In a notable display of political maturity, Dr. Usman Balami, a federal lawmaker from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has publicly commended the leadership and accountability framework of Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum. This commendation, offered during the presentation of the state’s 2026 budget, underscores a rare moment of bipartisan alignment on governance and development priorities in Nigeria’s often fractious political landscape.
By Hamza Suleiman
Maiduguri, Dec. 29, 2025 (NAN)
Dr. Balami, representing the Askira-Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency, spoke with journalists shortly after Governor Zulum presented the “Budget of Sustained Recovery and Growth” to the Borno State House of Assembly. His praise focused on the governor’s transparent and effective implementation of the 2025 budget, which he argued had tangibly transformed lives across the state.
Beyond Partisanship: A Case for Developmental Politics
Balami’s statement is significant precisely because of his position as an opposition figure. He framed his attendance at the budget presentation as a duty to “hold the government accountable to its people,” suggesting that oversight is not merely an adversarial act but a collaborative one aimed at ensuring results. “The development of our state or country is very critical to all political parties and stakeholders, irrespective of where you come from,” Balami asserted. He challenged the notion that party affiliation should be the primary lens for evaluating governance, advocating instead for a “unity of purpose” centered on citizen welfare.
This perspective offers a powerful model for democratic practice, where the opposition critiques constructively and acknowledges successes, thereby raising the standard for all incumbents.
Deconstructing the Accountability Framework: What Makes It Effective?
While the original report mentions an “accountability framework,” a deeper examination reveals what this likely entails in Zulum’s administration. Effective frameworks typically combine:
- Transparent Budgeting and Reporting: Public presentation of budgets and regular implementation reports, allowing citizens and lawmakers to track allocations versus expenditures.
- Visible and Verifiable Project Execution: Balami specifically pointed to “Mega schools, hospitals, housing units, worship centres” in his own constituency. This visibility is key; projects are not just on paper but are physically realized, allowing for direct public audit.
- Alignment with Long-Term Strategy: Balami noted the budget’s alignment with Borno’s “10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiative and 25-Year Development Plan.” A true accountability framework ties annual budgets to long-term goals, preventing disjointed, populist spending.
- Cross-Sectoral Prioritization: The lawmaker highlighted that “all the sectors have been given much more priority.” A holistic approach prevents lopsided development and ensures progress in interconnected areas like health, education, and agriculture, which together trigger broader growth.
The “Budget of Unity and Holistic Development”: A Deeper Look
Balami proposed renaming the 2026 budget the “Budget of Unity and Holistic Development.” This suggested title encapsulates two core principles. First, Unity speaks to the inclusive, bipartisan support for plans that serve the common good. Second, Holistic Development implies a integrated approach where investments in infrastructure, human capital, and economic revitalization are coordinated, as opposed to isolated projects. For a state like Borno, recovering from protracted conflict, this holistic approach is not a luxury but a necessity for sustainable peace and growth.
Practical Impact: Why Opposition Acknowledgement Matters
When an opposition member from the constituency validates government projects, it carries a unique weight. It moves achievements beyond government press releases and provides a form of third-party verification. Balami’s testimony that “the people of Borno state have never had it so good until now” is a powerful political statement. It suggests that development outcomes are so evident that they transcend partisan loyalty, potentially setting a new benchmark for performance that future administrations, of any party, will be expected to meet.
In conclusion, Dr. Balami’s commendation is more than a polite gesture. It is a case study in how a robust accountability framework—built on transparency, strategic planning, and verifiable execution—can bridge political divides and focus all stakeholders on the ultimate goal: measurable improvements in the lives of citizens. It highlights that true accountability doesn’t silence opposition but can convert it into a partner in progress, strengthening the entire fabric of democratic governance.
HMS/AOM
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Edited by Abdullahi Mohammed
