News
Borno’s Day Of Glory

By: Inuwa Bwala
Borno has always been a melting pot of politics, leadership, religion, manufacturing, and trade. It did not therefore come as a surprise to people who are conversant with activities of Borno citizens, that thirteen of them merited the National Honours, conffered on distinguished Nigerians by the President Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari.
Coming in one fell swoop, upon leaders of a citizenry that is psychologically and physically traumatized by insurgency and it’s attendant ills, it will be right to surmise, that Borno has indeed never had it so good.
While others are lamenting over their non recognition, Borno citizens have since been celebrating and seem to have agreed to work together and to push more for even greater recognition and awards in their individual endeavours.
I have followed events, both social and political involving the people of Borno, but I have never come close to witnessing an assemblage of the elites of Borno at a single outing, as I did at the dinner organized for thirteen recipients of the National Honours from Borno State.
The main occasion might have been the conferment of the Honours, but every witness at that dinner, could testify that, it was the climax and indeed moment of glory: given the opportunity it accorded long time friends and foes to unite for the state.
Even critics of the state Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum may tend to agree that, it was one of his master strokes at rebuilding confidence amongst citizens and engendering a sense of solidarity with each other, that he out together the dinner.
It was a roll all of who is who, from Borno, drawn from different socio-cultural and religious backgrounds, with varried senses of politics and from diverse fields of endeavour.
How Governor Zulum galvanized his citizens for that dinner, at which everybody eschewed the hitherto frosty political and social relationships shall remain a reference in leadership lessons for a very long time.
People who converged on the AClass event center, venue of the dinner, could not conceal their excitements as the events unfold, and as speakers mount the podium, preaching messages of peace, unity, solidarity, hard work and development.
Somebody remarked to me that, anybody who failed to attend the dinner, for whatever reasons will take long to forgive himself or herself, as everyone else had the previlege to reunite with old friends, make up with foes and formed new allies. Everybody took away something positive, that may shape or reshape relationships amongst citizens in the future.
Long before Governor Zulum came up to speak, there appeared an unspoken bond, already formed, to the effect that: rather than petty jealousy that bog the hearts of those less fortunate to be so honored, everyone was out to celebrate the awardees.
And when the Governor came up, he literally summarized what everybody had to say: except of course pouring encomiums over himself.
To him, the dinner was a symbolic appreciation of Borno citizens for the live and support they gave him, culminating into the award.
But more importantly, to draw Borno citizens nearer eachother, irrespective of their diversities, in an effort to mobilize support for the rebuilding efforts.
Ostenssibly excited Zulum dedicated the National Honours to his citizens, even as he re-echoed his now famous cliche that, he is spurred the more and if paying the supreme prize is what wil be required to restore the peace and glory of Borno, he is always ready to pay.
Zulum may not be a good orator, but he is always passionate about his commitment to healing the wounds and making history.
Like the proverbial lizard that falls from the top of an iroko tree, Zulum has every cause to praise himself, even if others fail to.
That for the first time in the history of leadership in Borno, thirteen of her citizens could be so honoured, during his time, the gathering at the dinner was a clear message to him, that everybody is united behind him and they are not done with his services yet.
It may be needless, restating what others said at the dinner, but suffice it that, the unwritten theme seems to be, “working together and attracting glory in the face of challenges”.
Untill I left the venue of the dinner, I was still pestering the Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur, who spent a week in Abuja, trying to put the event together and establishing the necessary contacts; on what magic they used in drawing everybody together.
At the dinner, I met people, who have been habitually passive and unimpressed with such gatherings, and I have seen people who hitherto cannot sit together in the same room or even pray together in the same mosque; sitting together ,with a new sense of friendship.
If what I saw is the new Borno and what I heard is the new spirit, then, I can safely surmise that Borno’s day of glory is indeed here
News
EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
News
Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion
Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.
In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.
According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.
“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.
The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.
“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.
Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.
News
Ukhomunyio Community Seeks Edo Government Intervention Over Insecurity
A group of concerned stakeholders in Ukhomunyio Community, Okpella, Edo State, has called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area following recent security concerns and incidents of violence.
In a statement jointly signed by community stakeholders, the group said that the once-peaceful Ukhomunyio Community had in recent weeks experienced growing tension and insecurity.
The statement was jointly signed by Sam S. O. Afemikhe, Roland Ediawe, Dr Henry Idogun, Kasimu Sunday, Mark Adogah, Friday Ododeh, Omoreige Usman, Dr Victor Balogun, and Prince Haruna Ahmed.
The stakeholders urged the government to deploy more security personnel to the community and surrounding areas to help maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“We therefore call on the Edo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to immediately intervene by strengthening security presence within Ukhomunyio Community and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
They also called for a thorough investigation into recent incidents of violence and disturbances linked to the annual Olimi Festival.
According to the statement, the community recently recorded tragic incidents involving residents of Kalaba and Imioko villages, while some persons were reportedly abducted during the attacks and later reunited with their families.
The group described the incidents as unfortunate and contrary to the community’s peaceful traditions.
“We strongly condemn these acts, which are completely alien to the long-standing peaceful tradition of our community,” the statement added.
The stakeholders further expressed concern over violence that erupted during the recent Olimi Festival, saying some individuals allegedly used firearms during the celebration.
They said the violence resulted in casualties and injuries, with some affected persons currently receiving medical treatment.
“The Olimi Festival has historically been a symbol of unity, peace, celebration, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and Okpella in general,” the group stated.
According to the statement, the festival had historically symbolised unity, peace, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and the wider Okpella community.
The group also appealed to authorities to ensure that all investigations and security operations are carried out lawfully and fairly to avoid escalating tensions within the community.
Beyond strengthening security, the stakeholders called on authorities to prevent further violence and restore peace and confidence within the community.
They warned that continued insecurity could affect economic and social activities in the area, including operations linked to major industries.
As part of efforts to support investigations, the group announced a N1 million reward for credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying those behind the recent incidents.
Another N1 million reward was offered for information that could help authorities identify individuals connected to the violence during the Olimi Festival.
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