Hon. Dr. Usman Midala Balami addressing the press
The only opposition member of the National Assembly from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Borno State, Hon. Dr. Usman Midala Balami, representing Askira-Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency, has praised the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for what he described as remarkable achievements in governance over the past six years.
Balami commended the Zulum administration for executing numerous capital and people-oriented projects across the state despite the persistent Boko Haram insurgency. He noted that the governor has shown uncommon resilience in safeguarding lives and property while simultaneously driving development and transformation through quality infrastructure and essential social amenities.
According to the federal lawmaker, several facilities across the state have not only been constructed but also commissioned, fully equipped, and fitted with modern machinery to ensure effective service delivery in both urban and rural communities across the 27 local government areas, in spite of prevailing security challenges.
He described these accomplishments as clear evidence of Governor Zulum’s sacrifices, commitment, and patriotism, adding that even critics of the administration would find it difficult to deny the governor’s performance and dedication to good governance.
Balami further said the governor’s humanitarian approach and leadership style have earned him admiration and respect across party lines, describing him as “a rare gem” among contemporary political leaders.
The PDP lawmaker hinted that such exemplary leadership often motivates opposition figures to align with the ruling party, noting that he would not rule out the possibility of joining Governor Zulum’s leadership “wagon” in the future if it would enhance his ability to serve his constituents better and deepen grassroots governance.
He also disclosed that he has implemented several people-focused projects and programmes within his federal constituency and intends to do more in the broader interest of democracy, stressing that he remains a firm believer in democratic ideals.
Balami called on politicians across the country to emulate Governor Zulum’s leadership style, marked by determination, dedication, and commitment to public service. He also announced plans to launch major constituency projects in health, education, and other sectors in January 2026.
The opposition lawmaker was among dignitaries who attended Governor Zulum’s 2025 budget presentation to the Borno State House of Assembly (BOSHA). He used the occasion to commend the governor for the effective implementation of the 2025 budget, which he said has significantly improved the lives of citizens while complementing his own efforts at delivering dividends of democracy to his constituency.
His words: ” It is imperative to know that development of our state or country is very critical to all political parties and stakeholders irrespective of where you come from. Therefore, as an opposition member, i felt it is good for me to attend this important event so as to hold government accountable to its people to ensure that development is FastTrack.
“This budget tagged ‘Budget of Sustained Recovery and Growth’ is apt and timely inline with the 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiative and 25-Year Development Plan of the present administration. But for me, i want to nickname it as ‘Budget of Unity and Holistic Development’, this is because, all the sectors have been given much more priority by the Zulum administration.
“If you look at the Health, agriculture, Education and other sectors that triggers development, have received boost just like what happened in the last year budget implementation, and as PDP member, I want to salute and congratulate Governor Zulum and the good people of Borno state for all the developmental strides witnessed under the present administration.
“Although, I am a member of the opposition PDP, but when it come to development, political party membership shouldn’t have been the yardstick, but unity of purpose. The people of Borno state has never have it so good until now, and we shall continue to align with this government and always give our maximum support for Zulum to succeed.
“In the last two years of my leadership at the national assembly, you have witnessed all the tremendous efforts I did to the people of my constituency, and for me, I tends to measure development on the achievements of a good leader such as Governor Zulum who have touched almost all areas including my constituency, especially in the construction of Mega schools, hospitals, housing units, worship centres among other interventions which are glaringly visible in my constituency”. Balami stated.
