TELL Magazine has today 17th August 2020 awarded the executive Governor of the State of Borno, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum for his selfless service to the people of Borno State and his zero personal interest in the governance of the State. The award, which was presented to the governor at a surprise event at the Government House’s Multipurpose Hall in Maiduguri, was according to veteran journalist and TELL’s editor-in-chief ‘Nosa Igiebor, a recognition of his courage and commitment, as well as honesty which is more or less rare among political leaders in his position. TELL had visited Maiduguri on Sunday 16th August 2020 without making known their intentions. Although it is only August, Professor Zulum is already being given awards for his sterling leadership qualities.

Igiebor said, “Leadership entails courage, commitment to the ideals of selfless service and unwavering dedication to pursue the for the benefits of the people you lead and serve. Since your assumption of office as Governor, you have consistently demonstrated these sterling qualities of leadership.

“Your style and substance are unmistakable and a welcome breath of fresh air to Nigeria’s sterile political space of self-aggrandisement. We are, indeed, very impressed by your resolve and determination to succeed in your mandate of delivering the dividends of democracy to the long-suffering people of Borno. While some other state administrators, including those whose domains enjoy relative peace, reel out excuses to the citizenry, you have remained undaunted in fulfilling your promise to a State that is under siege.

“Your boldness to state things in black and white no matter the circumstances, has endeared you to many. In short, you have become the voice of the voiceless as you have proven that Government is not for the fainthearted, neither is timidity or criminal silence a prerequisite for real term growth and development.

“In view of the impressive profile that Your Excellency has built in a relatively short time and which has gone a long way to restore hope, not only to the people of Borno State, but to the entire Nigerian citizenry, it is with much delight that the Executive Directorate of Tell Communications Limited is honoring and celebrating the most Courageous and Result-Oriented Governor in Nigeria, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, with the Tell Special Award as Governor of the Year for Courage in Leadership (2020). Congratulations sir.”

Professor Zulum said that the award is a charge to him to do better, and it makes him feel challenged to do more. He commended the editor-in-chief and described him as a rare journalist.