Governor Zulum’s four children wed in Maiduguri as Pantami urges marital values
Former minister highlights role of affection and mercy in marriage as high-profile ceremony draws attention in Maiduguri
By Abdullahi Yusuf
Nigeria’s former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, has called on couples to build their marriages on affection, mercy and patience, as four children of Borno State Governor prepare to wed in a widely attended ceremony in Maiduguri.
Professor Pantami made the remarks during a pre-wedding gathering held on Friday night for the children of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, dentified as Umara, Mamman, Abba and Aisha, whose wedding ceremonies are taking place on Saturday.
The event has drawn religious scholars, community leaders and dignitaries from across the region, reflecting both the prominence of the family and the cultural significance of the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Professor Pantami described marriage as a central institution in society, both socially and spiritually, and stressed that its success depends not only on love but on deeper values of compassion and endurance.
“The most successful marriage is not the one built only on love,” he said, “but the one built on affection and mercy.”
He explained that affection in marriage is rooted in genuine care and emotional connection, while mercy sustains relationships through challenges, particularly in moments of strain.
The former minister also emphasised patience as a defining quality in lasting unions, linking it to tolerance, forgiveness and mutual respect between spouses.
“We are all products of marriage,” he said, pointing to the sacrifices made by parents and the role of perseverance in sustaining family life.
His comments come amid growing concern in some communities about rising rates of marital breakdown, particularly among younger couples. He attributed many early separations to impatience and a lack of tolerance.
Professor Pantami urged young people to embrace contentment and understanding, saying these qualities are essential in building stable homes and, by extension, cohesive societies.
He concluded by offering prayers for the couples and families involved, asking for blessings and unity in their marriages.
The ceremonies in Maiduguri are expected to continue over the weekend, marking one of the most prominent social gatherings in the state in recent times.
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