Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has taken the state’s search for new sources of skills, technology and investment to Canada, where he is expected to pursue partnerships with universities, research institutions and private-sector operators.
Zulum arrived in Canada for a series of strategic engagements focused on education, technology, agriculture, livestock, industrial development and investment. The visit is part of his administration’s effort to strengthen Borno’s human capital while expanding economic activity beyond traditional sectors.
During the trip, the governor is scheduled to meet representatives of Canadian universities, technology hubs and agricultural research institutions. The discussions are expected to centre on technical assistance, knowledge exchange and opportunities for Canadian investment in the state.
Education forms a major part of the proposed engagements. Zulum is seeking scholarship opportunities for Borno students and collaboration that could expand access to specialised training. The administration also plans to explore vocational programmes designed around current labour-market needs, with emphasis on practical skills that can improve young people’s employability.
Technology is another key area on the governor’s agenda. His delegation will examine possible partnerships with Canadian technology companies to strengthen digital literacy in Borno and support the creation of innovation hubs in Maiduguri.
Such facilities could provide young people with access to digital training, technological tools and platforms for developing new ideas and businesses. For a state rebuilding its economy after years of insurgency, the administration sees technology and skills development as part of the foundation for a more diversified workforce.
Zulum is also expected to draw on Canada’s agricultural expertise to address challenges confronting Borno’s food and livestock sectors. Discussions will cover modern farming methods, livestock production and improvements to agricultural value chains.
The objective is to increase productivity while creating stronger links between producers, processors and markets. The proposed collaboration could also support efforts to improve food security by introducing technical knowledge and practices suited to the state’s agricultural environment.
Investment promotion will feature prominently before the governor concludes the visit. Zulum is expected to present Borno’s emerging investment opportunities to Canadian investors, with attention to projects capable of supporting economic recovery and sustainable development.
The Canadian engagements therefore extend beyond attracting financial capital. They combine education, technical knowledge, agricultural expertise and digital innovation in a strategy aimed at expanding Borno’s productive capacity.
For the state, the visit represents an attempt to build international relationships that can translate into scholarships, specialised training, technology partnerships, agricultural support and fresh investment opportunities.
The administration hopes such links will strengthen local institutions and equip residents with skills required in a changing economy, while giving prospective investors a clearer picture of Borno’s commercial potential.
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