Gov. Zulum’s spokesman, Isa Gusau, dies in India
Malam Isa Gusau, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, has passed away in India after battling a prolonged illness. Gusau, a seasoned journalist and media strategist, contributed significantly to the field of journalism and public relations.
Gusau’s career included roles as a Correspondent, Bureau Chief, Regional Editor, and Deputy Editor at Daily Trust Newspapers. Notably, he was the first recipient of the Board Chairman’s Star Award and cash prize for integrity in the journalists’ category during his time at Daily Trust. In March 2012, Gusau resigned from Daily Trust to explore public relations activities, taking up the role of Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to then Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima.
Throughout Shettima’s two tenures, Gusau served as a media strategist, showcasing his skills and dedication. After the 2019 governorship election, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum appointed Gusau as his media strategist in June 2019. This appointment continued until May 2023 when political appointments were terminated ahead of Zulum’s second term.
In June 2023, Zulum reappointed Gusau as his media strategist, a position Gusau held until his untimely demise. Gusau was highly educated, holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations, Media, and Advertising with First Class Honours from Middlesex University in London, United Kingdom. He also earned a Masters Degree (MA) in Public Relations and Media with the highest classification of distinction from the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom.
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Gusau’s educational achievements further included another Masters Degree and Post Graduate Diploma in Industrial and Labour Relations from the University of Maiduguri. He also held an OND and HND in Mass Communication from Kaduna Polytechnic, where he stood out as one of the most outstanding graduates of the department. His contributions to journalism, public relations, and his commitment to excellence leave an indelible mark on the profession and the state of Borno. The news of his passing is met with deep sorrow, and his legacy will be remembered in the hearts of those who knew and worked with him.