Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has pledged to accelerate the reconstruction of critical infrastructure in Malam-Fatori, headquarters of Abadam Local Government Area, as part of efforts to support residents returning to communities affected by insurgency.
Governor Zulum made the commitment on Monday during a working visit to the border town, where he inspected damaged public facilities and engaged residents on their immediate needs.
The governor inspected destroyed schools, government buildings and housing facilities across Malam-Fatori, a community severely affected by years of insurgency and displacement.
The condition of the town reflects the prolonged impact of the conflict, with abandoned and damaged buildings and public infrastructure still visible across the community.
Following the inspection, Zulum directed the immediate construction of an Islamiyya school, primary and secondary schools, as well as a hospital.
He said the provision of basic amenities was essential to enabling returnees to rebuild their lives, restore their livelihoods and provide better opportunities for their children.
“Provision of basic amenities is critical to enabling returnees to rebuild their lives, restore livelihoods, and give their children a stronger foundation for the future,” Zulum said.
The governor also held discussions with residents, allowing them to raise concerns directly with government officials and outline the challenges facing the community as normal life gradually resumes.
During the visit, Zulum also visited the headquarters of the 68 Battalion of the Nigerian Army in Malam-Fatori, where he met with the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel D. Y. Chuwar, and senior officers and troops deployed to the area.
He commended the troops for their courage and commitment to maintaining security and creating an environment conducive to the return of civilians.
Zulum assured the military of his administration’s continued support, particularly in providing essential needs to enhance their operational effectiveness.
Zulum Suspends Village, Ward Heads
Governor Zulum also ordered the immediate suspension of all village and ward heads in Malam-Fatori after expressing concern over their absence during his visit.
He directed the commencement of the process for appointing new traditional representatives to serve the returning population.
According to the governor, the absence of the traditional leaders was unacceptable at a time when residents were returning and communities were beginning the process of rebuilding.
Zulum said traditional leaders have an important role in stabilising communities emerging from conflict, particularly by maintaining communication between government and residents and strengthening community resilience.
“Traditional leaders have a critical role to play in stabilising communities emerging from conflict. Their presence is essential not only for maintaining communication between government and residents but also for strengthening community resilience and providing leadership as returnees settle into their ancestral homes,” he said.
The governor directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Hon. Sugun Mai Mele, to work with the Shehu of Borno to begin the process of appointing new village and ward heads without delay.
He said the new appointees must have proven integrity, competence, commitment and ingenuity, adding that they must understand the realities facing residents and be capable of working with government and security agencies to restore stability and development.
The visit is part of the state government’s broader efforts to facilitate the return of displaced residents and rebuild communities affected by insurgency.
Zulum was accompanied by the Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno; the member representing Abadam Constituency in the Borno State House of Assembly, Hon. Jamna Bong; the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar; the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Hon. Sugun Mai Mele; the Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Lawan Abba Wakilbe; and other government officials.
