Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, witnessed heightened security on Saturday, December 20, 2025, as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived for a one-day working visit focused on inaugurating key developmental projects executed by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum's administration in collaboration with the federal government.
The Borno State Police Command announced comprehensive security deployments ahead of the presidential visit, including tactical teams, surveillance squads, crowd control units, and operatives from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit. This robust architecture was designed to ensure a safe and incident-free event, particularly given Borno's history of security challenges stemming from the long-running Boko Haram insurgency.
In a statement issued on December 20, 2025, by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso (also referred to as Nahum Daso in reports), the command detailed the measures: "The Borno State Police Command has deployed adequate security arrangements ahead of the visit of the President to Borno State scheduled for today 20th December, 2025. The state Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, has drafted a robust security architecture comprising conventional police personnel, tactical teams, surveillance squads, crowd control and Explosive Ordnance Disposal units to ensure a safe, secure, and hitch-free visit."
Daso further informed residents of temporary traffic disruptions, stating that certain roads, particularly the parallel route from Airport Road to Shehu Road in Maiduguri, might experience vehicular restrictions or diversions at intervals to facilitate VIP movements and enhance public safety. The command reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property throughout the visit, while urging cooperation, vigilance, and prompt reporting of suspicious activities.
President Tinubu's aircraft touched down at the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Maiduguri around 12:58 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., where he was warmly received by Governor Zulum, Deputy Governor Usman Kadafur, former Governor Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, members of the National and State Assemblies, and other dignitaries. The president's entourage included notable figures such as Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni and others.
Upon arrival, Tinubu immediately proceeded to commission several flagship projects. These included the extension and VIP wing of the Maiduguri International Airport's international terminal, aimed at boosting aviation capacity in the region. He also inaugurated a fleet of electric vehicles, including buses, taxis, tricycles, and an electric vehicle charging terminal, with a live demonstration of charging an electric car. These initiatives underscore efforts to promote sustainable transportation, reduce emissions, and empower residents through improved mobility and livelihood opportunities.
Additionally, the president commissioned newly constructed mega schools, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Secondary School along Shehu Palace Road, as part of broader investments in education infrastructure. Other projects involved the distribution of vehicles and tricycles at Ramat Square to support urban transport and economic activities.
During the commissioning events, President Tinubu commended Governor Zulum for his exceptional performance in delivering people-centered projects despite the state's security and developmental challenges. The visit highlighted the federal government's support for Borno's reconstruction and renewal efforts following years of insurgency-related devastation.
Beyond official duties, Tinubu attended the Nikkah and wedding ceremony of Sadeeq Sheriff, son of former Borno Governor Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, and his bride, Hadiza Kam Salem, adding a personal touch to the itinerary.
The presidential visit to Borno forms the first leg of a three-state tour, with subsequent stops in Bauchi State for condolences to the family of the late Islamic scholar Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, and Lagos State, where Tinubu will spend the end-of-year holidays. In Lagos, he is expected to participate in various engagements, including serving as guest of honour at the Eyo Festival on December 27, which will honour figures such as his late mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji.
Borno State, once the epicenter of Boko Haram's activities, has seen significant progress in security and infrastructure under Governor Zulum's leadership since 2019. The state's government had earlier called on residents to turn out en masse to welcome the president and demonstrate Borno as a "home of peace, law, and order."
The enhanced security and smooth execution of the visit reflect ongoing stabilization efforts in the Northeast region, even as challenges like residual insurgency persist. Residents largely complied with the traffic advisories, contributing to an orderly atmosphere during the high-profile event.
This working visit underscores President Tinubu's focus on acknowledging subnational developmental strides and fostering federal-state collaboration, particularly in regions recovering from conflict.
