By: Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has welcomed the Minister of Regional Development, Hon. Uba Mai Gari Ahmadu, during the Minister’s official visit to the state. The meeting, held at the Council Chamber of the Deputy Governor’s Office, Government House, Maiduguri, was presided over by Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur, who represented Governor Zulum.
Welcoming the Minister, Kadafur praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership in establishing the Ministry of Regional Development, describing it as a crucial step toward addressing Nigeria’s regional development challenges.
“We commend the President for creating this ministry, which underscores his commitment to sustainable growth across the country. Nigeria faces numerous developmental challenges, and this initiative reflects the administration’s determination to tackle them head-on,” Kadafur stated.
He also highlighted the pivotal role of the Northeast Development Commission (NEDC) in Borno’s recovery efforts, particularly in rebuilding infrastructure damaged during the insurgency.
“Borno State has been at the forefront of the fight against insurgency, suffering significant infrastructural losses. However, the NEDC has played a crucial role in our recovery, executing key interventions that have restored livelihoods and rebuilt essential facilities,” he noted.
Kadafur reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to working with the Federal Government and the NEDC to accelerate development and ensure the full restoration of conflict-affected communities.
“We have made substantial progress in our recovery efforts, and we appreciate the continued support of the NEDC. Borno remains committed to collaborating with your ministry and the commission to further advance our development agenda,” he added.
The meeting underscored the strong partnership between Borno State and the Federal Government in fostering stability, economic empowerment, and infrastructure development across the region.
Minister Pledges Stronger Federal Support for Borno’s Development
In his remarks, Minister Uba Mai Gari Ahmadu expressed deep sympathy for the challenges faced by Borno State, particularly the security threats posed by insurgency and the recent flooding caused by the collapse of the Al-Awda Dam.
“Your Excellency, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the people of Borno over these adversities. However, it is commendable that under your leadership, the state continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and progress,” he said.
The Minister emphasized that his visit reflected President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to partnering with state governments to drive sustainable development, restore livelihoods, and strengthen peace-building efforts.
“Through the Northeast Development Commission, we are implementing critical interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. These efforts go beyond immediate relief—they are strategic investments in Borno’s long-term prosperity,” he stated.
Hon. Ahmadu commended Borno State’s collaboration with the NEDC, noting that the state plays a vital role in regional stability. He assured that federal interventions would align with the state’s development priorities and the aspirations of its people.
“Moving forward, we will intensify collaboration with the NEDC, fast-track ongoing projects, and initiate new interventions where needed. Our goal is to ensure that all development efforts are inclusive and impactful,” he added.
He also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to positioning Borno as a model for post-insurgency recovery, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
Concluding his remarks, Hon. Ahmadu expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation, pledging continued engagement to deepen federal-state cooperation for the benefit of the people.
“Once again, I thank Your Excellency and the people of Borno for the warm reception. I look forward to future collaborations that will transform lives and uplift communities across the state. May God bless Borno and the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he concluded.
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