…Says Constituency Projects in the Last Two Years Are Gratifying

By Ndahi Marama, Maiduguri

The Member representing Askira-Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency of Borno State, Hon. Dr. Usman Midala Balami, has denied reports circulating online and across social media platforms alleging that youths in his constituency have passed a vote of no confidence in his leadership.

Dr. Balami, a first-time lawmaker elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), described the report as baseless, unfounded, and politically motivated. He said he initially intended to ignore the publication but decided to clarify the facts for the benefit of his constituents and supporters.

Speaking to journalists in Maiduguri on Thursday, the lawmaker noted that he has maintained consistent engagement with his people, including holding quarterly town hall meetings to promote transparency and collaboration.

Responding to allegations that each House of Representatives member receives ₦1 billion annually for constituency projects, Balami debunked the claim:

“Such statements are misleading. In the 2024 budget cycle, only ₦300 million was allocated, and this has been judiciously and transparently utilized. The ₦1 billion figure being mentioned is part of a proposed allocation in the 2025 budget, which is yet to be implemented.”

Balami highlighted significant achievements during his tenure in areas such as education, healthcare, agriculture, empowerment, and infrastructure:

Education and Skills Development: Sponsored 238 JAMB candidates, provided laptops, projectors, and books, and trained 60 students in Basic and Advanced ICT in Lassa zone.

Infrastructure: Constructed classroom blocks in Askira East, Shaffa, and Grim Domchaba.

Drilled motorized boreholes in Mussa Ward, Yimirkila, and repaired others in Azare, Shaffa, Ngulde, Uba, and Yimirshika.

Installed solar-powered street lights across all 25 wards.

Facilitated construction of Sabon Kasuwa–Damudanaka–Pama rural road.

Recently procured two transformers for installation in Marama and Wamdeo to improve electricity supply.

Empowerment: Distributed sewing machines, grinding machines, motorcycles, and vehicles to 240 youths. He also facilitated the employment of graduates into federal agencies and distributed palliatives including food and non-food items.

Hon. Balami said he has sponsored seven bills, all of which have passed second reading and are advancing in the legislative process. These include:

Establishment of a Federal School of Health Science and Technology

Federal College of Fisheries and Apiculture, Askira-Uba

Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Hawul

Lassa Fever Research Institute, Askira

He also highlighted 11 motions, including:

Urgent measures to combat renewed Boko Haram attacks

Educational reforms around SSCE/WAEC

Support for the Lake Chad Basin Development Bill

Advocacy for 35% Affirmative Action for Women in leadership

Dr. Balami urged his supporters to remain focused and continue praying for peace and progress in the constituency. He reaffirmed his commitment to serving without bias toward political, ethnic, or religious affiliations.

He also issued a caution to journalists, especially those engaging in mischief or false reporting, urging them to uphold the ethics of journalism and support the democratic process through truth and integrity.

“I remain committed to an open-door policy and to putting smiles on the faces of my constituents,” he concluded.