The Governor of Borno, Professor Umara Babagana Zulum, has called on Commissioners of Information from APC-governed states and stakeholders, both from the public and private sectors, to deepen collaboration with the Borno government to ensure credibility, transparency and timely communication in their lines of duty.
Governor Zulum made the call while declaring open the Progressive Governors Forum Quarterly Strategy Meeting with the Commissioners in Maiduguri, Borno State, Northeast Nigeria.
Zulum, who was represented by his deputy, Usman Umaru-Kadafur, explained that the success of long-term plans hinges on the alignment of programmes, predictable funding, steadfast technical support, and a shared, unyielding commitment to ensuring that no community is left behind.
“As Commissioners of Information, you are the vital architects of public narrative and guardians of a scarred societal trust. Your strategic communication shapes understanding, catalyses citizens’ participation, mobilises resources, and counters the corrosive tide of misinformation. In this arena, credibility is your most valuable currency. I therefore urge you to utilise this session for the common playbook, one dedicated to transparent, timely, and responsible communication that unequivocally advances the course of governance and development across our great states,” Zulum said.
He stressed that the assembly presents a timely opportunity to reflect upon and to affirm collective endorsement of the Borno State 25-Year Development Plan and 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiative.
He highlights the various achievements of the state government in the areas of roads, bridges, healthcare, education and human capital development, among others.
“This farsighted blueprint charts a sustainable pathway toward lasting security, inclusive growth, and enduring prosperity. It is a comprehensive vision for a resilient Gorno, founded upon strategic pillars. The consolidation of security and stability, the development of our human capital through quality education and healthcare, economic diversification anchored in agriculture, small and medium enterprises, and a value-chain development alongside robust infrastructural renewal, digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and accountability governance. This plan looks beyond immediate recovery, aspiring instead for a generational transformation that strengthens institutions. It empowers our citizens and creates an abundance of opportunity,” he said
For his part, the Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar, said the people of Gorno have embraced progressive political platforms, and the current administration has continued along this trend.
“Borno State’s commitment to the progressive agenda is evident in its innovative government models, people-oriented policies, and investment in key sectors of our economy. I am proud to report that despite the challenges posed by over a decade of insurgency and the recent flood disaster of 2024, Gorno State is resilient and making progress,” he said
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Also speaking, the Director General of PGF, Folorunso Aluko, called on all the information managers to tell the Nigerian story with truth and amplify the people’s voice with empathy to light the path of progress for every citizen.
“Governance is a relay, not a race; each of us holds a baton in the long journey of nation-building. As we celebrate here in Maiduguri, let us reaffirm our shared resolve to align state action with federal vision, to speak with one voice, to act with integrity, and to serve with renewed hope. We shall continue to build a Nigeria that works for all, strong, united, and full of hope,” he noted.
The Commissioner of Information maintained that, with togetherness, a strong Nigeria that works for all shall be built.