By Abdullahi Abdulrazak
The Anglican Church of Nigeria has conferred a ‘Purposeful Leadership in Challenging Times’ award to Borno State Governor, Babagan Umara Zulum.
The presentation of the award took place at the Anglican Church of Nigeria Communion, Port Harcourt and was graced by six hundred clergies, 20 Archbishops, 144 Bishops, and hundreds of reverends.
Receiving the award, Governor Zulum who was represented by the Borno State Head of Service, Barrister Simon Malgwi thanked the church for identifying with the governor despite Borno’s predicament.
“I have received several awards but this one is very special because it came from clergy and it came from a church to one that is not a Christian and your decision speaks volumes of the objectivity and sincerity of purpose of the award. I very much cherish and value this award,” the governor said.
Most Reverend Dr Henry Ndukuba, Head of Anglican Church in Nigeria while presenting the award to the governor commended Zulum for showing a high sense of impartiality in the distribution of political appointments among citizens of the state without prejudice to their religion or ethnicity.
“This award supersedes religion. We are tired of leaders that are not responsible and that is why we the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion deemed it fit to honour those who have excellently proven themselves worthy in serving their people: We intend to bring to the fore the selfless service of leaders in such a trying time and Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State stands out”, Primate Ndukuba declared amidst ovation in the church.
“Professor Babagana Zulum is a true leader, worthy of emulation and we are proud to have him among leaders in the country. He has been attacked severally while discharging his duties but he continued to show zeal and passion to bring hope to the state that’s suffered a 12-year insurgency. We pray God to continue to guide, protect, bless and uplift Professor Babagana Zulum now and always,” he said.
