Successful Council Polls: BOSIEC Hands Over Certificates to Newly Elected LG Leaders

Successful Council Polls: BOSIEC Hands Over Certificates to Newly Elected LG Leaders

The Borno State Independent Electoral Commission (BOSIEC) has successfully conducted the Local Government Elections held on 13th December 2025, covering elections into the offices of Chairmen and Vice Chairmen across the 27 Local Government Areas, as well as Councillorship seats in all political wards of the state.

In continuation of the credible electoral process, the Commission on Thursday issued Certificates of Return to all elected Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and Councillors at a ceremony held at the State Hotel, Maiduguri.

The programme commenced with welcome remarks by a Permanent Member of the Commission, Alhaji Zannah Garga, who appreciated stakeholders for their cooperation and collective efforts that ensured the success of the elections.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Kamselem Umar of the University of Maiduguri highlighted the constitutional role of State Independent Electoral Commissions in strengthening grassroots democracy. He described the 13th December 2025 Local Government Elections as one of the most credible and well-coordinated council polls in the country, praising BOSIEC’s organisation, transparency, and inclusive stakeholder engagement. According to him, political parties, civil society organisations, and the media were actively involved in voter sensitisation, while the transparent mobilisation and dispatch of election materials and the peaceful conduct of the polls earned commendation from independent observers.

In his address before the presentation of certificates, the Executive Chairman of BOSIEC, Dr. Tahiru Shettima, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for the support provided to the Commission, describing it as a clear demonstration of the Governor’s commitment to democracy, good governance, and the rule of law. He also commended the teamwork and dedication of the Commission’s board members and staff, noting that their collective effort was a key driver of the successful election. Dr. Shettima further acknowledged the critical role played by security agencies, including the Nigeria Police,CJTF, hunters, and vigilante groups, in ensuring a peaceful and orderly process.

Certificates of Return were thereafter presented to all duly elected Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and Councillors, with a call on them to justify the confidence reposed in them by their constituents through transparent, accountable, and people-oriented leadership.

Speaking on behalf of all elected officials, the Chairman-elect of Maiduguri Metropolitan Council Hon Ali Bolori delivered a vote of thanks, assuring the Commission and the people of Borno State of their commitment to uphold the rule of law, democratic values, and effective grassroots governance.

BORNO GOVERNMENT, CWI, AND PARTNERS COMMEMORATE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CLIMATE ACTION 2025

Create a Wonderful World Initiative (CWI) in collaboration with the  Borno State Government, through the Borno State Agency for the Great Green Wall (BOAGGW) and the Coordinated Climate Response Team - a network of CSOs and NGO's focused on climate action in Borno State  on Thursday commemorated the International Day of Climate Action 2025 with a one-day event themed “Addressing Climate Change for a Sustainable Future.”

The event, held at the Armani Event Centre in Maiduguri, brought together government officials, development partners, civil society organizations, community leaders, and students to raise awareness and strengthen collaboration on climate action in Borno State.

In her welcome address, the Executive Director of the Create a Wonderful World Initiative (CWI), Maryam Jabbo, expressed appreciation to all partners and participants for their commitment to environmental advocacy. She described the commemoration as the first of its kind in Borno State and a significant milestone in building a sustainable and climate-conscious society in the state.

“This event brings together young people, community leaders, innovators, and organizations united by a single purpose – to take action for our climate. As we witness the growing impacts of climate change in our communities, it becomes more urgent than ever to transform awareness into action and ideas into solutions,” she said.

Delivering a goodwill message, a representative of the Borno State Ministry of Environment commended the organizers for creating a platform that amplifies the voices of young people in climate advocacy. The Ministry reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with partners in promoting environmental sustainability and climate education across the state.

In his remarks, the Director General of the Borno State Agency for the Great Green Wall (BOAGGW), Ambassador Usman Aliyu, highlighted the state government’s ongoing commitment under Governor Babagana Umara Zulum to tackling climate change through massive tree planting campaigns, community sensitization, and sustainable land restoration initiatives. He announced plans to establish environmental clubs in schools to engage young people in climate advocacy and education.

“We must continue to educate our children and communities about climate change so that everyone becomes part of the solution,” Amb. Usman emphasized.

The Speaker of the Borno State Children’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Fatima Chiroma Zannah, in her address, advocated for the integration of climate education into school curricula and encouraged children to become active agents of environmental protection in their communities.

The event featured a children’s panel discussion involving students from Ruby Springfield College, Shehu Garbai Secondary School, Indimi Integrated School, Future Assured Academy, and Tijjani Bolori secondary School, who discussed the causes and effects of climate change and suggested that awareness should be enhanced through school programs and social media engagement.

Highlight of the event was an art exhibition titled "Art for Climate Challenge" under the project " Educating Young Climate Change Champions for a Better Tomorrow " which is being implemented by Create a Wonderful World Initiative (CWI). The "Art for Climate Challenge " is an innovation to unleash students artistic potentials in line with climate action. The Art works depicts realities of Climate change and how it affects children and the future they dream of. 

Three outstanding art works were awarded with eco-friendly gifts and art kits, all art for climate challenge participants received certificates and schools also received certificates  of appreciation for supporting their students.

Poetry presentations, Climate action fair also added color to the occasion. 

The second panel session provided an opportunity for young people, youth-led organizations, and community leaders to discuss their roles in advancing climate action and to share indigenous approaches to addressing environmental challenges in Borno State.

The event concluded with the signing of a Climate Pledge Wall where every participant pledged their commitment to climate action, a closing remark by CAYEI, and a group photograph and networking session, symbolizing a collective commitment to advancing climate action for a sustainable and resilient Borno.

The commemoration underscored the growing synergy between government institutions, civil society, and young people in promoting local climate initiatives and sustainable environmental practices.

Zulum Strengthens Healthcare Reform, Flags Off Civil Servants’ Enrollment into Contributory Scheme

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has taken yet another decisive step in strengthening Borno State’s healthcare system with the official flag-off of the Formal Sector Contributory Healthcare Scheme for civil servants. The event, held at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, marks a major stride in the administration’s drive toward achieving universal health coverage and safeguarding the wellbeing of government employees.

The initiative, implemented through the Borno State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (BOSCHMA), is designed to ease the financial burden of healthcare on civil servants while ensuring access to affordable and quality medical services for them and their families.

In his address, delivered on behalf of the Governor by the Secretary to the State Government, Mallam Bukar Tijjani, Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s determination to build a resilient and inclusive health system capable of meeting the needs of every citizen. He described the contributory scheme as a long-term investment in the productivity and welfare of the state workforce.

The Chairperson of the BOSCHMA Board, Hajiya Mairo Bunu Lawan, praised the governor’s commitment to human development through progressive health reforms, noting that the scheme will not only improve access to healthcare but also strengthen confidence in the public health system.

On his part, Dr. Saleh Abba Kaza, Executive Secretary of BOSCHMA, outlined the modalities for the enrollment process and highlighted the broad benefits available to registered workers. He announced that BOSCHMA, in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), will provide free NIN registration for those yet to obtain it and will also capture the children of enrollees at no cost.

The Head of Service, Dr. Mohammed Ghuluze, commended the effort, describing it as a practical reflection of the Zulum administration’s holistic approach to governance one that prioritizes the welfare of the workforce alongside service delivery reforms.

The enrollment exercise will continue throughout the week at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development before BOSCHMA teams move to various ministries, departments, and agencies to register remaining civil servants.

Through such reforms, Governor Zulum continues to reposition Borno State’s health sector toward sustainability, efficiency, and inclusivity—ensuring that quality healthcare is not a privilege but a right for all.

Sultan Mubarak International Academy Emerges First Runner-Up at Maiduguri Quiz & Essay Competition

Sultan Mubarak International Academy Emerges First Runner-Up at Maiduguri Quiz & Essay Competition

November 2, 2025 – Maiduguri, Borno State:

Brilliance and excellence took center stage as Sultan Mubarak International Academy emerged First Runner-Up at the 2025 Quiz and Essay Competition held on Saturday, 1st November 2025, at the Arabic Teachers College, Maiduguri.

The keenly contested event, organized in collaboration with the Borno State Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Muslim Corpers’ Association of Nigeria (MCAN), Young Leadership Association of Borno (YLAB), Harmony Revival Network, Better Aid Foundation, and Al-Ansar Radio & TV, brought together 20 schools across Maiduguri in a showcase of knowledge, creativity, and confidence.

Abubakar Muhammad from the Ibrahim Sheriff Institute for Qur’anic Recitation emerged as the overall winner, while Hauwa Ahmad Shehu of Sultan Mubarak International Academy proudly secured the First Runner-Up position, earning widespread praise for her eloquence, composure, and intellectual depth.

The competition drew dignitaries from the education sector, NGOs, civil society, and the media, who commended all participating schools for their dedication, teamwork, and academic excellence.

Organizers lauded the winners for their remarkable performance, describing them as “a shining example of disciplined learning, moral integrity, and intellectual brilliance in Borno State.”

Bego Unveils Governor Buni’s Kidney Care Initiative at PGF Strategy Summit in Maiduguri

The Yobe State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Abdullahi Bego, has unveiled a comprehensive kidney care initiative introduced by His Excellency, Governor Mai Mala Buni, aimed at tackling the rising cases of kidney-related diseases across the state.

Bego made the announcement during the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) Commissioners of Information Quarterly Strategy Summit, held in Maiduguri, Borno State, from October 14 to 16, 2025.

According to him, the initiative builds on the free kidney dialysis program first introduced by former Governor Ibrahim Geidam, which has now been sustained and expanded under Governor Buni’s administration.

As part of the new effort, Governor Buni has supported the establishment of a Biomedical Research and Training Centre (Bio-RTC) at Yobe State University, which is currently conducting a statewide study to determine the causes and prevalence of kidney diseases—especially in the northern parts of the state, including Bade, Jakusko, Yusufari, and Yunusari.

“The government is determined to understand the root causes of this recurring health challenge and to find a lasting, scientific solution that will save lives,” Bego stated.

He further disclosed that Governor Buni plans to establish a specialized Kidney Care Hospital in Gashua, to provide advanced renal treatment and dialysis services closer to the people of northern Yobe.

Bego described the initiative as a reflection of the governor’s compassion and commitment to citizens’ welfare, noting that the ongoing free dialysis services at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital in Damaturu have already provided immense relief to many patients.

“The governor’s vision is to ensure that no Yobe citizen suffers or dies due to lack of access to kidney care,” Bego emphasized.

We Must Expand Access Now": Stakeholders Demand Increased Mental Health Services in Conflict Zones

"We Must Expand Access Now": Stakeholders Demand Increased Mental Health Services in Conflict Zones

Wednesday October 8, 2025

In a united front, government leaders, health experts, and international partners today issued a compelling call for expanded mental health access in Nigeria's conflict-affected regions, declaring that current services remain critically inadequate for communities grappling with trauma and displacement.

The gathering at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Maiduguri, commemorating World Mental Health Day 2025, became a platform for urgent appeals under the theme "Access to Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies."

Dr. Tunde Ojo, National Coordinator for the National Mental Health Programme, emphasized the critical need for wider reach: "We must not just do something at the national level but come to the solidarity front line. The ability of affected populations to access essential mental health support remains inadequate, and this demands our immediate action."

Echoing this urgency, Dr. Goni Imam, representing the Borno State Government, stressed that "we need to collaborate and come together to strengthen the health system, particularly the aspect of mental health." He outlined practical strategies to increase access, including "integrating all services with mental health" to ensure care reaches even the most remote and vulnerable communities.

The host institution's leader, Dr. Umar Baba Musami, reinforced the call to action, stating that the hospital is working continuously "to ensure that no one is left behind in mental health services." He emphasized that expanding access means making services "available, affordable, and equitable, even under crisis conditions."

International partners, including the World Health Organization and International Committee of the Red Cross, joined the appeal, pledging support to help bridge the access gap in hard-to-reach areas. They emphasized that without substantial improvements in service availability, the mental health crisis in conflict-affected regions would continue to worsen.

The consensus among all stakeholders highlighted three crucial pathways to improved access: integrating mental health into primary care systems, training more frontline health workers, and developing community-based approaches that overcome barriers of stigma and infrastructure.

As the event concluded, the message was clear: expanding mental health access in Nigeria's conflict zones is not just a priority but an emergency that demands immediate, coordinated action from all sectors.

Resilient Leadership in Trying Times: Zulum Must Stay the Course

By Aliyu Mohammed Tong 

Leadership is rarely defined in moments of peace and prosperity; it is tested in adversity. For Borno State, the last decade has been a trial of survival. The Boko Haram insurgency brought destruction, displacement, and despair, leaving development indices at alarming levels. When Professor Babagana Umara Zulum assumed office as Governor on May 29, 2019, the state stood on the edge of collapse.

Six years on, Governor Zulum has demonstrated what many thought impossible resilience, focus, and results. From his first days in office, he made bold choices: responding to humanitarian crises, restoring education, rebuilding infrastructure, and introducing stabilization measures to restore confidence. His style of leadership is simple, direct, and people-centered earned him trust far beyond political lines.

Today, the impact is visible. Displaced communities are gradually returning to their homes. Schools and health facilities are reopening. Roads are being reconstructed, agriculture revived, and hope restored. International partners now point to Borno not only as a symbol of crisis but increasingly as an example of recovery.

But with progress comes resistance. Governor Zulum’s achievements have unsettled many who thrived in chaos or relied on patronage without accountability. Some feel threatened by his effectiveness; others, whose weaknesses have been exposed, now seek to undermine him. Opposition, therefore, is not confined to political rivals outside his party it also comes from within. These are voices of distraction, not of progress.

This is where resilience must prevail. Governor Zulum must not allow detractors to derail the mission. The people of Borno have already seen the fruits of his sacrifice. What remains is to consolidate these gains and ensure that when his tenure ends, a solid succession plan is in place to secure continuity.

For citizens and stakeholders, the responsibility is equally clear: stand by the Governor. Protect the legacy of progress already achieved. Reject those who trade in negativity, and support policies that put people above politics. Borno cannot afford to slide back into uncertainty because of the ambitions of a few.

As the old wisdom says, “The tree that bears fruit will always attract stones.” The stones being thrown at Governor Zulum are proof that his leadership is producing results. They are not reasons to retreat they are reminders to stay the course.

Borno’s story is one of resilience. Its leader today embodies that spirit. And if resilience continues to guide governance, then the Zulum years will be remembered not just as a period of survival, but as the dawn of true recovery.