In a significant move to ease the burden of the festive season, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has approved a comprehensive support package for over a thousand residents. The initiative provides free interstate transport fares to 750 non-indigenes and disburses direct cash gifts to 300 widows in Maiduguri.
Details of the Festive Season Support Initiative
The programme, which kicked off on Sunday, 21st December 2025, is part of the state's Annual Free Transportation Programme (AFTP). Represented by the Chairman of the Implementation Committee, Chief Ugochukwu Egwudike, Governor Zulum stated the scheme is designed to alleviate hardship for low-income workers and vulnerable groups. He emphasized its role in promoting social cohesion and national unity by reconnecting families separated by economic and security challenges.
Chief Egwudike, who also coordinates the Ohanaeze APC Support Group, provided a detailed breakdown. The transportation exercise will run for three days, covering all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. On the first day, 320 passengers will be conveyed, followed by 280 on the second day, and 150 on the third day. A fourth day is dedicated solely to the distribution of palliatives and social support for the 300 widows, orphans, and other vulnerable persons.
Financial Transparency and Past Impact
The coordinator revealed that in previous editions, beneficiaries received ₦30,000 each, paid directly into their bank accounts to ensure transparency and cushion financial constraints. He recalled that the scheme has, over the years, reunited hundreds of families who had been unable to travel home for between three to five years. "The state government’s annual gifts and transportation fares have enabled our people to celebrate Christmas with their loved ones in the South-East and other parts of the country," Egwudike noted.
Widespread Commendation from Community Leaders
The initiative has received widespread praise from community and religious leaders across Borno State. The Secretary of the state's Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Apostle Joshua Akeredolu, commended Governor Zulum for the timely and impactful intervention, especially for Christian faithful travelling for Christmas. He praised the governor's inclusive governance and offered prayers for his continued service.
Similarly, the Chief of the Idoma Community in Borno, Jonah Odoh, described the programme as a practical demonstration of humane and responsive leadership. He highlighted its positive impact on social welfare, interfaith harmony, and national integration, urging other state governors to emulate the gesture.
The Vice President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Borno State, Chief Levi Nyia, expressed profound gratitude. He stated that the free transport scheme has enabled many who would have been stranded by economic realities to reunite with their families. "The Igbo community thanks the governor and wishes him well in steering the affairs of the state," he said.
This annual programme, which began in 2020, remains a cornerstone of the Borno State Government's social intervention efforts, providing critical mobility and relief to thousands of Nigerians during the festive period.
