Babagana Zulum
- Name: Babagana Umara Zulum
- Birthdate: August 26, 1969
- Birthplace: Mafa LGA, Borno state
- Occupation: Politician, lecturer
Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum has been serving as the Executive Governor of Borno State since May 29, 2019. A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), he was elected with over 1.1 million votes.
Born on August 26, 1969, in Mafa Local Government Area of Borno state, Babagana Umara Zulum pursued a career in academia before entering politics. He earned a degree in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Maiduguri, followed by a master's in the same field from the University of Ibadan, and a Ph.D. in Soil and Water Engineering from the University of Maiduguri. Zulum served as a lecturer and later as the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Maiduguri. He also held the position of Rector at the Polytechnic in Borno State.
Political ascendancy
Zulum's transition into politics began in 2015 when he was appointed Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement under Governor Kashim Shettima. In this role, he oversaw the rebuilding of communities devastated by the Boko Haram insurgency. His performance in this capacity bolstered his reputation, leading to his emergence as the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in 2018. He won the 2019 Borno State gubernatorial election with a significant majority and was re-elected in 2023.
Governance amidst insurgency
As governor, Zulum has been at the forefront of efforts to restore normalcy in Borno State, which has been severely affected by insurgent activities. He has initiated numerous projects aimed at rebuilding infrastructure, resettling displaced persons, and revitalising the state's economy. Notably, he approved the construction of 1,000 housing units for displaced persons in the Bama Local Government Area, aiming to facilitate their return to ancestral homes.
Security challenges and personal risks
Zulum's tenure has been marked by confrontations with security challenges. His convoy has been attacked multiple times by insurgents, including incidents in July and September 2020, underscoring the persistent threats in the region.
Recognition and awards
In recognition of his efforts in governance and commitment to restoring peace in Borno State, Zulum was conferred with the Nigerian National Honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in October 2022 by President Muhammadu Buhari.
