Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, alongside four other Nigerian governors, has been nominated for the 2025 African Governors Excellence Award, scheduled to hold in Paris on August 19.
The other nominees from Nigeria are Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, and Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State.
This was disclosed in a statement by Dr. Idahosa Osamahze, Vice Chairman of the Award’s Selection Committee, who noted that the prestigious initiative aims to celebrate visionary leadership, outstanding governance, and transformative development across Africa.
“The award recognises governors whose commitment to excellence has significantly driven socio-economic transformation in their regions,” Osamahze said. “It focuses on impactful projects in healthcare, infrastructure, education, economic empowerment, and inclusive governance.”
Governors from Egypt also made the nominee list, including Abdel Amara of Kafr El Sheikh, Amr Hanafi of Red Sea, Gamal Nour El-Din of Asyut, and Khaled Fouda of South Sinai.
From Kenya, the nominees are Hillary Barchok of Bomet County, George Natembeya of Trans Nzoia, Mohamed Adan Khalif of Mandera, and Jeremiah Lomorukai of Turkana.
“These governors exemplify leadership with vision, integrity, and purpose. Their work is changing lives, fostering prosperity, and inspiring the next generation of public servants across Africa,” Osamahze added.
The Paris event is expected to attract high-profile dignitaries, development partners, diplomats, and governance stakeholders from across Africa and Europe. Highlights will include keynote speeches by global policy leaders, panel sessions on sub-national innovation, and strategic networking to promote intergovernmental collaboration.
By Babagana Wakil
