- Governor Zulum transferred power to Deputy Kadafur for a 28-day vacation, ensuring state affairs are managed during his Hajj trip
- Zulum’s presence on the pilgrimage with 1,815 Borno pilgrims highlights his commitment to their welfare, sparking reactions among officials
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has transferred power to his deputy, Umar Usman Kadafur, as he departs for the 2024 Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
Zulum joined 1,815 Borno pilgrims on this spiritual journey.
During an emergency session on Friday, the Speaker of the Borno House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkareem Lawan announced that the governor will be on a 28-day vacation. He stated that the deputy governor will oversee state affairs from June 10 to July 8, 2024.
The speaker noted that this decision complies with section 190 (1) of the Nigerian Constitution, ensuring the deputy governor has full authority during this period.
This marks the second time Governor Zulum has entrusted Kadafur with this responsibility. The first instance was in April 2021, when Zulum took a 21-day vacation.
Governor Zulum departed on the last flight of 175 pilgrims from Maiduguri International Airport at 2:35 AM, arriving at Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Madina, at 8:10 AM.
Accompanied by government officials and politicians, Zulum is expected to begin his Hajj pilgrimage immediately upon arrival in Makkah, where Borno State pilgrims are housed.
The governor’s visit has sparked reactions among pilgrims and officials eager to understand his reasons for making this trip.
Pilgrims expressed optimism for improved welfare, while state pilgrims board officials anticipated a challenging task.
One official remarked, “Governor Zulum will not rest and will ensure we don’t either. He will scrutinize every detail. While the pilgrims celebrate his presence, we know it will be a demanding time.”
Governor Zulum’s dedication to overseeing the pilgrimage highlights his commitment to the well-being of Borno State’s pilgrims.