Kadafur Signs First-Ever Acting Governor Budget as Borno Approves N892.4bn for 2026

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

Borno State has officially sealed its 2026 fiscal roadmap after Acting Governor Umar Kadafur signed into law an N892.4 billion appropriation bill passed by the State House of Assembly.

Governor Babagana Zulum had earlier presented an N890.3 billion estimate to lawmakers on December 29, 2025. The Assembly then added N2.37 billion following budget defences by ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), pushing the total to N892.4 billion.

At a brief ceremony on Tuesday inside Government House, Maiduguri, Kadafur praised the swift legislative process, describing it as a reflection of accountability and public-interest governance.

“Your quick passage of this budget has ensured transparency and public interest in the critical sectoral allocations that could impact on people’s lives,” he said.

He commended lawmakers for what he called “meticulous, diligent and sustained efforts” despite tough economic conditions facing the state and the country.

The Acting Governor also acknowledged the timely approval of the Local Government Amendment Law 2000, which extends the tenure of council chairmen and councillors from two to three years—an adjustment he said would strengthen grassroots governance and improve service delivery.

Kadafur stressed that the budget signing marked an important financial direction for the year.

“This demonstrates a shared sense of responsibility and a clear understanding of the urgency of providing a sound financial framework for governance,” he said, assuring prudent management and value for money in all government projects and programs.

Beyond its fiscal impact, Tuesday’s event entered the state’s political history as the first time an acting governor would sign an annual budget into law. The development followed Zulum’s annual leave and constitutional transmission of power to his deputy.

Speaker of the House, Abdulkarim Lawan, said the Assembly adjusted the initial proposal after reviewing submissions from MDAs.

“The budget increased by N2.37 billion, translating to a total sum of N892.4 billion,” he confirmed, noting that the additions were directed mainly to the health and education sectors.

The 2026 budget is expected to guide Borno’s development priorities in a period marked by post-conflict reconstruction, economic strain, and growing demands for social services across the state.

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.

CNG Warns: Rising Drug Abuse Driving Terrorism and Youth Crime in Northern Nigeria

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

The Students’ Wing of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) says drug abuse and drug trafficking now fuel terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and other crimes in Northern Nigeria. The group covers 19 states in the region.

CNG National Coordinator Alhaji Jamilu Aliyu spoke at a public lecture in Maiduguri on Wednesday. He said many students abuse drugs because homes and schools fail to build strong moral values. According to him, all religions in the country strongly forbid drug use. Yet, the problem increases every year.

He pointed out a recent NDLEA operation in Kano that seized more than five million tablets of tramadol. He described the situation as “deeply alarming.”

Moral Decay and Dangerous Substances

Aliyu explained that moral decay pushes many youths toward illegal drugs. These substances include Indian hemp, skunks, and even reptile waste. He warned that drug addiction threatens the future of the entire North.

Moreover, he stressed that drug use among students fuels insecurity and criminal activity. He noted that the country cannot afford to ignore the danger any longer.

Leaders Call for Urgent Action

Alhaji Bulama, the Chairman of the public lecture, was present. Mali Gubio was represented by Gubio Local Government Chairman, Hon. Mali Bulama Gubio. He said the North cannot develop if youths keep consuming drugs such as cocaine and Indian hemp.

He added that people over 45 struggle to solve the problem on their own. Therefore, younger people must take responsibility and lead change.

Mentorship and Value Reorientation

The event carried the theme, “Building Responsible Students’ Leadership.” It focused on reducing drug abuse, thuggery, extremism, hate speech, and campus violence. The solution, according to organisers, lies in mentorship and value reorientation.

Major Abiya Mohammed (rtd.) addressed students from the University of Maiduguri, the College of Health Technology, and other institutions. He urged them to lead with discipline, inspiration, and positive values.

Furthermore, he warned that campuses across the country are facing rising cases of drug abuse, cultism, exam malpractice, and hate speech. He said students must adopt better values to protect their future.