By: Dr. James Bwala
Leadership is not measured only by political titles, campaign promises, or public appearances. True leadership is revealed by a person’s character, memories, values, and commitment to the welfare of the people. In Borno State, where citizens have endured insecurity, displacement, economic hardship, and social uncertainty, the need for a leader who understands the value of peace and humility has never been greater. Engr. Mustapha Gubio, the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate, has demonstrated qualities that make him a credible choice for the people of Borno: faith, gratitude, respect for communities, and a clear commitment to peaceful living.
During a solidarity visit by Biu elders forum residents in Maiduguri, Engr. Gubio recalled the warmth and importance of Biu he holds in his personal history. He explained that, during his postgraduate studies in Yola, Biu served as a stopover point where he regularly paused to offer prayers. This recollection was not merely a casual reference to the past. It revealed the depth of his connection with the people and land of Biu, as well as his belief that prayer, perseverance, and divine guidance have played significant roles in his life and the connection he had with Biu and its people.
Engr. Gubio’s experience is particularly meaningful because it reflects the journey of a man who has not forgotten the places and values that shaped him. Many public figures become distant from ordinary people after attaining positions of influence. They may forget the communities where they found encouragement, comfort, or inspiration. Engr. Gubio, however, has continued to remember Biu as a place of spiritual refuge. His words showed that he does not regard Biu merely as a political constituency but as a community connected to his personal story and aspirations.
The importance of this memory should not be underestimated. A leader who appreciates the role of prayer and gratitude is more likely to understand that public office is a trust rather than a personal possession. Engr. Gubio stated that the positions he and his deputy have attained are by Allah’s will. This expression of humility is significant in a political environment where some individuals treat power as a reward for personal ambition or entitlement. By acknowledging divine will, he recognizes that leadership comes with responsibility, accountability, and an obligation to serve the people.
Such humility is essential for effective governance. A leader who understands that authority is temporary is more likely to listen to citizens, respect institutions, and make decisions in the public interest. Engr. Gubio’s view suggests that he sees political office not as an opportunity for self-enrichment or personal dominance but as a platform to serve Borno State. This perspective should appeal to citizens who desire a government that is accessible, responsible, and guided by moral principles.
Peace remains one of the most urgent needs of Borno State. For more than a decade, insecurity has affected communities across the state. Families have been separated, businesses disrupted, schools damaged, and countless citizens forced to live with fear and uncertainty. Although significant efforts have been made to restore stability, the consequences of insecurity remain visible in many communities. The people of Borno therefore need leaders who place peace at the center of governance.
Engr. Gubio has consistently presented peace and prayer as central elements of his life and public outlook. His personal connection with Biu, where he stopped to pray during his postgraduate days, reinforces this identity. More importantly, he has promised that, if elected, he and his deputy will work to ensure that every citizen of Borno is given the right to peaceful living. This is a powerful commitment because peace is not a privilege reserved for certain communities or groups. It is a fundamental right that must be protected for everyone, regardless of ethnicity, religion, location, or political affiliation.
The promise of peaceful living must be translated into practical governance. It should involve strengthening security institutions, supporting community-based conflict resolution, protecting farmers and traders, rebuilding schools and health facilities, and creating opportunities for young people. It should also include dialogue with traditional rulers, religious leaders, women’s groups, youth organizations, and communities affected by conflict. Engr. Gubio’s emphasis on peace provides a strong foundation for such an inclusive approach.
Biu Local Government Area has a special role in the political, cultural, and economic life of Borno State. Its elders have consistently contributed to the stability and development of the state. Their solidarity visit to Engr. Gubio was therefore more than a formal political engagement. It was an expression of respect, goodwill, and confidence. The visit also demonstrated the importance of collaboration between political leaders and traditional or community authorities.
The presence of Biu elders at the Government House offered an opportunity for dialogue and mutual understanding. Engr. Gubio’s response showed appreciation for the visit and acknowledged the emotional importance of Biu in his life. He thanked the elders and expressed hope that a larger occasion would provide an opportunity for greater exchange, discussion, and pleasantries. This response reflects a leader who values relationships and understands that governance cannot be built through speeches alone. It requires continuous engagement with the people.
A successful governor must be willing to listen. Communities possess knowledge about their own challenges, and elders often have a deep understanding of local history, social relations, and traditional methods of resolving disputes. By welcoming the Biu elders and expressing his desire for further engagement, Engr. Gubio demonstrated an appreciation for this important source of wisdom. His approach suggests that his administration would be open to consultation rather than relying solely on decisions made behind closed doors.
The bond between Engr. Gubio and Biu is also a reminder that political leadership should rise above narrow interests. Borno State is home to diverse communities with different traditions, histories, and needs. A governor must be able to unite these communities and promote a sense of common purpose. Engr. Gubio’s message that every Borno citizen deserves peaceful living reflects an inclusive vision. It shows that he does not intend to govern for one area, one group, or one political faction.
In a democratic society, citizens should evaluate candidates based on their character, competence, vision, and capacity to unite the people. Engr. Gubio’s professional background as an engineer provides him with a practical and analytical orientation. Engineering requires planning, precision, problem-solving, and the ability to manage complex projects. These qualities are relevant to the governance of a state that requires infrastructure development, economic revitalization, improved public services, and institutional reform.
However, technical competence alone is not sufficient for political leadership. A leader must also possess empathy, integrity, and a genuine connection with the people. Engr. Gubio’s recollection of Biu and his acknowledgment of prayer reveal a personal dimension that complements his professional experience. His story presents him as someone who has faced challenges, pursued education, remained connected to his faith, and continued to appreciate the communities that influenced his journey.
His statement that prayers offered in Biu have received answers is also a message of hope. Borno citizens have experienced difficult times, and many people continue to carry the burden of loss and uncertainty. Hope is therefore essential. It encourages communities to believe that recovery is possible and that the future can be better than the past. A leader who inspires hope without ignoring reality can help citizens rebuild their confidence and participate actively in the development of the state.
Nevertheless, hope must be joined with action. The people of Borno will expect any incoming administration to address unemployment, poverty, education, healthcare, agricultural development, infrastructure, and security. Engr. Gubio’s promise of peaceful living should therefore be accompanied by concrete programs and measurable policies. Peace is strengthened when young people have access to employment, when children can attend school safely, when displaced families can return home with dignity, and when citizens can conduct their businesses without fear.
The support of Biu elders is significant because traditional and community leaders often influence public opinion and social cohesion. Their solidarity can help promote peaceful political participation and encourage citizens to engage in elections responsibly. At the same time, their support should be understood as a call for accountability. A candidate who receives the trust of the people must remain answerable to them after the election. Solidarity should lead to a partnership in which leaders and citizens work together for the common good.
Engr. Gubio’s interaction with the Biu elders has created an opportunity to strengthen this partnership. His gratitude and willingness to maintain contact can serve as the foundation for a broader consultation process. Such engagement should continue throughout the campaign and, if elected, throughout his tenure. Communities should not be remembered only during elections. They must be included in policy discussions, development planning, and the evaluation of government performance.
Ultimately, the choice before the people of Borno is a choice about the kind of leadership they want. Do they want leadership defined by division, arrogance, and empty promises, or do they want leadership rooted in humility, peace, consultation, and service? Engr. Mustapha Gubio has presented himself as a candidate who understands the responsibilities of office and recognizes that authority comes by Allah’s will. His connection with Biu, his respect for the elders, and his commitment to peaceful living provide reasons for citizens to consider supporting his candidacy.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Maiduguri.
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