BORNO: Gov Zulum presents staff of office to Shehu of Dikwa

Alhaji Ibrahim ascended as the 13th Shehu of Dikwa following the passing of his predecessor, Alhaji Mohammed Ibn Shehu Masta II.

Speaking at the palace, Governor Zulum urged the new monarch to leverage his position to address insecurity in the region, particularly the Boko Haram insurgency.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ending the insurgency before the conclusion of his tenure, emphasizing the crucial role of traditional institutions in achieving this goal.

“The Staff of Office symbolizes dedication and commitment to serving your people in areas such as security, education, and environmental development,” Zulum stated.

He highlighted the emirate’s agricultural potential, given its proximity to Chad and Cameroon in the Lake Chad Basin, and encouraged the Shehu to engage the youth in productive ventures to foster self-reliance.

Governor Zulum also called for unity within the emirate, urging the Shehu to work inclusively with all ruling clans, given the peaceful and collaborative nature of the succession process. He also commended the kingmakers for conducting the selection in accordance with established laws and traditions.

Reaffirming his administration’s support, Zulum pledged to enhance infrastructure in Dikwa, including the accelerated reconnection of the town to the national power grid.

He acknowledged the progress made in restoring peace to Borno State and commended security forces, including the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), for their sacrifices in combating insurgency over the past 16 years.

“I am pleased to note that Borno State is witnessing significant improvements in security, marking a positive shift from the challenges of the past,” he added.

The governor expressed gratitude to the Sultan of Sokoto, HRH Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, and other traditional rulers who attended the ceremony.

In his response, the Shehu of Dikwa expressed appreciation to Governor Zulum for his efforts in preserving traditional institutions and improving infrastructure. He also appealed for the extension of road rehabilitation from Maiduguri to Gamboru Ngala border towns and pledged to uphold peace, security, and unity in Dikwa and the state at large.

The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Borno, Umar Usman Karafur; Ambassador Babagana Kingibe; former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff; APC Deputy National Chairman Ali Bukar Dalori; senators representing Borno’s three senatorial districts; Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly; and members of the House of Representatives.

Also present were traditional rulers from Nigeria, Cameroon, and Chad, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III; Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Umar Garbai Elkanemi; Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli; Emir of Fika, Dr. Muhammadu Abali Ibn Muhammadu Idrissa; Emir of Lafia, Hon. Justice Sidi Bage; and representatives of other emirs from Bauchi, Katsina, Hadejia, Gwandu, Misau, and Kazaure.

Prior to the ceremony, Governor Zulum inaugurated two key projects in Dikwa: an ICT center and a government lodge.