor

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum has pledged to leave behind a more secure, stable and economically vibrant state at the end of his tenure, expressing confidence that the gains recorded under his administration would be consolidated by the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Engr. Mustapha Gubio.

Speaking at the Government House in Maiduguri while receiving a high-powered delegation of prominent sons and daughters of Gubio Local Government Area, Zulum said his administration remains focused on overcoming the state’s security challenges and strengthening the foundations for sustainable development before the transition of power in 2027.

The delegation, led by elder statesman Alhaji Gambo Gubio, visited the governor alongside the APC governorship candidate to express appreciation and solidarity following his emergence as the party’s flag bearer.

Despite acknowledging that insecurity remains the greatest challenge confronting Borno, the governor expressed optimism that the situation would improve significantly before the end of his administration.

“Security is the most difficult issue. Insha Allah, before I leave office, the situation will be better than it is today. I will hand over a more stable, more prosperous and more secure government to Engr. Mustapha Gubio,” Zulum declared.

The governor said governance goes beyond attaining success, noting that preserving and expanding achievements requires even greater commitment, discipline and leadership.

“What matters is not only achieving success but sustaining it. Managing success is often more difficult than attaining it. Governing Borno State is not an easy task, but with collective support, prayers and guidance, God will grant him the wisdom and strength to succeed,” he said.

Zulum used the occasion to publicly endorse the leadership qualities of the APC candidate, describing Gubio as a man of proven integrity whose calm disposition and character have distinguished him over the years.

According to the governor, he has known the APC standard-bearer for more than two decades, dating back to his days as a student at the University of Maiduguri.

“His integrity is unquestionable. He is humane, humble, composed and dedicated. By the grace of God, he possesses the qualities needed to provide leadership for Borno State,” Zulum said.

The governor also reflected on the enormous challenges he faced upon assuming office in 2019 at a time when the state was grappling with a protracted insurgency, humanitarian crises and widespread displacement.

Recalling the intensity of the early days of his administration, Zulum revealed the personal sacrifices he made in responding to the emergency situation across the state.

“When I assumed office, the challenges were overwhelming. Within the first 55 days of my administration, I saw my children only three times. The first four years were extremely difficult, but with the help of Almighty Allah, we have begun to see light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.

He stressed that while significant progress has been made in rebuilding communities, restoring livelihoods and improving public infrastructure, sustained efforts would be required to secure lasting peace and prosperity.

Zulum thanked the delegation for the visit and urged citizens to continue praying for the peace, unity and development of the state.

“As Muslims, when we seek Allah’s guidance and pray for what is best, we must accept His decision wholeheartedly, knowing that whatever He chooses is ultimately best for us,” he said.

Earlier, leader of the delegation, Alhaji Gambo Gubio, commended Governor Zulum for what he described as his decisive role in the emergence of Engr. Mustapha Gubio as the APC candidate for the 2027 governorship election.

He said the people of Gubio were deeply grateful for the confidence reposed in their son and pledged their unwavering support for the party and its candidate.

“We are here to express our profound appreciation. Words alone cannot adequately convey our gratitude. We remain sincerely thankful for this historic opportunity,” Gambo said.

Describing the APC candidate as a worthy ambassador of Gubio, the elder statesman expressed confidence that he possesses the capacity and experience required to lead the state.

He also praised Governor Zulum’s stewardship, particularly in the areas of security, infrastructure development, humanitarian intervention and governance reforms.

“Governor Zulum is succeeding. His achievements are visible across the state, and the people appreciate the sacrifices he has made in difficult circumstances,” he said.

The visit was attended by several top government officials and political leaders, including Chairman of the Borno State Civil Service Commission, Dr. Bulama Mali Gubio; former House of Representatives member, Hon. Fanta Baba Shehu; Executive Chairman of Gubio Local Government, Hon. Mali Bulama Mali; APC State Chairman, Hon. Bello Ayuba; Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Bukar Tijani; Acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mustapha Malumbe; commissioners, special advisers and other senior government functionaries.

The governor’s remarks come at a crucial political moment as preparations gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, with attention increasingly focused on the future leadership and security trajectory of Nigeria’s insurgency-hit North-East region.