By Abdullahi Inuwa
In a region once gripped by the relentless scourge of insurgency, one man has emerged as a symbol of hope, resilience, and transformative leadership — Professor Babagana Umara Zulum. As the Governor of Borno State, he has become more than just a leader for his people; he has become a national hero, a statesman whose impact transcends borders and whose story resonates across Nigeria and beyond. Zulum’s bravery, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people have earned him a place among the most respected leaders of contemporary Nigeria — a hero not just of Borno, but of the nation.
Born in 1969 in Mafa Local Government Area of Borno State, Babagana Zulum experienced firsthand the challenges of growing up in a region plagued by poverty and underdevelopment. A brilliant academic, he rose through the ranks to become a professor of Soil and Water Engineering at the University of Maiduguri. But it was not the safety of the classroom or the comfort of academic accolades that defined him — it was his decision to take his knowledge and courage to the frontline of public service at a time when most would have fled.
Zulum became the Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement under the administration of former Governor Kashim Shettima. There, he spearheaded efforts to rebuild communities devastated by Boko Haram. His fearless visits to volatile towns and IDP camps became the stuff of legend — and the foundation of the people’s trust.
When Zulum assumed office as Governor of Borno State in 2019, he inherited a land scarred by conflict, with millions displaced, hundreds of communities destroyed, and development at a standstill. But instead of giving excuses, Zulum rolled up his sleeves. He began traversing the length and breadth of the state, including some of the most dangerous terrain, to meet his people where they were and to deliver support, security, and solutions.
On several occasions, his convoy was attacked by insurgents — in Baga, Kukawa, and Gajiram — but this did not deter him. Unlike many Nigerian politicians who govern from behind thick walls, Zulum is known for showing up unannounced at hospitals, schools, and IDP camps, often at odd hours, to assess the quality of services being delivered.
These surprise visits not only kept officials on their toes but also established his reputation as a no-nonsense leader committed to transparency and accountability. In one famous incident, Zulum shut down an IDP camp after discovering that food meant for displaced people was being diverted by officials.
Zulum’s heroism is not just in braving bullets — it’s in rebuilding lives. Under his leadership, Borno State has seen the reconstruction of thousands of homes, schools, hospitals, and places of worship. His administration has successfully resettled tens of thousands of displaced families back to their ancestral homes with dignity and support.
Beyond physical infrastructure, Zulum has prioritized human development. He increased teacher recruitment, improved welfare packages, and provided educational scholarships for orphans and vulnerable children. Just recently, he approved the payment of over ₦529 million in WAEC fees for over 26,000 final-year students — a move hailed nationwide as a powerful commitment to equal educational opportunity.
Zulum’s lifestyle is as modest as it is inspirational. He is known to reject frivolous spending, reduce the cost of governance, and demand accountability from public servants. His austere lifestyle stands in contrast to the flamboyance often associated with Nigerian politicians.
While corruption remains a major challenge in Nigeria’s governance landscape, Zulum has positioned himself as an incorruptible force — sacking underperforming commissioners and permanently blacklisting officials caught in acts of misappropriation or negligence.
His leadership style has drawn praise from civil society organizations, international development partners, and even political opponents. He has become a beacon of what responsible governance should look like.
Zulum’s impact is not confined to the boundaries of Borno State. He has become a national figure — a shining example of what visionary leadership can achieve even in the face of adversity. His interventions in IDP welfare, education, healthcare, and rural development are often cited as models for other state governments.
Internationally, development organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), World Bank, and various NGOs have described Zulum’s efforts as “exemplary” and worthy of emulation across post-conflict zones in Africa.
When Northern Nigeria grapples with insecurity, poor infrastructure, and youth restiveness, many point to Zulum as a solution-oriented leader who doesn’t just talk — he acts.
Despite the overwhelming challenges, Zulum has never lost touch with his people. His town hall meetings, often held in the local Kanuri and Hausa languages, give ordinary citizens a direct line to express their concerns and offer suggestions. He is known to take notes personally and follow up on issues raised, earning him the title “Mai Kula da Talakawa” — “The One Who Cares for the Poor.”
He has also been a strong advocate for national unity, calling for peace, justice, and an end to the marginalization of any group. He has consistently urged security agencies to improve coordination while advocating for the resettlement of displaced persons with dignity and security guarantees.
While he still serves as Governor, many Nigerians are already discussing Zulum’s potential for higher national responsibilities. In an era when public trust in leadership is eroding, Zulum’s authenticity stands tall. He embodies the qualities that Nigeria so desperately needs: humility, vision, resilience, discipline, and courage.
For the people of Borno, he is a redeemer of lost hope. For Nigerians across the nation, he is a symbol of what leadership should be. His story is one of defiance in the face of terror, reconstruction in the midst of ruin, and compassion in the corridors of power.
Conclusion
In a nation with no shortage of challenges, heroes are those who rise above fear and convenience to serve the people with honesty and courage. Professor Babagana Umara Zulum is one such hero — one whose legacy is already being written in the grateful hearts of thousands and the hopeful gaze of a nation yearning for change.
Zulum may have been born in Borno, but his heroism belongs to all of Nigeria — a beacon in the darkness, a builder of hope, and a hero beyond borders.
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