Zulum extols deputy governor’s loyalty, teamwork at forum of deputy governors
By: Zagazola Makama
Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno has lauded his Deputy, Alhaji Umar Kadafur, describing him as a model of loyalty, humility, and teamwork in governance.
Zulum’s remarks were contained in a message presented by former deputy Governor of Abia State, Chris Akomas on his behalf at the 4th National Conference of the Forum of Deputy Governors of Nigeria held recently in Abuja.
In the message, which was read at the podium by the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, the governor said his working relationship with Kadafur over the past six years had been “truly remarkable.”
“I must confess to the government that my experience working with the Deputy Governor over the last six years has been truly remarkable. His dedication, humility, and teamwork need not be overemphasized,” Zulum said.
“I deeply cherish him, and I believe people from other parts of the country can learn from Borno State how a government should effectively collaborate with its deputy.”
Zulum’s message illustrated the uncommon harmony between the governor and his deputy a partnership widely regarded as one of the most stable and productive in Nigeria’s current political landscape.
Since assuming office in 2019, both leaders have jointly spearheaded the state’s post-insurgency recovery efforts, humanitarian interventions, and governance reforms. Their cooperation has been instrumental in sustaining peacebuilding initiatives, infrastructure development, and social welfare programs across Borno.
Zulum’s tribute not only highlighted Kadafur’s personal qualities but also offered a model of political coexistence, especially at a time when strained relationships between governors and their deputies have been a recurring feature in Nigerian politics.
The conference, which drew participants from across the federation, provided a platform for deputy governors to discuss governance challenges, leadership collaboration, and strategies for effective service delivery.
