Borno at a Crossroads: Governor Zulum’s Burden and the Urgent Need for Collective Responsibility
By Dr. Zanna Hassan Boguma FCIPDM FWIP
(Zanna Boguma of Borno)
Special Adviser to His Excellency on Culture and Regional Integration
As the security situation in Borno State deteriorates once again, with renewed attacks in rural and border communities, the spotlight inevitably returns to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum — a man whose leadership has been tested, yet remains unshaken.
From resettling internally displaced persons to rebuilding schools and clinics in war-torn areas, Governor Zulum has never hesitated to place himself on the frontlines. His commitment to the people of Borno is unquestionable, but his burden is becoming increasingly solitary. No matter how determined a leader may be, no government can succeed in isolation.
A Governor Standing Alone
Since assuming office, Governor Zulum has governed not from a distance but side by side with his people — assessing damages, encouraging local troops, and initiating critical infrastructure projects in high-risk areas. His boldness and humility have won admiration both locally and internationally.
But it is becoming alarmingly clear that he is being left to carry a burden too heavy for one man. In this period of renewed insurgency, many of those who rose to prominence under his leadership have gone conspicuously silent or inactive.
The Missing Patriots
With the notable exceptions of Senator Ali Ndume, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, Senator M. T. Monguno, and occasionally Reps members like Hon. Ahmed Satomi and Ho. Jaha, Hon. Zainab (Gimba), most members of the National Assembly from Borno have failed to rise to the challenge. These are elected representatives whose voices should echo the pain and urgency of the people in the corridors of national power, yet too many have chosen to remain absent.
This silence and passivity are not just disappointing, they are dangerous. Borno’s recovery, safety, and long-term development depend on unified leadership, not a lone ranger approach.
The Need for a Stakeholders Consultative Meeting
At this critical juncture, it is imperative that His Excellency Governor Zulum convenes a broad-based stakeholders consultative meeting. This forum should include traditional rulers, religious leaders, elder statesmen, security professionals, youth representatives, women leaders, and other critical voices from within and outside the state.
No visionary leader governs alone. Great leadership thrives on wise counsel, diverse perspectives, and collective decision-making. Such a consultative platform will help build consensus, generate grassroots support for security efforts, and inspire collective ownership of Borno’s future.
Commissioners and Appointees Must Step Up
It is equally important that commissioners and political appointees understand that leadership is more than holding office, it is about being present, being proactive, and being patriotic. They must step out of Maiduguri and into the towns and villages they represent. They must support community-led security efforts, drive public sensitization campaigns, and reinforce the governor’s efforts wherever possible.
Citizens Cannot Be Bystanders
Every citizen of Borno, whether living in Gwoza, Monguno, Chibok, or Maiduguri must understand the gravity of the moment. Community intelligence, vigilance, inter-communal cooperation, and resilience are all essential parts of defeating terrorism. The time for complacency is long gone. Everyone must play a part.
Conclusion: A Call for Unity and Responsibility
Governor Zulum has done more than his fair share. His tireless effort to restore dignity, peace, and development to Borno is on record. But if we are to overcome this latest wave of insecurity, the time has come for all stakeholders — from elected officials to community elders, to rise above personal comfort and political silence.
Let this be a turning point. Let Borno come together not just in words, but in action.
Dr. Zanna Hassan Boguma FCIPDM FWIP, the Zanna Boguma of Borno is a public affairs analyst and commentator on Northern Nigerian security, governance and Political issues.
