Independence Day: Zulum urges Borno residents to protect ‘hard-earned’ peace

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara, has urged residents to safeguard the hard-fought peace in the state as political campaigns commence. Speaking on Thursday during a message commemorating Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, Zulum paid tribute to the nation’s founding fathers and the leaders who made sacrifices for unity, growth, and development over the past six decades.

He emphasized the need to protect citizens' rights and ensure the safe resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees. Since the insurgency ended, nearly two million people have returned to their communities, and more resettlement efforts are underway. Zulum highlighted the administration's investments in security, human capital, infrastructure, agriculture, and resettlement projects across the 27 local government areas.

He credited the improved security to the combined efforts of security personnel, volunteers, traditional and religious leaders, and the resilience of the Borno people. The governor also noted the rebuilding of over 30,000 homes, schools, clinics, and public facilities destroyed during the insurgency. In education, the number of functional secondary schools increased from 34 in 2019 to 129 in 2026, with enrolment reaching 1.8 million children and more teachers being hired.

Zulum pointed to investments in agriculture, healthcare, and business opportunities to support post-conflict recovery. He urged Borno residents to maintain unity, reject violence, and respect the rule of law to ensure sustainable development for the state and the country during the political season.