Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has pledged to hand over a more secure, stable and economically prosperous state at the end of his tenure, expressing confidence that the achievements of his administration would be sustained by the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Engr. Mustapha Gubio.
The governor made the pledge at the Government House in Maiduguri while receiving a high-powered delegation of prominent sons and daughters of Gubio Local Government Area, led by elder statesman Alhaji Gambo Gubio. The delegation visited alongside the APC governorship candidate to express appreciation following his emergence as the party’s flag bearer for the 2027 governorship election.
Zulum said his administration remains committed to addressing the state’s security challenges and consolidating development gains before the transition of power in 2027.
While acknowledging that insecurity remains Borno’s most pressing challenge, the governor expressed optimism that the situation would improve considerably before he leaves office.
“Security is the most difficult issue. Insha Allah, before I leave office, the situation will be better than it is today. I will hand over a more stable, more prosperous and more secure government to Engr. Mustapha Gubio,” he stated.
The governor noted that the true test of leadership lies not only in achieving success but also in preserving and expanding on those achievements.
“What matters is not only achieving success but sustaining it. Managing success is often more difficult than attaining it. Governing Borno State is not an easy task, but with collective support, prayers and guidance, God will grant him the wisdom and strength to succeed,” he said.
Zulum also publicly endorsed the APC candidate, describing him as a leader of proven integrity, humility and dedication.
According to the governor, he has known Gubio for more than two decades, dating back to their days at the University of Maiduguri.
“His integrity is unquestionable. He is humane, humble, composed and dedicated. By the grace of God, he possesses the qualities needed to provide leadership for Borno State,” Zulum added.
Reflecting on his assumption of office in 2019, the governor recalled inheriting a state burdened by insurgency, humanitarian crises and widespread displacement. He described the early years of his administration as particularly demanding, requiring significant personal sacrifices.
“When I assumed office, the challenges were overwhelming. Within the first 55 days of my administration, I saw my children only three times. The first four years were extremely difficult, but with the help of Almighty Allah, we have begun to see light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
He stressed that although considerable progress had been made in rebuilding communities, restoring livelihoods and improving infrastructure, continued efforts would be necessary to secure lasting peace and sustainable development across the state.
The governor thanked the delegation for its visit and urged citizens to continue praying for the peace, unity and progress of Borno State.
“As Muslims, when we seek Allah’s guidance and pray for what is best, we must accept His decision wholeheartedly, knowing that whatever He chooses is ultimately best for us,” he said.
Earlier, Alhaji Gambo Gubio commended Governor Zulum for what he described as his pivotal role in the emergence of Engr. Mustapha Gubio as the APC candidate for the 2027 governorship election.
He said the people of Gubio Local Government Area were deeply appreciative of the confidence reposed in their son and pledged unwavering support for both the party and its candidate.
“We are here to express our profound appreciation. Words alone cannot adequately convey our gratitude. We remain sincerely thankful for this historic opportunity,” Gambo said.
The elder statesman described the APC flag bearer as a worthy ambassador of Gubio, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the state effectively.
He also praised Governor Zulum’s administration for its achievements in security, infrastructure development, humanitarian interventions and governance reforms.
“Governor Zulum is succeeding. His achievements are visible across the state, and the people appreciate the sacrifices he has made in difficult circumstances,” he said.
The meeting was attended by several senior government officials and political leaders, including Chairman of the Borno State Civil Service Commission, Dr. Bulama Mali Gubio; former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Fanta Baba Shehu; Executive Chairman of Gubio Local Government Area, Hon. Mali Bulama Mali; APC State Chairman, Hon. Bello Ayuba; Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Bukar Tijani; Acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mustapha Malumbe; commissioners, special advisers and other top government functionaries.
The governor’s remarks come as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to gather momentum, with growing attention on the future leadership and security outlook of Borno State and the wider North-East region.
