A coalition of youth groups, student bodies, women organisations and professional associations have endorsed the former Secretary to the Yobe State Government, Baba Malam Wali, as the preferred candidate to sustain the developmental strides of Governor Mai Mala Buni.
The endorsement was made by various groups and organisations during an event organised to celebrate Governor Buni’s seventh anniversary in office.
Those who declared support for him included the National Automobile Technicians Association (NATA), Christian Women in Politics Yobe State, the Senate President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Students’ Union Government Presidents of tertiary institutions across the state, Progressive Youths for BMW, Persons with Special Needs and Muryar Mata a Siyasar Yobe.
The groups described Baba Malam Wali as an experienced leader capable of consolidating the achievements of Governor Buni.
In his opening remarks delivered virtually, Dr. Kole Shettima, Honorary Special Adviser on Policy Delivery to the Governor of Yobe State, called for continuity in governance and policy implementation.
He also urged youths across the state to shun violence and embrace peaceful political participation to promote unity and development.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Information and Culture, Hon. Abdullahi Bego, described the Buni administration as one that had transformed the image of the state through strategic leadership and people-oriented policies.
A keynote presentation titled, ‘Communicating Hon. Mai Mala Buni’s Achievements,’ was delivered by Dr. Musa Usman of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri.
The don highlighted what he described as major milestones recorded by the administration, especially in infrastructural development.
According to him, the administration executed several projects including the International Cargo Airport in Damaturu, construction of modern markets, mega schools, road networks, expansion of healthcare facilities and establishment of agricultural processing factories.
He added that the government had also made progress in post-insurgency reconstruction, housing schemes, youth and women empowerment as well as the establishment of sesame processing factories to boost economic activities and employment opportunities.
Dr. Usman said the projects had positioned the state on the path of economic growth and sustainable development.
He stressed the need for technology-driven governance and innovation in sustaining development.
In his remarks, Baba Malam Wali, represented by the Special Guest of Honour, thanked the organisers and supporters for the confidence reposed in him.
He assured the people of Yobe State of his commitment to inclusive governance, youth empowerment and sustainable development if given the opportunity to serve.
Earlier, the Focal Person on Cyber and Information Technology, Abdulmumin Kolo Gulani, announced plans to establish a political support group to mobilise grassroots support for Baba Malam Wali’s governorship ambition ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said the initiative would focus on youth engagement, political awareness and support for continuity in governance in the state.