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ZULUM@56: Footprints in Leadership

By: Inuwa Bwala
At the risk of restating what has been said before, I say that, one of the greatest legacies, Kashim Shettima, Nigeria’s current Vice President, left for Borno state, was in discovering the hidden potentials in Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, and propping him up as Governor.
No doubt, Babagana Umara Zulum has been an excellent academicianbut I know that leadership courses may be taught in the classroom, but leadership qualities can not be learnt in the classroom. Education may refine personalities, but such attributes are essentially products outside academic learning.
Leadership qualities are personality traits shaped and reshaped over time, from ones upbringing, experiences, and exposures.
One cannot therefore say, that, even as a Professor of Engineering, Borno state Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum developed his leadership accumen from the academics alone. His early life played a greater role in bringing out the best in this leader servant.
Many people did not give him a chance in a highly sophisticated political environment like Borno. Not especially with his perceived lack of experience and the circumstances on the ground, where no citizen goes to sleep with both eyes closed.
But the story has changed since, and the virtual darkhorse: that Babagana Zulum was, has become the song on the lips of the people of Borno, Nigeria, and the International community.
If not because the tenure of political office is prescribed by law, many citizens would yarn for him to continue.
As we count down, beaming the searchlight for a successor in the next two years, the dilemma is who could fit his shoes and reach the raised bar.
I overheard him saying recently that, “I may not have succeeded in taking Borno to where I hoped to, but I am hopeful that God will bring somebody after me, who will do better than we have done”.
Those words, pregnant as they were, defines the type of leader Borno state Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zull, is.
He has proved bookmakers wrong and
there are very strong indications, that,he may have just begun ascending.
In the face of the serious challenges facing Borno State, there is light at the end of the tunnel, and it is only a matter of time before the state gets out of the doldrum.
Unlike others, Zulum does not need hired hands to tell his success stories, as the name of the Borno State helmsman is today the beautiful lyrics on the lips of most Nigerians, when you talk of leadership.
While some may say that, the security situation, cum the living conditions of most Nigerians leave little or no room for celebrations, those who may have witnessed the ugly days under which Zulum started to date, may agree with me, that we have every reason to smile.
Nigerians do not need to listen to, read, or watch Babagana Umara Zulum, as most of them are by now familiar with his leadership style. Ask most Nigerians on the street, and they are bound to single out Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, as one of the best. One can not fault the Governor either if he beats his chest, for making his mark even in the face of the daunting challenges posed by Boko Haram and ISWAP.

Against the national outcry, that the problems of Nigeria oscillate around leadership, Zulum did not leave anybody in doubt from inception that, he would make the difference in leadership.

It is no longer news that, Borno has been the epicenter of Boko Haram activities in the last sixteen years. It is also a fact that the chunk of the state’s resources, under successive regimes since the outbreak of the insurgency have gone into managing the situation and rebuilding damaged infrastructure but for the Governor to make achievements, even ahead of other, who virtually had no challenges, calls for celebrating him.
The creation of the Ministry of Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Resettlement, RRR, with Zulum as its pioneer head, may not have come at a better time, and indeed, these Ministry has continued to make impacts, long after he left.
For a very long time to come, and long after he may have gone as the governor, the people of Borno state shall always pay tribute to the exceptional vision of Zulum and indeed his predecessor, Senator Kashim Shettima.
Professor Zulum’s exposure at the Ministry of RRR, was not an academic course, but it may have prepared him very well for leadership and for the job of the Governor.
He assumed office with a clearly defined goal, which he combined with his passion for peace and development. In fact, those who often analyse his ten point agenda always focus on peace and development as the fulcrum.
Chronicles of his achievements will be quick to point out that, the immediate task Zulum set out to achieve on assuming office, has been the restoration of peace in areas most affected by the insurgency and the resettlement of displaced people to their ancestral abodes.
In doing this, Zulum embarked on agressive rebuilding of structures into which the returnees will settle, even as he pushes for the annihilation of Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists, by complementing Military efforts with civilian components, including local hunters, vigilantes and Civilian Joint Task Force volunteers.
I have said it before, that, Zulum took some very risksy adventures in visiting the epicentre of the emergency, along with the military, for which he has been attacked several times.
People often wonder where he gets the resources to undertake some of the tasks when they see him rebuilding communities and giving out palliatives to displaced people and returnees.
While it may be true that the hinterland had recently experienced a resurgence, it is also a truism that, a visitor to Maiduguri and major towns in Borno can attest to the rapid infrastructural transformations taking place under the governor. I have heard people refer to Maiduguri as the new Dubai because of the changing face of the ancient city.
Those whose job it is to compile Governor Zulum’s leadership report sheet will tell us the remaining story, but as he marks his 56th birthday and as he celebrates his midway journey as governor, I wish to correct certain erroneous notions and state that, the story of despair amongst citizens, as being painted in some quaters do not reflect the true situation in Borno.
I state without any fear of contradiction, that we have crossed the Rubicon, and the future of a peaceful and progressive Borno under Governor Babagana Umara Zulum is a reality.
Happy birthday and congratulations to the people of Borno.

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2026: Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Group Dismisses ‘Tinubu Must Go’ Campaign

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The Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network for Tinubu 2027 has dismissed claims that a so-called “Tinubu Must Go” campaign is gaining meaningful traction in Northern Nigeria, describing the narrative as exaggerated and disconnected from the realities on the ground.

In a statement signed by Hon. Ali Oriri, the network declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to enjoy solid and expanding support across the North due to ongoing infrastructure delivery, security gains and economic reforms that are beginning to yield results for ordinary citizens.

According to the group, attempts to project isolated discontent as a widespread northern revolt ignore the substantial work being done by the administration and the loyalty of key stakeholders who recognise the difficult but necessary decisions taken since 2023.

The network said its mobilisation efforts are already consolidating grassroots structures in preparation for the 2027 elections.

“The so-called Tinubu Must Go movement is making noise, but noise is not the same as organised political strength,” Oriri stated.

“What we see in the North is growing appreciation for the roads being constructed, the power projects advancing, and the renewed focus on security that is gradually restoring confidence in many communities.”

He added: “President Tinubu inherited deep structural problems. The reforms he embarked upon were tough, but they are laying the foundation for a stronger economy.

“Our network is on the ground educating our people on these realities and organising them for 2027.”

The Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network for Tinubu 2027 emphasised that Northern Nigeria remains a critical political base and that genuine engagement with traditional institutions, youth groups, women organisations and local political actors is already yielding positive responses.

Oriri noted that the network is working closely with like-minded stakeholders to counter misinformation and highlight measurable progress in infrastructure and security across the region.

He pointed to major highway projects, rail developments and increased investment in the security architecture as evidence that the administration is addressing the very concerns being exploited by critics.

The group insisted that any assessment of public mood in the North must go beyond selective voices and examine the broader picture of development and stability efforts.

“We are not blind to the challenges of cost of living and insecurity. No serious person is,” Oriri said.

“But we also see the deliberate investments in roads that link our markets, the push to improve electricity transmission, and the operational successes being recorded by our security agencies. These are not imaginary.”

“The people of the North understand that sustainable progress requires continuity of purposeful leadership.

“That is why the Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network is mobilising support for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027,” he continued.

Oriri further accused promoters of the “Tinubu Must Go” campaign of seeking to capitalise on temporary hardships without offering a coherent alternative that addresses the root causes of Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.

He maintained that the network’s approach is rooted in constructive engagement rather than opportunistic agitation.

According to the statement, the group will intensify town-hall meetings, community outreaches and stakeholder consultations across northern states in the coming months to deepen understanding of the administration’s policies and consolidate electoral structures.

“Our loyalty is to the Nigerian people and to the progress that is being made under this administration,” Oriri declared.

“We will not allow a campaign built on frustration alone to define the political conversation in the North.

“President Tinubu has shown the courage to take hard decisions. The Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network for Tinubu 2027 stands firmly with him because we believe continuity is essential for the gains already recorded in infrastructure and security to be fully realised,” he concluded.

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APC PCC Appoints Hafiz Kawu Director of Grassroots Engagement, Mobilisation

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) has appointed Hon. Hafiz Muhammad Kawu Ibrahim, OON, mni, as Director of Grassroots Engagement and Mobilisation, entrusting the former lawmaker and public administrator with the crucial responsibility of strengthening the party’s connection with supporters and voters across the country.
The appointment is widely viewed as a strategic move by the ruling party to reinforce its grassroots structures and deepen engagement at the ward, local government and state levels ahead of future political contests. As Director of Grassroots Engagement and Mobilisation, Kawu is expected to coordinate outreach programmes, grassroots campaigns and stakeholder engagement initiatives aimed at expanding the party’s support base nationwide.
A seasoned politician with extensive experience in governance and public service, Hafiz Kawu previously served as Special Assistant in the Office of former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo before representing Tarauni Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives between 2019 and 2023 under the platform of the APC.
During his time in public office, he earned a reputation for grassroots development, constituency engagement and people-oriented representation. His political journey has been marked by active involvement in community empowerment programmes, youth development initiatives and sustained interactions with party supporters at the grassroots level. Reports on his public service record consistently highlight his commitment to maintaining close ties with constituents and promoting inclusive development.
Political observers say these attributes make him a natural fit for the role. Grassroots mobilisation remains one of the most critical components of electoral success in Nigeria, and many within the APC believe Kawu’s experience, accessibility and understanding of local political dynamics position him well to lead the party’s engagement efforts across diverse communities.
Beyond his legislative experience, Kawu currently serves as Executive Commissioner (Technical) at the National Pension Commission (PenCom), a position that further reflects his administrative competence and policy experience.
Supporters of the APC have expressed confidence that his leadership will further energise the party’s grassroots machinery, particularly among youths, women and first-time voters. They believe his ability to engage communities directly and communicate government policies in relatable terms will help strengthen public participation and reinforce support for the ruling party’s agenda.
A recipient of the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) and a member of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Hafiz Muhammad Kawu Ibrahim brings both political experience and institutional knowledge to his new role.
With this appointment, the APC appears to have placed a trusted grassroots operator at the heart of its mobilisation strategy, underscoring the party’s recognition of the pivotal role grassroots engagement will play in shaping its future electoral fortunes. For many within the ruling party, Hafiz Kawu’s emergence as Director of Grassroots Engagement and Mobilisation represents not only a reward for years of service but also an investment in a political figure widely regarded as capable of connecting government policies with the aspirations of the people.

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Eggon Political Forum Endorses Ombugadu as Consensus Candidate for 2027 Nasarawa Governorship Race

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In what many observers are describing as a watershed moment in the political history of Nasarawa State, the Eggon Political Forum has officially endorsed Rt. Hon. Dr. David Emmanuel Ombugadu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the consensus candidate of the Eggon Nation for the 2027 governorship election.The announcement was made at a grand assembly held at Albert Event Hall in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, where leaders, stakeholders, and representatives of diverse groups gathered to deliberate on the future of Eggon political aspirations. The Forum, a non-partisan body devoted to fostering unity and political stability among the Eggon people, emphasized that the decision was the product of months of consultations, assessments, and feedback from across the state and beyond.The Forum acknowledged that six prominent Eggon sons had secured party tickets for the governorship contest, namely: Hon. Shuaibu Umaru Kubi (ACCORD), Gen. Nuhu Angbazo (ADC), Hon. Chris Mamman (ADP), Hon. Ibrahim Kassimu Aboh (APGA), Rt. Hon. Dr. David Emmanuel Ombugadu (PDP), and Mr. John Tanko Kigbu (YPP). While commending all six candidates for their courage and commitment to public service, the Forum explained that the need for unity and collective interest compelled them to adopt a single candidate. This, they argued, would prevent the fragmentation of Eggon votes and strengthen the community’s chances of producing the next governor of Nasarawa State.According to the communiqué, the Forum’s assessment was guided by several political considerations: party stability, grassroots presence, popularity across the state, structural strength of the political platforms, track records in previous positions of responsibility, governance experience, and manifesto credibility. On these grounds, Ombugadu was adjudged to be the most suitable candidate, having demonstrated consistency, political maturity, and a broad appeal across Nasarawa State.In a communiqué signed by Alh. Umaru Gwamna (Cingarin Eggon), Chairman of the Forum, and Hon. Chief Istifanus Dennis Abaku (Dan Masani Akun / Uban Garin Ende), Secretary, the Forum appealed to the other five Eggon candidates to rally behind Ombugadu in the spirit of unity. “We respectfully appeal to the five other candidates to kindly support and rally round the adopted candidate to ensure victory in the forthcoming elections,” the Forum declared.The Forum further extended its appeal to other ethnic nationalities in Nasarawa State, urging them to align with the Eggon people in supporting Ombugadu’s candidature. It stressed that while divergent interests are natural in politics, the collective interest of the land must remain supreme.Shortly after the endorsement, the Forum led a high-powered delegation to the palace of the Aren Eggon, His Royal Highness Justice Ahmed Ubangari Alaku, to formally notify him of the resolution. Speaking on behalf of the Forum, Chairman Alh. Umaru Gwamna briefed the paramount ruler on the aims and objectives of the Forum and explained the decision to adopt Ombugadu as the consensus candidate. He emphasized that the Forum deemed it necessary to seek the royal father’s advice and blessings as the Eggon Nation embarks on this united political journey.In his response, the Aren Eggon commended the Forum for its efforts to unite the Eggon people and described Ombugadu as a “blessed son of the Eggon Nation” who has consistently made his people proud. He noted that Ombugadu is not only an asset to the Eggon Nation but to Nasarawa State at large, wishing him success in the forthcoming governorship election. His Royal Highness also admonished all Eggon candidates and their supporters to shun politics of bitterness, propaganda, blackmail, and hatred, reminding them that leadership ultimately comes from God. “We as men can only do our human arrangements, but God alone can make it happen,” he cautioned.The royal father concluded by offering his blessings and wishing Ombugadu well in his political pursuit.The endorsement and royal affirmation are being hailed as a historic opportunity for the Eggon Nation, which has long aspired to produce the governor of Nasarawa State. With unity of purpose and the backing of traditional authority, the Forum expressed optimism that 2027 could mark the realization of this dream. Political analysts note that the move could significantly reshape the dynamics of the forthcoming election, as the Eggon people constitute one of the largest ethnic groups in the state. By consolidating their support behind a single candidate, the Forum hopes to maximize their influence and bargaining power in the wider political landscape.The Eggon Political Forum’s decision underscores the importance of unity, consultation, and collective interest in the pursuit of political power. As the countdown to the 2027 governorship election begins, all eyes will be on Rt. Hon. Dr. David Emmanuel Ombugadu, who now carries not only the weight of Eggon aspirations but also the blessings of their revered traditional ruler.

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