By HAMZA SULEIMAN

Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno has explained his decision to anoint Mustapha Gubio as his preferred successor ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, on Wednesday, the governor said the move was aimed at sustaining the development strides recorded under his administration.

Zulum made the clarification in Abuja while presenting Gubio with the expression of interest and nomination forms of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“I know how I came in as Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (RRR) and how the office shaped a governance standard that changed the lives of our citizenry. Engr Gubio has demonstrated similar discipline, courage and uncommon commitment to public service,” Zulum said.

He noted that Gubio had shown exceptional capacity in overseeing critical infrastructure projects, particularly in housing development across urban and rural communities, which had significantly improved living conditions in the state.

The governor added that beyond infrastructure, Gubio had played a key role in rebuilding communities affected by insurgency, especially during his tenure as Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement.

According to the statement, Gubio spearheaded reconstruction efforts in conflict-affected areas such as Bama, Konduga, Damasak and Mafa Local Government Areas, ensuring the restoration of schools, healthcare facilities and other essential services.

Zulum said the achievements aligned with his administration’s vision of recovery, stability and sustainable development, describing Gubio as a natural choice to consolidate ongoing progress.

The governor emphasised that the endorsement reflected a strategic decision anchored on continuity, experience and a commitment to maintaining peace, resilience and transformational governance in Borno. (NAN)