- Zulum approved jobs for 100 unemployed graduates in Biu
- The initiative aims to reduce thuggery and youth crime
- He also urged communities to tackle drug abuse and protect public infrastructure
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has approved the recruitment of 100 unemployed graduates from Biu Local Government Area as part of efforts to reduce youth unemployment, political violence and other social problems across the state.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Zulum announced the initiative on Tuesday during a visit to the Emir of Biu, Alhaji Mustapha Mustapha II, according to a statement issued on Wednesday by his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya.
The governor was in Southern Borno to launch the 2026 wet farming season, begin the distribution of subsidised fertiliser to smallholder and returning farmers, and roll out other empowerment programmes.
He noted that although political thuggery had declined under his administration, providing jobs for young people remained the most effective long-term solution to preventing them from engaging in criminal activities.
Zulum explained that each of Borno’s local government areas would benefit from the employment programme, with 50 graduates to be recruited from most councils, while larger local governments, including Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere, Bama, Askira/Uba and Gwoza, would have 100 beneficiaries each.
He thanked the people of Biu for their continued support and warm reception, describing the farming and empowerment initiatives as part of the government’s commitment to improving livelihoods.
The governor stressed that unemployed youths are more vulnerable to recruitment into political violence and criminal activities, adding that meaningful employment offers a more lasting solution than punitive measures alone.
He observed that children of influential politicians are rarely involved in political thuggery, urging society to create better opportunities for less privileged youths.
Zulum also warned residents against vandalising public infrastructure, especially electricity installations, saying offenders would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
He appealed to the Emir of Biu and other traditional rulers to support government efforts to combat drug abuse, gang activities and other social vices threatening communities.
The governor directed Biu Local Government to identify 100 unemployed graduates, with priority given to those who studied health-related courses, English, Mathematics and Physics, particularly individuals willing to abandon political thuggery and rebuild their lives through gainful employment.
He also revealed that the running mate to the APC governorship candidate, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, would be announced next week, noting that 27 aspirants are seeking the position.
Zulum urged residents to continue praying for the emergence of the most qualified candidate to serve the state.
