WHO REALLY HOLDS THE POWER? Meet Borno State’s 20 Most Influential Politicians in 2026

WHO REALLY HOLDS THE POWER? Meet Borno State’s Top 20 Most Influential Politicians in 2026

As Nigeria gradually shifts its attention toward the 2027 general elections, Borno State remains one of the country’s most politically significant states. With its strategic role in national politics, security, and governance, the state continues to produce influential leaders whose decisions extend far beyond its borders.

From Maiduguri to Abuja, governors, senators, ministers, federal lawmakers, and party leaders are shaping political conversations, building alliances, and positioning themselves for the next electoral cycle. While new political actors continue to emerge, several experienced leaders remain at the center of Borno’s political landscape.

After evaluating current public office, political influence, electoral strength, grassroots support, party leadership, and statewide relevance, Media Today Nigeria presents its editorial ranking of the 20 most influential politicians in Borno State in 2026.

The 20 Most Influential Politicians in Borno State (2026)

1. Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum

Governor of Borno State and the state’s most influential political figure. His leadership in governance and security-related issues has strengthened his political standing nationally.

2. Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno

Chief Whip of the Senate and Senator representing Borno North. He remains one of the state’s most powerful voices in the National Assembly.

3. Senator Ali Ndume

Senator representing Borno South and one of Nigeria’s most experienced lawmakers with strong grassroots support.

4. Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan

Senator representing Borno Central and an influential political figure in the state.

5. Kashim Shettima

Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and former Governor of Borno State. He remains one of the most influential political leaders from the North-East.

6. Hon. Engr. Bukar Talba

Former member of the House of Representatives and respected political stakeholder.

7. Hon. Abdulkadir Rahis

Member of the House of Representatives representing Maiduguri Metropolitan Federal Constituency.

8. Hon. Ahmed Jaha

Member of the House of Representatives representing Chibok/Damboa/Gwoza Federal Constituency and an influential voice on national issues.

9. Hon. Aliyu Betara

Member of the House of Representatives representing Biu/Bayo/Kwaya Kusar/Shani Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations.

10. Hon. Mukhtar Aliyu Betara

Senior federal lawmaker with significant legislative influence.

11. Dr. Ali Modu Sheriff

Former Governor of Borno State and veteran politician with decades of political experience.

12. Senator Maina Ma’aji Lawan

Former Senate President Pro Tempore and respected political elder with continuing influence.

13. Hon. Usman Zannah

Member of the House of Representatives representing Mafa/Dikwa/Kala-Balge Federal Constituency.

14. Hon. Mohammed Monguno

Former Attorney General of the Federation and influential elder statesman.

15. Hon. Zainab Gimba

Member of the House of Representatives representing Bama/Ngala/Kala-Balge Federal Constituency and one of the state’s leading female politicians.

16. Barr. Kaka Bolori

Secretary to the Borno State Government and a key figure in the Zulum administration.

17. Engr. Mohammed Habib Zannah

Commissioner and influential member of the Borno State Executive Council.

18. Hon. Sugun Mai Mele

Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly and an important figure in the state’s legislative leadership.

19. Senator Baba Kaka Bashir Garbai

Former Senator and respected APC stakeholder with enduring political relevance.

20. Hon. Mustapha Loskuri

Member of the House of Representatives representing Jere Federal Constituency and an emerging political force.

Why These Politicians Matter

These leaders continue to shape Borno’s political direction because they:

• Occupy or have occupied strategic elective and appointive offices.
• Command influential political structures across the state.
• Play critical roles in party leadership and candidate selection.
• Maintain strong grassroots support and statewide recognition.
• Influence governance, legislation, and national policy discussions.

With political consultations already underway ahead of the 2027 general elections, Borno is expected to witness renewed alliances, strategic endorsements, and heightened political competition. Nevertheless, these twenty personalities remain among the most influential political figures driving conversations across the state today.

What’s Your Verdict?

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Who deserves a place in the Top 10?

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Share your thoughts in the comments and stay with Media Today Nigeria for more exclusive political rankings from all 36 states and the FCT.