By Muhyideen Jimoh
Maiduguri, Dec. 20, 2025 (NAN) President Bola Tinubu’s scheduled visit to Borno State this Saturday represents a multifaceted engagement, intertwining official state duties with significant socio-political symbolism. His itinerary, which includes inaugurating key development projects and attending a high-profile wedding, underscores a strategic effort to reinforce federal presence and commitment to a region historically marred by insurgency.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this visit is a cornerstone of the President’s broader seasonal engagements across selected states, signaling a hands-on approach to governance during the festive period.
Catalyzing Economic and Security Recovery Through Infrastructure
While in Maiduguri, President Tinubu is set to commission critical projects in aviation, transport, and education—sectors pivotal to the long-term stabilization and growth of the Northeast.
The first major stop is the General Muhammadu Buhari International Airport, where new aviation facilities, including a terminal extension and a dedicated VIP wing, will be inaugurated. This development is far more than a ceremonial upgrade; it is a strategic investment aimed at boosting air transport capacity, facilitating humanitarian and commercial logistics, and improving connectivity for a region whose access has been historically constrained. The enhanced airport infrastructure is a tangible indicator of improving security conditions, as sustained air operations are contingent on a stable environment. It promises to stimulate economic activity by making the state more accessible for investors, aid organizations, and returning diaspora.
Subsequently, at Ramat Square, the President will commission a fleet of newly procured electric buses, cars, and tricycles. This initiative serves a dual purpose: modernizing urban transportation to reduce congestion and pollution, and creating direct and indirect employment opportunities through a sustainable mobility ecosystem. The choice of electric vehicles aligns with global environmental trends and positions Borno as a forward-looking state in Nigeria’s energy transition conversation.
Investing in Human Capital: The Foundation of Future Stability
In the education sector, Tinubu will inaugurate a newly constructed primary and secondary school complex named in his honour. This project is a critical component of the state government’s aggressive drive to rebuild educational infrastructure devastated by years of conflict. Beyond the bricks and mortar, the school symbolizes the restoration of normalcy and hope. Improving enrolment, especially for girls and children displaced by violence, is essential for deradicalization, poverty alleviation, and building a skilled workforce for the future. The presidential naming also embeds a federal endorsement of these local efforts, potentially attracting further attention and resources.
The Political and Social Tapestry: Beyond Official Duties
The President’s schedule then takes a distinctly socio-political turn with his attendance at the Nikkah and wedding ceremony of Sadeeq Sheriff, son of former Borno State Governor, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff. This is not a mere social call. Senator Sheriff remains a formidable political figure in the Northeast and nationally. Tinubu’s presence is a powerful gesture of political solidarity and respect, reinforcing alliances and acknowledging the influential networks that underpin governance in Nigeria. Such events are often where crucial political dialogue and rapport-building occur outside formal chambers.
Concluding his engagements in Maiduguri, President Tinubu will depart for Bauchi State to offer condolences following the passing of Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, the revered Islamic cleric and leader of the Tijjaniyya Muslim Brotherhood who died on Nov. 27. This visit is a necessary diplomatic and religious duty, acknowledging the profound influence of spiritual leaders in Northern Nigeria and demonstrating empathy with a vast community of followers. It reinforces the President’s connection to the region’s cultural and religious fabric.
The President will thereafter proceed to Lagos to spend the end-of-year holidays, concluding a trip that adeptly blends governance, politics, and cultural diplomacy—all aimed at consolidating influence and demonstrating commitment to Nigeria’s recovering northeast. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
MUYI/ RSA
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