Why I chose Engr Gubio as my successor — Zulum

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has explained why he endorsed the state Commissioner for Works, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, as his preferred successor ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

Mr Zulum publicly backed Gubio for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket while presenting him with the party’s expression of interest and nomination forms in Abuja.

In a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, Zulum said his decision was driven by the need to sustain the developmental strides recorded under his administration.

According to the governor, Gubio possesses the discipline, competence, and commitment required to consolidate on the achievements already made in the state.

“I know how I came in as Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (RRR), and how the office helped shape a governance standard that changed the lives of our people.

“Engr. Gubio has demonstrated similar discipline, courage, and uncommon commitment to public service,” Zulum said.

The governor noted that Gubio distinguished himself through the supervision of major infrastructure projects, especially housing developments in both urban and rural communities across the state.

“He demonstrated exceptional capacity in overseeing critical infrastructure, particularly housing development across metropolitan and rural communities, which has significantly improved living conditions in the state,” the statement said.

Beyond infrastructure, Zulum also commended Gubio’s role in rebuilding communities devastated by insurgency during his tenure as Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement.

According to the statement, Gubio spearheaded efforts to restore public facilities and essential services in conflict-affected areas, including Bama, Konduga, Damasak, and Mafa Local Government Areas.

“He is widely recognised for driving reconstruction efforts in conflict-affected communities, ensuring the restoration of schools, healthcare facilities, and other critical infrastructure,” the statement added.

The governor said Gubio’s performance aligns with his administration’s broader vision of recovery, stability, and sustainable development, making him a natural choice to continue the state’s progress.

“His dedication to rebuilding lives and communities, coupled with his proven administrative competence, underscores the confidence reposed in him to consolidate the gains already achieved and advance the development agenda of Borno State,” the statement stated.

Mr Zulum further described the endorsement as a strategic decision rooted in continuity, experience, and the determination to keep Borno on the path of peace, resilience, and transformational governance.