BY: MUSA IDRIS UMAR, JULY 09, 2026/ 08:47AM
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum used his visit to Southern Borno this week to roll out a series of political, economic, and social initiatives ahead of the 2026 wet farming season.
The trip combined agricultural support, youth employment, and political consultations, with announcements that could shape both the state's economy and preparations for the 2027 elections.
The governor began the visit in Kwaya Kusar, where he launched the 2026 wet farming season and unveiled a package of support for farmers across the state.
The package includes 200 truckloads of NPK fertilizer to be sold at a 50 percent subsidy and free farm inputs for more than 120,000 registered smallholder farmers.
The intervention also covers 40,000 liters of agrochemicals, 5,000 water pumps, 5,000 knapsack sprayers, certified seeds, 10,000 bicycles for rural farmers, and post-harvest storage facilities.
Zulum said the program is intended to strengthen the entire agricultural value chain, from production and mechanization to storage, market access, and financing for women and young people.
He also announced a ₦500 million cash support package for vulnerable residents, women, and youths in Biu, Hawul, Kwaya Kusar, Shani, and Bayo local government areas.
During a separate visit to the palace of the Emir of Biu, Alhaji Mustapha Umar Mustapha II, the governor turned to political and governance issues.
He disclosed that 27 aspirants have indicated interest in becoming the All Progressives Congress deputy governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 election.
Zulum said the party would unveil its running mate next week and urged residents to pray for the emergence of the most suitable candidate.
The governor also announced plans to employ 100 unemployed graduates from Biu Local Government Area as part of efforts to reduce youth unemployment and political thuggery.
He said each local government area in the state would recruit 50 graduates, while Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere, Bama, Askira/Uba, and Gwoza would each have 100 because of their larger populations.
According to him, priority will be given to graduates in health-related disciplines, English, Mathematics, and Physics.
Zulum said creating jobs for young people remains one of the most effective ways to reduce political violence and other social challenges.
He also urged traditional rulers and community leaders to support government efforts to tackle drug abuse, gangsterism, and the vandalism of public infrastructure.
The governor's visit underscored his administration's focus on linking agricultural development, job creation, and political stability as key priorities for Southern Borno.