Zulum Calls for Peaceful Campaigns as Borno Marks 66th Independence Anniversary
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has extended his greetings to the people of Borno and to Nigerians nationwide as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
In a message to mark the occasion, the Governor honoured Nigeria's founding fathers and the leaders who sacrificed for the nation's unity, growth and development across more than six decades marked by difficulties.
"As we celebrate 66 years of nationhood, we honour our founding fathers and all the leaders who gave their lives for the unity, growth and development of Nigeria, despite the trials our country has endured," Zulum stated.
He appealed to citizens to guard the peace that Borno has struggled to restore, and to ensure that political activities remain free of bitterness as the campaign period approaches.
The Governor restated his dedication to strengthening peace, safeguarding the rights of residents, building a solid foundation for future generations, and guaranteeing that internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees return to their communities safely, willingly and with dignity.
"About two million of our people have returned to their communities, and we are working to resettle more. We must not allow a few unpatriotic people to derail this hard-earned peace."
Zulum said his administration has committed substantial resources to restoring security, developing human capital, upgrading infrastructure, supporting agriculture, resettling displaced persons and rebuilding communities. Over the past seven years, he noted, more than 1,500 clusters of projects have been executed across the state's 27 local government areas.
According to the Governor, these projects have enhanced lives and livelihoods while reinforcing security, stability and resettlement. He attributed the improved security situation to the combined efforts of security personnel, volunteers, and traditional, community and religious leaders, and most importantly to the resilience of Borno's people.
"The improved security we enjoy today is the result of the collective efforts of our gallant security personnel, volunteers, traditional, community and religious leaders and, above all, the resilient people of Borno," he added.
Zulum stated that approximately two million people have so far returned to their communities, with further efforts under way to resettle more IDPs. He also revealed that over 30,000 homes, schools, clinics and other public facilities destroyed during the insurgency have been reconstructed.
On education, the Governor said the number of functional secondary schools rose from 34 in 2019 to 129 in 2026. Enrolment has climbed to 1.8 million children, the teaching workforce has expanded, and the government is giving priority to digital and vocational education.
Zulum also highlighted significant investments in agriculture to enable year-round farming, a strengthened health system, and wider healthcare access for vulnerable residents through the state contributory health scheme.
He said his administration is creating business and economic opportunities to drive post-conflict recovery in sectors where Borno holds a comparative advantage. He described the state as an emerging investment destination, citing its strategic location, human capital and natural resources.
"Borno is now an investment destination because of its strategic location and its human capital and natural resources. We are unlocking opportunities that will drive our post-conflict recovery."
The Governor called on citizens to uphold unity and peaceful coexistence, shun violence, and respect the rule of law for sustainable development in the state and the country. "As the political season sets in, let us conduct our campaigns without rancour, so we do not undermine the relative peace and stability our state now enjoys."
Zulum expressed gratitude to the people of Borno for their continued support and pledged to maintain his administration's momentum until his final day in office.
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