Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has been honored with the 2026 Quintessence Pan-African Top Leadership Award. The award ceremony, held in New Jersey, recognized Zulum's distinguished accomplishments in his field of endeavor and outstanding contributions to the history and heritage of African people. The governor dedicated the award to the resilient people of Borno and Nigerians working to restore dignity and opportunity to their communities.
The Quintessence Award is presented annually to one continental African leader and one African American leader. This year's edition was chaired by Professor Ibrahim Gambari, former Chief of Staff to the late President Muhammadu Buhari. Notable attendees included the Governor of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum, Dr Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq; Emir of Kano, HRH Muhammad Sanusi II; Nigerian Ambassador to Ethiopia; the Consul General of Nigeria in Atlanta; and former Nigerian Minister of Finance, Dr Mansur Mukhtar.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Governor Zulum emphasized that the recognition was not solely for him, but for everyone who had worked tirelessly to turn ideas into action and improve people's lives. He stated that his upbringing in a farming community in Mafa Local Government Area shaped his belief that leadership should open doors for others, particularly children whose potential might otherwise go unnoticed.
Zulum reflected on Borno's recovery from the Boko Haram insurgency, highlighting his administration's focus on rebuilding homes, schools, health facilities, and other public infrastructure. Since assuming office in 2019, his administration has reconstructed over 30,000 homes, schools, clinics, and other public facilities. In his first year alone, 326 projects were completed, including over 6,000 houses for families affected by the conflict.
The governor described the projects as more than statistics, representing shelter for displaced families, classrooms for children, and health centers where mothers could receive care. He urged Nigerians and other Africans in the diaspora to invest not only their money but also their skills and ideas in businesses, education, and healthcare back home. Zulum emphasized that Africa's greatest asset is its young people and called for greater investment in their education, health, and creativity.
Zulum encouraged the diaspora and international partners to support start-ups, technology hubs, teacher training, and stronger institutions. He described leadership as service rather than status, urging teachers, healthcare workers, business owners, and others to make a difference in their communities without waiting for an official title. The governor was accompanied at the event by the First Lady of Borno State, Dr Falmata Babagana Zulum, and other dignitaries.
In his concluding remarks, Zulum emphasized that leaders are enablers, not distant rulers. He encouraged Nigerians to invest in their communities and make a positive impact. The award ceremony celebrated Zulum's achievements and recognized his commitment to serving the people of Borno and Nigeria.
Key points
- Borno State Governor receives 2026 Quintessence Pan-African Top Leadership Award.
- Governor Zulum dedicates award to resilient people of Borno and Nigerians working to restore dignity and opportunity.
- Governor Zulum urges Nigerians in diaspora to invest in businesses, education, and healthcare back home.
