In a heartwarming gesture that underscores the value of dedication and resilience, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has gifted a fully furnished two-bedroom house to Mrs. Marbel Ijeoma Duaka, a health worker from Anambra State, for her exemplary service at the Primary Healthcare Centre in Mafa Local Government Area. This remarkable act of recognition took place on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, in Mafa, a region that has faced significant challenges due to the Boko Haram insurgency. In addition to the house, Governor Zulum extended an automatic employment offer to Mrs. Duaka’s son, Anthony, a Banking and Finance graduate, at the state-owned Kashim Ibrahim University in Maiduguri, effective immediately. This gesture not only celebrates Mrs. Duaka’s unwavering commitment but also highlights the governor’s commitment to rewarding public servants who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, particularly in the face of adversity.
Mrs. Duaka, who has served at the Primary Healthcare Centre in Mafa for over 24 years, was lauded by Governor Zulum for her steadfastness and selflessness. During the presentation of the house keys, the governor recounted her extraordinary contributions, noting that she remained at her post throughout the peak of the Boko Haram crisis, a period when many others fled the town due to intense insecurity. “Mrs. Duaka has been working here for over 24 years and has never left Mafa for a single month,” Zulum said, emphasizing her resilience. He further highlighted her personal impact, stating, “She has treated most of my family members, including my mother.” This acknowledgment underscores the deep connection Mrs. Duaka has forged with the community, despite being a non-indigene from Anambra State in Nigeria’s southeast.
The event in Mafa was part of a broader initiative by Governor Zulum to reward outstanding public servants and improve living conditions across Borno State. Mrs. Duaka was among 72 teachers and health workers who received housing units during the ceremony, a testament to the governor’s commitment to uplifting those who serve the state diligently. The allocation of the house to Mrs. Duaka was formalized with a directive from the governor to issue the allocation letter in her name, ensuring her continued connection to the community. “Do not leave Mafa, even after you retire,” Zulum urged, a poignant request that reflects his desire to retain her invaluable presence in the region.
In addition to the house, Governor Zulum’s announcement of automatic employment for Mrs. Duaka’s son, Anthony, at Kashim Ibrahim University was met with widespread appreciation. This gesture not only recognizes Mrs. Duaka’s contributions but also secures a brighter future for her family, aligning with the governor’s broader vision of empowering communities through education and employment opportunities. The immediate effect of Anthony’s employment underscores the governor’s commitment to swift and impactful action, ensuring that the benefits of his administration’s policies are felt promptly by those they are intended to serve.
Mrs. Duaka’s story is particularly inspiring given the context of her service. Mafa, like much of Borno State, has been severely affected by the Boko Haram insurgency, which has displaced thousands and disrupted essential services. Despite these challenges, Mrs. Duaka remained steadfast, providing critical healthcare services to the community. Her decision to stay in Mafa, even as a non-indigene, during the height of the conflict speaks volumes about her dedication and courage. This resilience has not only earned her the respect of the local community but also the gratitude of the state’s leadership, as evidenced by Governor Zulum’s personal acknowledgment of her care for his family.
Expressing her gratitude, an emotional Mrs. Duaka described the moment as the happiest of her life. “Today is the happiest day for me because His Excellency has honoured me and appreciated what I have been doing in Mafa,” she said. She went on to recount the governor’s previous support, noting, “He provided me with a scholarship to study BSc in Health Education, today he has given my son a job and given me a house. I am truly grateful.” Her words reflect the profound impact of the governor’s recognition, not only in material terms but also in affirming her years of service and sacrifice.
This is not the first time Governor Zulum has recognized the contributions of non-indigenes serving in Borno State. In October 2022, he similarly rewarded Mrs. Obiageli Mazi, an Igbo teacher from Abia State, with a house for her 31 years of committed service and punctuality. These acts of recognition highlight the governor’s inclusive approach to governance, celebrating individuals from diverse backgrounds who contribute to the state’s development. By honoring non-indigenes like Mrs. Duaka and Mrs. Mazi, Zulum sends a powerful message about unity and the value of service, regardless of ethnic or regional origins.
The broader context of Governor Zulum’s actions reveals a leader deeply committed to rebuilding Borno State after years of conflict. His administration has prioritized initiatives that address the welfare of public servants, improve infrastructure, and restore essential services. The allocation of housing units to 72 teachers and health workers is a significant step in this direction, providing tangible support to those who have dedicated their careers to serving the state’s residents. By ensuring that these workers have access to decent housing, the governor is not only improving their quality of life but also incentivizing continued service in critical sectors like healthcare and education.
Moreover, the recognition of Mrs. Duaka and others reflects a broader strategy to foster resilience and hope in communities affected by the insurgency. By celebrating individuals who have remained steadfast in the face of adversity, Governor Zulum is reinforcing the importance of perseverance and community spirit. This approach is particularly significant in a state like Borno, where the scars of conflict are still evident, and the need for dedicated professionals in healthcare and education remains critical.
The story of Mrs. Duaka also highlights the role of women in rebuilding conflict-affected regions. As a health worker, she has been at the forefront of providing essential care, often under challenging circumstances. Her contributions have likely saved countless lives and supported the well-being of the Mafa community. By recognizing her efforts, Governor Zulum is not only honoring an individual but also acknowledging the vital role that women play in the state’s recovery and development.
The impact of this gesture extends beyond Mrs. Duaka and her family. It serves as an inspiration to other public servants, demonstrating that dedication and hard work are valued and rewarded. It also reinforces the importance of loyalty to one’s community, even in the face of significant challenges. For the people of Mafa and Borno State, this act of recognition is a reminder that their contributions matter and that their leaders are committed to supporting them.
As Borno State continues its journey toward recovery and development, initiatives like these play a crucial role in building trust between the government and its citizens. By investing in the welfare of public servants, Governor Zulum is laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient state. The allocation of housing units, combined with opportunities for employment and education, signals a commitment to long-term development and stability.
In conclusion, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s decision to gift a fully furnished house to Mrs. Marbel Ijeoma Duaka and provide employment for her son is a powerful testament to the value of dedication and resilience. This gesture not only honors an individual who has served her community tirelessly but also reflects a broader commitment to uplifting public servants and rebuilding Borno State. Mrs. Duaka’s story is one of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment, and her recognition serves as an inspiration to others. Through such actions, Governor Zulum is fostering a sense of unity, hope, and progress, ensuring that the contributions of individuals like Mrs. Duaka are celebrated and remembered as integral to the state’s recovery and growth.
