By Ahmed Aliko Ahmed

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum is not just a politician; he is a man who feels things. He feels the weight of responsibility for his people, the sting of loss after years of conflict, and the burning desire to rebuild Borno into something even better than it was before.

You see it in the way he fearlessly travels to even the most remote and dangerous areas abandoned for a very long time, some more than ten years, not for photo ops, but for fact-finding and to genuinely connect and to see for himself.

He has seen firsthand the devastation inflicted by the insurgency, and he carries those stories with him, fuelling his drive to make a difference.

He understands the challenges facing Borno, the interwoven threads of security, economic hardship, and social disruption that must be addressed to truly create a lasting change.

It is not enough to simply rebuild what was lost; Zulum’s vision is about building something stronger, something more resilient, something that reflects the enduring spirit of the Borno people.

It is this deep empathy, this genuine human connection, that is at the heart of two transformative projects recently unveiled in Borno State. the Ngarannam Livestock Improvement and Ranch Settlement locally called [RUGA] and the Banki International Cattle Market.

These are not just about economics and infrastructure; they’re about restoring dignity, rebuilding communities, and offering a tangible path towards a brighter future. They represent a holistic approach to recovery, recognising that true progress requires not only economic opportunity but also social and cultural revitalisation.

These projects are about more than just providing resources; they are about empowering individuals and communities to take control of their own lives.

Zulum understands that rebuilding a state is not only about bricks; it’s about rebuilding lives. It’s about giving people the tools they need to become self-reliant, to regain their sense of purpose, and to reclaim their lives lost.

He recognises the deep connection between the people of Borno and their pastoralist heritage, understanding that this connection is not just economic but cultural. To me, these projects can also be seen as designed to honour that heritage while providing opportunities for growth and adaptation in a changing world.

Ngarannam: A Sanctuary of Hope for Nomadic Families

The Ngarannam ranch isn’t just a collection of buildings; it’s a lifeline. It’s a place where at least 400 nomadic families, displaced by the Boko Haram insurgency, can finally find stability and security. It’s a place where children, who have known little but conflict and displacement, can finally go to school, where families can access healthcare, and where communities can begin to heal. It’s a place where the traditions of pastoralism can be passed down to future generations, ensuring that this vital part of Borno’s cultural heritage is preserved and a sustainable economy develops along with time.

The ranch is a testament to Zulum’s commitment to providing comprehensive support for the most vulnerable members of society. He understands that these families have lost not just their homes but also their livelihoods, their sense of community, and their connection to their traditions.

Ngarannam is designed to restore all of these, providing a safe and supportive environment where families can rebuild their lives and their future.

It’s also a place where they can raise cattle. Because Zulum understands that for these families, their pastoralist heritage is more than just a way of life; it’s part of their identity.

The ranch offers them the opportunity to continue that tradition, but in a more sustainable and secure environment. It’s a chance to blend tradition with innovation, to utilise modern techniques to improve livestock production, and to create new economic opportunities.

As a cattleman myself, I’m overjoyed to see my nomadic cousins nearby with access to education, health, security, shelter, and a thriving market. This comprehensive support is vital for these communities and our shared pastoral heritage. For years, our people have wandered, facing dangers and uncertainties. Now, their children can go to school, can have access to hospitals when needed, and can finally have a place to call home. This is more than we could have ever hoped for.

Banki: A Marketplace of Dreams Reborn

The Banki International Cattle Market is more than just a place to buy and sell livestock; it’s a symbol of resilience. It represents the return of commerce, the revival of the local economy, and the reconnection of communities. It is a place where people can come together to rebuild their lives.

This market is not just focused on trade within Nigeria; it is designed to boost commerce across borders, connecting Borno State and Nigeria in general with not only Cameroon but also Chad and beyond.

This has the potential to significantly expand economic opportunities for the region and strengthen ties between neighbouring countries. It’s a recognition that economic recovery in Borno is inextricably linked to regional stability and cooperation.

The market is a testament to Zulum’s vision for a thriving and interconnected Borno. He understands that economic recovery is not just about attracting large corporations; it’s about empowering small businesses, supporting local traders, and creating opportunities for ordinary people.

The Banki market is designed to do just that, providing a platform for local farmers and pastoralists to connect with buyers from across the region and beyond.

I am from Gulumba; my own constituency is Gulumba/Woloji, a place with remarkable people, good leaders, and good representation, of which Banki is an integral part. I have seen firsthand how important this market is for our communities, which rely heavily on farming and cattle herding.

Growing up, I know how vital this market is for us. Today, it is not just about selling cattle; it’s about connecting with our neighbours, rebuilding our livelihoods, and restoring the heart of our community.

Before the insurgency, Banki was a bustling hub of trade, a place where people from all over the region came to do business. So much was lost during the conflict, but this market gives hope that we can rebuild and reclaim our place as a centre of commerce.

A Vision of Hope, Forged in Action

These two projects, Ngarannam and Banki, represent a powerful combination of economic revival, compassion, and leadership. They address both the immediate needs of the people and the long-term goals of economic recovery and regional integration. They are not isolated initiatives but rather part of a larger plan to rebuild Borno physically, economically, and socially.

They are a testament to Zulum’s leadership, his commitment to his people, and his deep belief in the potentials of Borno. They are a sign that even in the face of immense challenges, hope can take root, communities can rebuild, and a brighter future is possible.

These projects are a powerful testament to the resilience of Borno and its people and a clear vision for a more prosperous and interconnected future. They represent not just a recovery from conflict but a transformation, a move towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all the people. They are a testament to the power of hope, the resilience of the human spirit, and the dedication of a leader who truly cares about his people.

Ahmed Aliko Ahmed is a Senior Special Assistant To Governor Babagana Umara Zulum on DDR
alikogulumba@gmail.com