The Northern leaders, and stakeholders led by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, represented by the Special Adviser to the President on Political matters, have called for an end to terrorism at the 10th Annual Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture and Merit Awards. on Saturday, 27th January 2024, with the aim of Creating Pathways for Peace and Tackling Banditry and insurgency through good governance for sustainable development.
The highpoint of the event organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in collaboration with the Borno State government was the presentation of 2024 Merit Lifetime Achievement Awards to prominent and patriotic Nigerians which included, Late Professor Emeritus Umaru Shehu, a distinguished physician and administrator, Professor Adamu David Baike, founding VC of Nassarawa State University, Professor Deborah Enilo Ajakaiye, the 1st female physics Professor in Africa, and Aisha Muhammad Nahuce, for returning $8000 Dollars she found during a pilgrimage to Mecca.
The Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum and Chief Host of the event, while speaking described the theme as relevant and timely in addressing the challenges faced, particularly in the wake of the Boko Haram crisis and emphasized the role of good governance in tackling insecurity.
He proposed measures like collaborative efforts, community-government reconnection, anti-corruption initiatives, prioritizing agricultural modernization, and rebuilding the civil service.
It is evident that good governance is crucial in curbing future insurgencies.
Babagana Zulum- Governor Borno State
He praised Sir Ahmadu Bello and his peers for their vision and creating a prosperous Northern Region through strategic institution-building and responsible governance.
The Chairman Board of Trustees, Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, SABMF and former Governor of Niger State, Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, in his speech, said the rise of banditry and other forms of insecurity is a direct consequence of deep-rooted socio-economic and governance issues.
Other dignitaries in attendance were, Governor of Niger State Muhammad Bago, Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Prof. Tijjani Muhammad Bande, Shehu of Borno, Dr. Muhammad Bulama, Director General of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, National Assembly members, the many traditional rulers and eminent Nigerians.
The event also highlighted the importance of effective governance in fostering sustainable development and peace.
Additionally, the foundation showcased its achievements, which include, sponsoring 300 persons through the public universities also 600 students still under going various studies.
Story: Christy Dung