By: Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the comprehensive reconstruction and socio-economic revitalization of Borno State, pledging robust investment in infrastructure, security, and economic recovery initiatives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s *Renewed Hope Agenda.
Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, made this declaration during a strategic working visit to Maiduguri. Speaking at multiple engagements, the Minister emphasized that the Federal Government, through the North East Development Commission (NEDC), would intensify collaboration with the Borno State Government to accelerate the rehabilitation of communities devastated by over a decade of insurgency.
Addressing stakeholders, Momoh underscored the relative peace currently prevailing in Borno and described the state as “ripe for renewed economic investment.” He also extended Federal Government support to victims affected by recent flood disasters that ravaged several communities, promising targeted intervention to restore livelihoods. “We are here to oversee the NEDC’s activities, assess their impact, and identify areas of urgent need,” he stated.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, represented by Deputy Governor Umar Kadafur, lauded the Commission’s contributions, including the distribution of relief materials, construction of residential housing units, and deployment of security vehicles. He noted that the NEDC has been instrumental in catalyzing economic activity in the Lake Chad Basin and advancing regional development in alignment with President Tinubu’s national policy thrust.
As part of his itinerary, Minister Momoh paid a historic courtesy visit to the palace of the Shehu of Borno, His Eminence Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi. Describing the engagement as a “privilege,” Momoh acknowledged the strategic importance of traditional institutions in stabilizing fragile communities and solicited the Shehu’s continued support for federal development efforts.
During the royal audience, the Minister conveyed greetings from President Tinubu and reiterated the administration’s goodwill toward the people of Borno. He hailed the Shehu’s steadfast leadership and his role in promoting peace despite the protracted threat posed by Boko Haram insurgents.
In his remarks, the Shehu offered an insightful overview of Borno’s administrative complexity, noting that his emirate encompasses 16 of the state’s 27 local government areas, supported by an intricate network of 59 districts, 596 village heads, and over 5,000 ward heads. He provided a historical lens on the origins of the insurgency, attributing it to external actors “masquerading as seekers of Quranic knowledge.”
Acknowledging recent security gains, the Shehu praised the concerted efforts of the Nigerian military, federal authorities, and the NEDC. However, he emphasized that significant challenges persist, particularly the need for employment and spiritual guidance for Borno’s youth. He also drew attention to the enormity of the state’s geography, with some senatorial districts requiring up to eight hours to traverse.
The traditional ruler further referenced the devastating effects of recent flooding and commended the Federal Government’s “commendable intervention.” Concluding the meeting, the Shehu expressed optimism about the Federal Government’s continued engagement and assured the Minister of the palace’s unwavering cooperation in the ongoing journey to rebuild, secure, and economically empower Borno State.
About The Author
