By Abdullahi Alhassan
Kaduna, Nigeria- June 16, 2026 (Series News Online) - Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has assigned portfolios to nine newly sworn-in commissioners and approved the creation of a Ministry of Planning and Economic Development. The move is aimed at strengthening governance and accelerating the state’s post-conflict recovery.
“The appointments and new ministry structure take immediate effect, following the screening and confirmation of the commissioners by the Borno State House of Assembly,” the government stated.
Announcing the changes on behalf of the governor, the Secretary to the Borno State Government, Bukar Tijani, FASN, FSSN, JAAS, said the restructuring is part of ongoing efforts to improve service delivery and consolidate reconstruction gains.
“The restructuring forms part of ongoing efforts to enhance service delivery, drive economic growth, and consolidate gains made in rebuilding communities affected by insurgency,” Mr. Tijani stated.
New Commissioners and Portfolios Governor Zulum assigned the following commissioners to head key ministries:
1. Hon. Satumari Abdulaziz Samaila – Ministry of Inter-Governmental Affairs and Special Duties
2. Hon. Babagana Malarima – Ministry of Religious Affairs
3. Hon. Maina Yaumi – Ministry of Planning and Economic Development
4. Hon. Engr. Tijjani Alkali Goni – Ministry of Water Resources
5. Hon. Arch. Isa Garba Haladu – Ministry of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement
6. Hon. Engr. Mohammed Habib – Ministry of Environment
7. Hon. Engr. Dr. Bawu Musami – Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources
8. Hon. Ibrahim Hala Hassan – Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism
9. Hon. Engr. Adam Bukar Bababe – Ministry of Works and Housing
“The newly created Ministry of Planning and Economic Development is expected to play a central role in coordinating state policies, long-term planning, and strategies to stimulate investment and economic activity in Borno State,” Mr. Tijani said.
“Governor Zulum urged the commissioners to recommit to public service and redouble efforts toward the effective implementation of government policies and programmes as his administration enters the final phase of its tenure,” the statement noted.
He directed the new appointees to work closely with civil servants to ensure efficient service delivery.
“He directed them to work closely with permanent secretaries, directors, and other ministry staff to ensure efficient operations and to guarantee that residents of Borno State benefit more directly from democratic dividends,” Mr. Tijani stated.
The government directed immediate resumption of duties for all appointees.
“All commissioners are to resume duties in their respective ministries with immediate effect,” the statement added.
“The governor’s latest appointments and structural adjustments signal a push to consolidate governance gains and sustain momentum on reconstruction, rehabilitation, and economic revitalisation across the state,” Mr. Tijani stated.
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