Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has been honored with the award of Best Humanitarian Governor 2025, as the world marks World Humanitarian Day.
The award was presented at an event organised by NETCODE, with the United Nations and other humanitarian partners in attendance.
Governor Zulum was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijani, who received the award on his behalf and delivered the Governor’s message of appreciation.
In his remarks, the Governor thanked NETCODE and the UN for their solidarity, while paying tribute to the sacrifices of humanitarian workers, security agencies, and the thousands of innocent citizens who lost their lives to insurgency in Borno state.
“There is a thin line between security, humanitarian needs, and development. Whatever progress Borno State has achieved is because of the resilience of our people, the sacrifices of humanitarian workers, our military, the Civilian JTF, hunters, vigilantes, and, most importantly, the victims of insurgency.”
The Governor also commiserated with victims of insurgency and expressed gratitude to philanthropists, international partners, and organisations that have supported Borno financially, materially, morally, and spiritually over the years.
Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to moving beyond emergency responses into long-term recovery and development.
His government has rolled out a 25-year Development Plan and a 10-year Strategic Plan, designed to rebuild lives and secure the future of the state.
The UN, NGOs, CSOs, and other partners were commended for their significant contributions in shaping these plans.
With half of the 10-year strategic framework already in progress, the government says it remains confident that the objectives will lay a solid foundation for peace and socio-economic transformation.
The Governor also recalled the visit of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to Borno, where he personally witnessed the progress credited to Governor Zulum’s humanitarian and development initiatives.
As Borno joins the world in marking World Humanitarian Day 2025, the state government pledged to sustain partnerships and remain focused on delivering hope, security, and development to its people.
Hauwa Abu