Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has sanctioned a N1 billion grant to support 9,403 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Biu and Hawul Local Government Areas. This initiative aligns with the state’s broader economic empowerment strategy, aimed at strengthening local businesses, generating employment opportunities, and alleviating poverty.
During the grant disbursement ceremony in Biu, Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering dedication to empowering small business owners and fostering youth entrepreneurship. He emphasized that this initiative is a fulfillment of his campaign promises, focused on building a robust economic foundation for Borno State.
A breakdown of the beneficiaries shows that:
- 5,603 entrepreneurs in Biu will share N300 million,
- 2,000 business owners in Hawul will receive N700 million,
- 1,800 youth and vulnerable families will also benefit from the initiative.
The governor urged all recipients to invest their funds prudently to maximize the impact on the state’s economic growth and development.
As part of his government’s social investment efforts, Governor Zulum directed the Borno State Social Investment Management Programme (BOSIMP) to identify 2,000 additional vulnerable youths for inclusion in the next phase of the initiative.
Beyond economic empowerment, Governor Zulum also launched a major housing project, laying the foundation for the construction of 600 housing units across five locations in the state. These homes are intended to provide better living conditions for essential public sector workers, particularly teachers and healthcare professionals.
The project includes:
- 100 housing units each in Biu, Magumeri, Hawul, and Gubio for teachers,
- 200 units at the Borno State University Teaching Hospital for healthcare workers.
Each estate will be equipped with clinics, roads, drainage systems, and sports centers to enhance the quality of life for its residents.
Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of civil servants, particularly teachers and healthcare professionals, as part of efforts to enhance public service delivery. He emphasized that economic empowerment and improved living conditions are crucial to the long-term rebuilding and development of Borno State.
This initiative builds upon previous interventions, such as the N450 million disbursed in July 2024 to support 45,000 widows and vulnerable women affected by the Boko Haram crisis. While such financial aid provides immediate relief, the governor stressed that his ultimate goal is to create sustainable opportunities that enable people to become self-reliant and rebuild their livelihoods.
