BY MUHAMMAD ZARMA, MARCH 04, 2026 | 09:56 PM
Lewin identified three styles of leadership: Autocratic, Democratic, and Laissez-faire. Over time, more leadership styles have emerged, and one that is commonly grouped in with Lewin's three is transformational Leadership.
Taking from the above, it's surely obvious that Prof B.G Zulum has exemplified the notion of a true leader, the quote above In a nutshell describes who Prof Zulum is. His audacity to challenge the insurmountable and change the narrative sums it all, people may find it hard to understand the personality of Zulum as a governor who knew the consequences of being a leader, a position full of glamour but at the same time full of danger, both from the people you represent or govern and those who may likely not like the path he may have taken.
Naturally you cannot be 100% perfect and nobody is disputing that, but given the circumstances I'll proudly say he is if not the best Governor in the entire country. His approach to governance may not be too orthodox but he is a goal driven and no nonsense governor, that peharps made him unique in any case, one would agree that he puts his life on the line so that those who a leader is suppose to care for are cared for.
In summary the characteristics of any good leader is closely knitted to his decisiveness, his ability to make decisions, particularly when under pressure, infact Prof Zulum has shown us that such goals, no matter how difficult it may be can and will be solved, other traits of a good leader could be fairness and bravery, I think he posseses both.He is the type that believes in possibilities even in the insane form of challenge, indeed he is not just brave but also resilient.
These are some of the qualities I see in him as an observationist , he has character, charisma, commitment, competence, courage, He is equally an advocate discernment which places his ability to perceive, understand, and judge things clearly, especially those that are not obvious or straightforward.
He is focused, generous in his actions, he listens with passion, though some may disagree ( opinionated ) , but he has a positive attitude of concern to his people ,he is not just reasonably responsible, just, but he has a culture of self-discipline, and he is a visionary
In conclusion, these are my opinion of Prof Zulum as a true and fearless leader, he is an effective and proactive leader, who sets a positive example for others. Zulum isn't afraid of challenges, like I mentioned his conviction to embrace the task ahead of him singles him out, and peharps he feels that will encourage others to do the same.
Passion and positivity are two signs of a great leader. Zulums energy to his work is contagious and that motivates others to work hard and give their best as well. He works hard, he gives his best, however immodest some may feel, but the truth is Prof Zulum is a good leader that values integrity, courage, respect, compassion, and resilience, he is also agile and often flex his influence while communicating the vision with which he took an oath to be the governor of Borno state.
He never considered himself above others and can make mistakes, however as a human being he has his moments, but in all of that, it is expected that every good leader hopes to leave behind a lasting legacy, the impact that lives beyond his and our time for the future generation of Borno citizens to attest to what he has done while serving as a governor. Ironically to him legacy should not just be something we focus on at the end of our lives, but rather how we live our lives every day, all day. Indeed Prof Zulum is that kind of person. Leadership with commitment to the people is his objective as a governor and even beyond that.
Muhammad Zarma writes from Maiduguri
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