Zulum Launches Rayyan Microfinance Bank to Boost Ethical Financing in Borno

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has launched the Rayyan Microfinance Bank (RMFB), a digital and ethical-compliant financial institution designed to expand access to non-interest financing for residents of the state.

The unveiling ceremony took place on Sunday at Forshams’ Hall in Maiduguri, where the governor described the bank as a major step toward rebuilding livelihoods affected by years of insurgency.

Zulum noted that the bank’s model offers a wide range of financial solutions tailored to individuals, entrepreneurs, and organisations seeking non-interest loan schemes and other inclusive banking services.

“The Microfinance Bank is a critical tool for building resilience and fostering self-reliance among the people of Borno State,” he said.

He stressing that the institution will help revive businesses and provide a financial backbone for communities recovering from the 16-year Boko Haram conflict.

Beyond offering interest-free loans, RMFB is expected to promote financial inclusion through small credit schemes, savings platforms, and insurance options for low-income earners often excluded from traditional banking.

Zulum lamented the financial limitations faced by vulnerable groups, stating that many Nigerians still struggle to meet conditions set by conventional banks.

He also commended the management of Rayyan Microfinance Bank for what he described as visionary leadership, pledging full government support for the growth of ethical banking in the state.

“Under my leadership, government will partner with you to promote the ideals of non-interest banking, which are important to our economy,” he assured.

As a show of confidence, the governor directed the Borno State Ministry of Finance to immediately open an official account with the newly launched bank.

He further urged residents, cooperatives, traders and private enterprises to embrace RMFB’s services to grow their businesses, create jobs, and support the state’s broader economic recovery.

Banking experts at the event highlighted the rising prospects of ethical and non-interest finance in Nigeria, noting its potential to drive inclusive growth, support ethical investments and unlock new opportunities for small and medium businesses.

Borno Police Nab Eight in Drug Bust, Recover Large Cache of Illicit Substances

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

The Borno State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against crime and drug abuse. Operatives arrested eight suspects and recovered a large haul of illicit substances during coordinated operations in Maiduguri and Jere Local Council.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Nahum Daso, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Saturday. He said the operation took place on Thursday, January 16, 2026, after the command received credible intelligence.

“At about 16:00hrs, operatives stormed an area along Baga Road in Maiduguri and arrested eight suspects between the ages of 18 and 25,” Daso stated.

He added that officers seized various hard drugs and other illicit items believed to be for distribution.

The recovered substances included 700 wraps of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis, 10 packs of tramadol tablets, and 2,500 units of exol tablets.

ASP Daso said the suspects are in custody and investigators are interrogating them. He noted that those found guilty will be arraigned in court.

Reacting to the arrests, Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, restated the command’s commitment to eliminating drug-related crimes in the state.

He warned drug traffickers to stop their activities or face the consequences.

The command also urged residents to share timely and credible information with security agencies, stressing that community support remains vital in maintaining peace and order.

Zulum Denies Endorsing APC Candidates Ahead of Party Congresses

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has dismissed rumours suggesting he has endorsed candidates for key executive positions ahead of the forthcoming All Progressives Congress (APC) congresses at both national and state levels.

The governor made the clarification in a statement issued in Maiduguri by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, who described the reports as false and mischievous.

According to the statement, the allegations are being circulated by individuals seeking to create division within the ruling party.

“There is no truth in the claim that Governor Zulum has anointed anyone for executive positions within the APC,” Iliya said.

Zulum insisted that he has never endorsed candidates in Gwoza Local Government Area or in any of the 27 LGAs across Borno.

“Let me categorically state that I have not anointed any person for the position of Chairman or Secretary of APC in Gwoza Council during the forthcoming party congress,” the governor stated.

“I also wish to stress that I have not anointed any person for any position at the APC congress in any of the 27 LGAs.”

He urged party members and supporters to disregard the speculation, describing it as a deliberate attempt to derail the party from its focus on good governance and accountability.

Zulum instead encouraged stakeholders to participate in constructive consultations aimed at producing credible candidates for all positions through internal democratic processes.

“This is democracy at work, and through it we will continue to deliver dividends of democracy at both state and council levels,” he added.