January 29, (THEWILL) – The Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Umara Zulum, has sworn in 29 Special Advisers, 27 Local Government Chairpersons, and 7 Permanent Secretaries to the Borno State Civil Service.
The oath of office was administered at an event held at the Maiduguri Government House by the Chief Judge of Borno State, Kashim Zanna, represented by Hon. Justice Haruna Mshelia.
The newly sworn-in 27 Chairpersons, including a lady from Jere Local Government, emerged as winners at the 2024 local government election held on January 20.
The 29 Special Advisers comprise Yoruba, Igbo, indigenous technocrats and politicians from across the local government of the State.
Speaking after the oath of office was administered, Governor Zulum urged the new local government chairpersons and other sworn-in officials to live up to the expectations of the government and people of the state while carrying out their various responsibilities.
“Local governments are an integral part of the overall development focus and strategy of government.
“To the elected Local Government Chairmen, while congratulating you on your victory at the polls, I urge you to discharge your duties with utmost honesty, impartiality, compassion and fairness. You must work assiduously for the actualisation of the shared prosperity mantra of our government,” Zulum said.
Zulum, therefore, requests the new council bosses to ensure adequate attention is given to tackling the menace of poverty, joblessness, and insecurity.
Governor Zulum called on the new Special Advisers to consider the interest of the state at all times while discharging their duties, noting that as advisers to the Governor, each of them works for the entire state.
“To the special advisers, you should advise devoid of personal interests or that of a section of the state. As special advisers, you are for the whole state and must consider the interest of the state first before any other interest. You are expected to provide expertise and knowledge in specific areas of focus, such as policy development, economic matters and social issues or any other field relevant to the government’s agenda,” Zulum said.
In their separate remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, the Head of Service and the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirates Affairs called on the newly sworn-in officials to imbibe strong patriotism, resolute dedication, sincerity and genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.
Delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of all the sworn-in officials, Hon. Tukur Digira extended gratitude to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for the opportunity to serve the state.
He also gave assurance to the Governor of their commitment to their responsibilities and to making a positive impact on the people of Borno State.
“We understand the weight of the responsibilities bestowed upon us. We pledge to work diligently, utilising our exceptional skills, knowledge and experience to contribute meaningfully to the success of this administration. Our advice will be honest and well-informed, Sir,” Mr. Tukur assured.
