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Category: Borno Update

  • Zulum to build staff quarters and revamp Borno school structures

    Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno State has outlined a multifaceted plan to rejuvenate the education sector, which includes building teachers’ quarters and renovating dilapidated schools.

    Zulum, rolled out the plan at a high-level meeting with key stakeholders in the education sector to review current challenges and outline fresh directives for improving learning outcomes, infrastructure, and coordination across the state.

     The governor emphasised the need for synergy among education agencies to ensure effective service delivery, noting that collaboration was key to addressing the sector’s challenges.

    Zulum ordered the establishment of additional High Islamic Colleges in selected local government areas.

    The colleges, he said, would integrate traditional Islamic studies with literacy, numeracy, modern sciences, and vocational training.

    According to him, the initiative is aimed at mainstreaming the non-formal education sector into the formal system, targeting Almajiri pupils and providing a second chance for out-of-school children who have exceeded the official enrolment age.

    The governor also directed the establishment of state libraries in Biu, southern Borno, and Monguno, in the northern part of the state, in addition to the upgraded Maiduguri library. 

    “Deliberately, I upgraded the Maiduguri library, with the aim of establishing another one in Biu and one in Monguno in order to promote reading culture, which is fast eroding.

    “ I want you to rejuvenate the reading culture by ensuring the library is effective. But most importantly, apart from the physical books, let’s put a mechanism for e-books in place,” Zulum said.

  • FG inaugurates fashion hub in Borno, targets 48,000 jobs

    FG inaugurates fashion hub in Borno, targets 48,000 jobs

    The Federal Government has launched a massive ultramodern fashion manufacturing hub in Maiduguri, which is expected to create over 48,000 jobs in Borno.

    Vice-President Kashim Shettima inaugurated the facility on Tuesday when he also reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering innovation, upskilling the workforce, and ensuring equitable wealth distribution across the nation.

    According to him, the strength of any nation lies not in its natural resources but in the hands of its skilled and enterprising citizens.

    Shettima also said, “You are the surest means of distributing wealth equitably across the land. You are the crucial link to securing a prosperous future.”

    He disclosed unconditional grants of N300,000 for outstanding Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at the event, as part of FG’s N75 billion support package for MSMEs.

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    He explained that “every business empowered is a step closer to eradicating poverty, and we do not take for granted the critical role you play as the buffer of our economy, particularly at the informal level.”

    Shettima also noted that the MSME Clinics provide a unique platform for business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and innovators.

    He said this would enable them to interact directly with regulatory agencies, financial institutions, and business support organisations.

    “It is an avenue to receive practical, on-the-spot solutions to the challenges you face in running your businesses,” he said.

    Media reports indicate that the fashion hub is among the largest ever established by the Federal Government.

    It is furnished with state-of-the-art equipment to support the fashion manufacturing cluster in Borno.

    Shettima said, “We anticipate that this facility will be managed by a competent private sector entity, with federal and state governments providing vigilant oversight.

    “Our vision is for this hub to become a reference point for excellence, enterprise, and training — not only for Borno but for the entire nation.”

    Borno governor, Babagana Zulum, expressed optimism that the launch of the MSME Clinic will revive business activities, provide employment opportunities, and sources of income for individuals in the state.

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    Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, stated that the launch of the MSME Clinic and the Fashion and Innovation Hub marks another milestone of success in President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    “Everything speaks to the 8-point agenda of Mr President,” the minister said.

    On his part, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Sen. John Eno, said the MSME Clinic was a transformational programme being led by the Vice-President.

    Eno said that the programme was responsible for unlocking a lot of economic opportunities, empowering small businesses and encouraging innovation.

    Also, Senior Special Assistant to the President on MSMEs and Job Creation, Mr. Tola Johnson, expressed appreciation for the commissioning of the Clinic in the state. 

  • 1,900 settlements, ICT Centre unveiled for survivors in Monguno

    1,900 settlements, ICT Centre unveiled for survivors in Monguno

    On Friday, Annet Günther, the German ambassador to Nigeria, opened 1,900 resettlement homes and an ICT (information and communications technology) center for the survivors in Borno’s Monguno Local Government Area.

    Reports indicate that the two projects were built by the  international partners in collaboration with the Borno and the German government.

    Speaking at the inauguration, Günther commended Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno  for the initiatives which she said would have great impact on communities affected by insurgency.

    “This housing project is a shining example of collaboration between the Borno State Government and international partners.

    “Funding for the housing units comes from both the state government and international donors,” the German ambassador said.

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     Also speaking, Elsie Attafuah, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Country Representative, said the projects align with UNDP’s regional stabilisation efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the Lake Chad region.

    Earlier, Zulum stated that the housing estate consists of 1,000 Two-Bedroom Low-cost houses and 900 Sese-Permanent Shelters.

    The governor said that the houses would be distributed to 1,874 households selected from 18 communities who had been living in IDP camps for years.

    Zulum said that the German government funded the construction of 500 permanent housing units in 2020 and added 900 semi-permanent shelters in 2023.

    Monguno LGA ICT Centre, Borno state

    According to him, the Borno government built another 500 houses and provided complementary amenities such as a health centre and solar-powered boreholes.

    “A Letter of Agreement (LOA) was signed in 2020 under the RS German Initiative to kick-start the construction of 500 houses.

    “In 2023, another LOA was signed under the RSF German reintegration funds, enabling the completion of the 500 housing units, 900 semi-permanent shelters, and the installation of 375 solar streetlights,” the governor said.

    He added that the efforts would support the voluntary decongestion and eventual closure of IDP camps in Monguno, enabling smoother reintegration of displaced families in their ancestral homes.

    Zulum expressed gratitude to the Governments of Germany, the UK, Sweden, the Netherlands, Egypt, and the European Union for their continued support, as well as to UNDP for its unwavering partnership in stabiliSing the region.

    Other dignitaries at the ceremony included the Egyptian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohammed Foud; Sen. Mohammed Monguno; the Deputy Humanitarian Coordinator, Esty Sotyoko; and Mathew Alao, head of the UNDP office in Maiduguri.

    Traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents of Monguno also attended the event

  • Muhammad Buhari Int’l Airport, Maiduguri, Commences Int’l Ops

    Muhammad Buhari Int’l Airport, Maiduguri, Commences Int’l Ops

    The General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Maiduguri, Borno State, has officially commenced full international operations as of January 1, 2025. 

    This significant development enhances connectivity for the North East Zone and positions Maiduguri as a pivotal hub for international air travel and cargo transportation. 

    In a collaborative effort to ensure the smooth operation of the newly upgraded airport, the Borno State Government has donated two state-of-the-art fire service trucks.

     This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to supporting the aviation sector and ensuring the safety and efficiency of airport operations.

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    The establishment of an international airport in Maiduguri is strategic, aiming to receive international flights from the Middle East and other regions. 

    The airport’s capacity, infrastructure, and strategic location are expected to bolster economic activities and regional development. 

    The Federal Government, in partnership with the Borno State Government, has undertaken significant upgrades to the airport’s facilities, including the construction of a world-class runway and the installation of state-of-the-art equipment. 

    These enhancements are designed to meet international standards and accommodate a variety of aircraft, thereby facilitating increased passenger and cargo traffic.

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    The commencement of international operations at the General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport marks a milestone in the region’s development, promising to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance the overall infrastructure of Borno State.

  • Buhari Visits Maiduguri Following Flood Disaster

    Buhari Visits Maiduguri Following Flood Disaster

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari visits Maiduguri to offer his support to the local government and residents affected by the severe flooding which swept through the Borno state capital in September. 

    This visit took place on Tuesday, shortly after the catastrophic events unfolded while he was away on vacation.

    Upon his arrival, Buhari was welcomed by notable figures, including Governor Babagana Zulum and Senator Ali Ndume, along with other government officials.

     His trip aims to show solidarity with the victims and to engage with local leadership as they assess the damage caused by the floods.

    The recent disaster has had a profound impact on the region, displacing approximately 414,000 people and resulting in the loss of at least 30 lives.

     Reports indicate that nearly one million individuals have been affected by the flooding, prompting a significant response from various sources, including over N17 billion in donations to support relief efforts from the Borno State government and federal authorities.

  • Tinubu announces disaster relief fund in Borno 

    Tinubu announces disaster relief fund in Borno 

    Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga has announced the creation of a Disaster Relief Fund by President Bola Tinubu.
    He said the president announced the creation of the fund at the palace of the Shehu of Borno yesterday during his visit to Maiduguri to sympathise with victims of the massive flood in the town following the heavy downpour that broke the Alau dam.
    During his visit, he announced the creation of a disaster relief fund to support Nigerians impacted by floods and other disasters.
    The statement reads: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced a disaster relief fund Monday in Maiduguri, Borno State, to assist Nigerian citizens impacted by floods and other disasters.
    “He said the relief fund is already expedient as the climate becomes more unpredictable and many places in the country are vulnerable to its vagaries.
    “President Tinubu announced this at the Borno Government House when he visited the state to sympathise with the government and people over the recent flooding from Alau Dam.

    Maiduguri under water

    “He urged the private sector to contribute to the fund.
    “Senate president Godswill Akpabio, who accompanied the President on the visit, said the National Assembly will collaborate with the executive to establish the Fund.
    “Tinubu visited the Shehu of Borno, an Internally Displaced Persons camp at the Government Secondary School in Maiduguri and had a drive-through of the areas affected by the disaster.
    “President Tinubu said: “After my visit to the Shehu of Borno and the IDP camp, I have been reflecting on how to tackle this kind of disaster and the effects of climate change.
    “There must be a disaster relief fund. I will invite the private sector to team up with us and help rebuild the affected areas.
    “If we take a small percentage from FAAC and put it as disaster relief fund, which will include all of you, we will be activating and strengthening our sense of belonging,” he said.
    “The President thanked Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, who is also Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, Bauchi State governor Bala Mohammed, Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu; and Kogi State governor Ahmed Usman Ododo; and other governors who look beyond party lines to bear the burdens of others.
    “He said that Nigeria’s diversity should spur prosperity.
    “The President extended his sympathy to the government, the people of Yobe State, and all the states affected by flooding and pledged his government’s continued support for victims of natural disasters.
    “For all the people of Yobe State, I sympathise with you. We will create an outstanding programme for Nigeria to recover from this calamity. We will build our nation together,” the President assured.
    “The President commended the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, for prompt intervention and the Theatre Command of the Nigerian military for the evacuation that saved many lives.
    “I am glad that Prof. Zulum has been a very active governor. Let me assure you that we will be with you, Borno State and share the burden.
    “This disaster was a natural one. It was not the making of anybody. We cannot pass the blame. We pray that the Almighty Allah will receive the souls of the departed and grant them eternal rest.
    “May God also overlook their shortcomings and misdeeds on earth,” he added.
    “President Tinubu commended all the ministries, agencies, and security outfits, particularly the military, involved in evacuation and relief and recognised the international organisations working in the state.
    “The Governor of Borno State thanked the President for the visit and commended the prompt intervention of Federal Government agencies, particularly NEMA and the military’s Theatre Command, in evacuating stranded victims.
    At the palace, the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garba El-Kanemi, thanked the President for the honour of visiting the state after the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima, had earlier represented him.
    The Shehu of Borno urged the President to investigate the cause of the Alua dam collapse and overflow into the town to prevent a recurrence.”