Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has approved employment opportunities for 100 jobless graduates from Biu Local Government Area as part of measures aimed at reducing political thuggery, youth violence and other criminal activities.
The governor made the announcement during a visit to the Emir of Biu, Alhaji Mustapha Mustapha II, on Tuesday. His spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday.
Zulum visited Southern Borno to inaugurate the 2026 wet season farming programme, commence the distribution of subsidised fertiliser to smallholder and returnee farmers, and unveil other empowerment initiatives.
According to the governor, although insecurity linked to thuggery has reduced over the years, creating jobs for young people remains one of the best ways to keep them away from crime and political violence.
He explained that every local government in the state would receive 50 employment slots, while larger councils such as Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Jere, Bama, Askira/Uba and Gwoza would each have 100 beneficiaries.
“We are here for the flag-off of the wet farming season and the sales of fertiliser at subsidised rates. I am grateful to the people of Biu for the overwhelming support and the warm reception they have always accorded us.”
The governor said giving unemployed youths meaningful opportunities would reduce their vulnerability to criminal and political exploitation.
“We will be doing a great disservice to our youth if we allow them to continue to engage in thuggery without empowering them. You hardly find the children of prominent politicians, governors, senators, commissioners or even councillors involved in political thuggery,” he said.
Zulum also cautioned residents against damaging public infrastructure, especially electricity facilities, warning that anyone caught would be prosecuted.
He appealed to traditional rulers, including the Emir of Biu, to join the government’s campaign against drug abuse, gangsterism and other social problems.
“Your Royal Highness, we must address the rising cases of drug abuse, gangsterism and other social vices if we are to bequeath a better society to the next generation.
“We will continue to invest in our youth. I want Biu Local Government to identify 100 unemployed graduates, preferably those who studied health-related courses, English, Mathematics and Physics, especially among those involved in political thuggery, and we are ready to offer them employment opportunities,” he said.
The governor also revealed that the running mate to the APC governorship candidate, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, would be unveiled next week, noting that 27 people are seeking the position.
He called on the people of Borno to continue praying for the emergence of the best candidate.
