Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has approved N1 billion in grants for 9,403 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Biu and Hawul local government areas. The initiative aims to revitalize local businesses, reduce poverty, and create jobs in communities affected by years of insurgency.
The grant distribution will see N603 million allocated to 5,603 entrepreneurs in Biu, while N397 million will support 2,000 businesses in Hawul. Additionally, 1,800 vulnerable youths and families will receive financial aid to start or expand their ventures. Speaking at the launch of the disbursement in Biu, Governor Zulum emphasized that the program aligns with his administration’s vision for sustainable economic development.
“We are committed to empowering our people, especially small business owners and young entrepreneurs. This initiative fulfills our campaign promise to support job creation and economic stability in Borno,” Zulum stated. He urged beneficiaries to invest the funds wisely to maximize impact.
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Infrastructure and Public Welfare Investments
Beyond economic empowerment, Zulum announced the construction of 600 housing units for teachers and healthcare workers. The housing estates, spread across Biu, Magumeri, Hawul, Gubio, and the Borno State University Teaching Hospital, will include roads, drainage systems, clinics, and sports centers.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving civil service welfare, particularly for teachers and healthcare workers. “A strong public sector is key to rebuilding Borno. We will continue to invest in housing and economic support programs,” he said.
This initiative follows a N450 million disbursement in July 2024, which supported 45,000 widows and vulnerable women. The governor stressed that these efforts are not about long-term dependency but about providing relief to those who lost their livelihoods due to the Boko Haram crisis.
