BY: ABDULKADIR M LAWAN, APRIL 29, 2026/ 10:59PM
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has explained why he anointed his commissioner for works, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, as his preferred successor for the 2027 governorship race.
The governor presented Gubio with the All Progressives Congress, APC, Expression of Interest and Nomination forms in Abuja, formally naming him as his choice for the party’s gubernatorial ticket.
In a statement Wednesday by his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, Gov. Zulum said the decision was aimed at sustaining the momentum Borno State has experienced under his administration.
'I know how I came in as the commissioner of RRR, and how the office shaped to set a governance standard that changed the lives of our citizenry.
'Engr Gubio has been defined by similar discipline, courage, and an uncommon commitment to public service,' he said.
The statement noted that Gubio 'demonstrated exceptional capacity in overseeing critical infrastructure, particularly in housing development across metropolitan and rural communities, which has significantly contributed to improving living conditions in the state.'
Beyond infrastructure, Iliya highlighted Gubio’s record as Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement, where he led efforts to restore essential services in insurgency-affected areas.
'He is widely recognized for driving reconstruction efforts in conflict-affected communities such as Bama, Konduga, Damasak, and Mafa Local Government Areas, ensuring the restoration of schools, healthcare facilities, and other critical infrastructure,' the statement read.
According to the governor’s aide, these efforts align closely with Gov. Zulum’s broader vision of recovery, stability, and sustainable development.
'His dedication to rebuilding lives and communities, coupled with his proven administrative competence, underscores the confidence reposed in him to consolidate the gains already achieved and advance the development agenda of Borno State,' Iliya said.
He added that the anointment 'reflects a strategic decision anchored on continuity, experience, and a commitment to ensuring that the state remains on the path of peace, resilience, and transformational governance.'