Yobe’s Governor Buni Honored in Maiduguri as Borno Unveils New Housing, Bridge Projects

By Abdulkareem Haruna

Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State received a significant honor on Wednesday, December 11, during the commissioning of projects in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State. His colleague and friend, Professor Babagana Zulum, named one of the newly constructed ultra-modern housing estates, which consists of 500 units, in his honor.

This recognition for the Yobe governor was part of a broader initiative led by Borno state Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, who invited him as a special guest of honor to cut the tape of four significant critical infrastructure in the capital city.


Governor Zulum, addressing a crowd of dignitaries and citizens at the commissioning ceremony, emphasized the significance of the projects in transforming the lives of residents.

“These housing units and infrastructure construction are not just buildings and roads; they represent our unwavering commitment to providing affordable housing, improving infrastructure, and fostering economic growth in Borno State,” Zulum stated.

The housing units, officially named Maimala Buni 500 Housing Estate, reflect a collaborative spirit between the two states, which have faced numerous challenges together, particularly in the wake of the recent insurgency that devastated their communities.

Governor Buni who was received amidst pump and pageantry was led though the sites of four critical projects which compromised the Njimtilo 500 Housing, the multi billion naira Borno Express overhead bridge, the Shehu Sanda Kura dualised township road and of course the 201 Metro Housing Estate.

The visiting governor expressed his gratitude for the honor, stating that the “recognition reflects the excellent age-long brotherhood that exists between our dear states. We have always identified with one another, shared both good and challenging moments, and today, we celebrate our resilience together.”

The ceremony also marked the renaming of Shehu Sanda Kura Road in honor of the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Garbai Elkanemi, further highlighting the region’s commitment to honoring its leaders and heritage.

Zulum reiterated the importance of these projects, saying, “The Borno Express Flyover is an iconic structure that will revolutionize transportation in our state, thereby reducing travel time and providing a safer commuting experience.”

Governor Zulum said among the newly commissioned housing estates, the Metro Housing Estate, now named after the Vice President as Kashim Shettima Housing Estate, will be allocated specifically to military officers, security personnel, and federal workers, aimed at alleviating the housing challenges faced by these groups.

Governor Zulum announced that the 210 of the Mai Mala Buni housing units would be designated for police officers currently residing in the Metro Police Barracks. This move will facilitate the construction of a state-of-the-art International Conference Centre on the vacated site, further contributing to the region’s economic revitalization.

Governor Buni said in his remarks that his visit to Borno was not a mere occasion for projects commissioning but a move that highlighted the collaborative efforts of both states in overcoming the challenges posed by insecurity and infrastructural decay.

“As we are all aware, Borno and Yobe states have always been one. We are a people binded by the same culture and tradition that are simply demarcated for administrative convenience.

“We have always identified with one another, shared the good and the challenging moments together. We have also shared the sad and unfortunate insurgency security challenge which claimed many precious lives, displaced millions of our people, and destroyed critical infrastructures, drawing us many years backwards.

“Today, Borno and Yobe states are both striving to emerge out of that challenge by adopting the Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Recovery programme.

”I am indeed glad to see that we are moving so fast to improve the conditions of our people to live with dignity.

“This year alone, Yobe State launched a multi-billion Naira agricultural empowerment program, redefining agricultural production and supporting vulnerable groups with financial assistance.”

Buni emphasized that these initiatives, alongside Borno’s development projects, are laying a solid foundation for a prosperous future for both states.

Buni’s heartfelt appreciation extended to Zulum and his administration for their dedication and teamwork in executing these impactful projects.

“Congratulations to your Excellency for assembling a fine team that has paid off with very fruitful results. To the beneficiaries who have shown resilience, I congratulate you for these projects that will add value to your lives,” he remarked.

Furthermore, Buni called on the people of Borno to continue supporting their state government. “Your cooperation with the policies and programs of the government will create a conducive atmosphere for more positive initiatives to serve you better. There are more and better opportunities ahead for our people to live their lives with dignity,” he urged.

In closing, Governor Buni extended an invitation to Zulum to attend the commissioning of legacy projects in Yobe, reinforcing the partnership between the two states. He also expressed gratitude to the federal government, security forces, and non-governmental organizations for their support in restoring peace and facilitating development in the region.

“Before I end this address, I wish to extend our profound gratitude to the federal government under the able leadership of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and his loyal Vice President, His Excellency Kashim Shettima GCON, for the various support extended to our states, I would also like to appreciate the security forces, para military agencies, Civilian JTF and vigilantes for their commitment to instituting security across our states and the country.”