By: Abdullahi Inuwa
In the heart of Borno’s modern story stands one name that refuses to fade into memory—Babagana Umara Zulum. Not just as a leader, but as a symbol of resilience, courage, and a rare kind of governance that turned despair into determination. Today, as political tides begin to shift toward 2027, a powerful message is echoing across the state: remembering Zulum is no longer enough—Borno must trust him.
There was a time not too long ago when Borno’s identity was overshadowed by crisis. Communities were torn apart, livelihoods destroyed, and hope seemed like a distant dream. It was in that moment of uncertainty that Zulum stepped forward—not with empty promises, but with action. He walked the dusty roads of displaced communities, stood with grieving families, and made bold decisions where others hesitated.
His leadership was not defined by comfort, but by courage.
Zulum did not govern from a distance. He governed from the frontlines—physically present in volatile areas, personally overseeing projects, and relentlessly pushing for the return of stability. Schools reopened. Roads were reconstructed. Healthcare facilities came back to life. But beyond the visible structures, something deeper was restored: belief.
Belief that Borno could rise again.
What Zulum built was never just about infrastructure. It was about rebuilding a people’s confidence in themselves and in governance. Every classroom rebuilt meant a child’s future reclaimed. Every resettled community represented dignity restored. Every policy driven by urgency reflected a leader who understood the weight of his responsibility.
That legacy is now at a crossroads.
As 2027 approaches, political calculations, ambitions, and alignments are beginning to take shape. But amid the noise, one truth remains clear—Borno cannot afford to gamble with the progress it has fought so hard to achieve. The stakes are too high. The sacrifices too deep. The journey too important.
This is why many voices across the state are calling for something simple yet profound: trust Zulum.
Trust his judgment.
Trust the same instincts that guided him through the most difficult periods in Borno’s history. Trust the vision that transformed broken systems into functioning institutions. Trust the courage that refused to bow to fear when leadership demanded boldness.
Leadership succession is always a defining moment for any state. It is a test not just of political strength, but of wisdom and foresight. Who carries the mantle forward matters. How that decision is made matters even more.
For Borno, this decision cannot be left to chance or clouded by unnecessary interference.
Zulum understands the terrain—politically, socially, and economically. He knows the fragile balance that must be maintained. He knows the kind of leadership required to sustain the gains already made while pushing the state toward greater stability and development.
Allowing him to guide the process of choosing the next leader is not about politics—it is about continuity.
Continuity of vision.
Continuity of purpose.
Continuity of progress.
The danger of disrupting this trajectory cannot be ignored. History has shown that when transitions are mishandled, even the strongest foundations can weaken. For Borno, such a risk would be costly—not just in terms of development, but in the trust of the people.
And trust, once broken, is not easily rebuilt.
This is why the call is growing louder: let Zulum lead this process without pressure. Let him exercise the same clarity and independence that defined his tenure. Shield the process from distractions that do not serve the collective interest of the state.
Because what is at stake is bigger than politics.
It is about preserving hope.
It is about protecting a legacy that was earned through sacrifice and determination.
It is about ensuring that the story of Borno continues to be one of resilience, not regression.
Zulum’s journey has never been about personal gain. It has been about service—visible, measurable, and impactful. That is why his voice matters now more than ever. That is why his guidance is not just relevant, but necessary.
As the state stands on the threshold of another chapter, the message is clear and urgent: do not abandon what works. Do not disrupt what has been carefully built. Do not ignore the wisdom of proven leadership.
Remember Zulum, yes—but more importantly, trust him.
Trust him to protect what he has built.
Trust him to safeguard the future.
Trust him to ensure that the hope he restored is not lost again.
Because in the end, Borno’s greatest achievement under Zulum was not just recovery—it was the rekindling of belief that tomorrow can be better than today.
And that belief must never be broken.
Abdullahi Inuwa Social Commentator ainuwa303@gmail.com
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