Borno: Facing the Boko Haram challenge

In his inaugural address to the people of Borno State on May 29, 2011, Governor Shettima outlined very ambitious objectives of his administration which include amongst other things, enthroning equity, justice and fair play in the conduct of government business; empowering all segments of the society as a catalyst for poverty alleviation, and  evolving a […]

In his inaugural address to the people of Borno State on May 29, 2011, Governor Shettima outlined very ambitious objectives of his administration which include amongst other things, enthroning equity, justice and fair play in the conduct of government business; empowering all segments of the society as a catalyst for poverty alleviation, and  evolving a clear socio-cultural philosophy, coherent principles and ethics for stabilization, good governance, transparency, accountability and the efficient management of resources. In promising to refocus the collective energy of his people towards self actualization within the context of self help and self sustenance, the governor also plans a rapid development of basic infrastructure in both urban and rural areas.

Since taking over the mantle of leadership, Shettima has demonstrated that these objectives are his articles of faith as he strives daily to reawaken in the people the capacity to dream and envision, to have confidence in themselves and to embrace each other as brothers irrespective of tribe, religion, creed or class. At his inaugural meeting with newly sworn in commissioners, he did not fail to spell out the challenges before the cabinet. Even as many believe that he has chosen the best crop to work with him, he insists that those who accept to serve with him must be ready to abide by the terms of his covenant with the people, which are to be selfless and dedicated, and to live above board.

Bearing in mind Borno’s chequred socio-economic and political experiences, expectations from the people are very high and the administration is not unaware of that. But good as the team may appear, determined and dedicated as it may want to be, certain people appear poised to frustrate efforts at implementing the good programmes, by capitalizing on the prevailing circumstances Borno finds herself in to cause mischief. While Shettima and his team prefers peaceful approach in resolving all matters, including political differences, it should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness by political opponents to try to undermine government. The administration is equal to the task, and as a government it has the capacity to respond to all situations that may arise from all situations. We are honest about our offer to dialogue with the real Yusuffiya group, just as we are prepared to expose those who use the name of the group to cause mischief for sheer political reasons.

In the face of the security challenges bedeviling Borno State, the new team appears poised to make the difference. We believe that the current situation is a temporary eclipse that will soon give way to the bright Borno State star, known to shine brightly always. The first task as it is is to rebuild the confidence of our brothers who felt aggrieved with past government policies. The issue of dialogue with members of the Jammatul Sunnah Lidah Awati Wal Jihad may not appear too fashionable to some people, but we believe that it remains the catharsis. We are desperate for peace to return so that we can continue with the implementation of our programmes in earnest. Peace is a sine qua non to development and we are not prepared to compromise it. Already we can see light at the end of the tunnel. Nigerians now know better those to blame for the Boko Haram insurrection. The recent visit to Borno by the leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum, and the attendant intervention by other prominent elders have given us hopes that very soon, Borno shall return to take its proper place as the citadel of peace.

When our aggrieved brothers would have laid down their arms, and embraced dialogue, when all those who fled the state would have returned to their duty posts, when normal business activities resume, the next level is to build bridges of friendship with people who were passive, reluctant, uncooperative or even hostile to the new administration. It our firm belief, that, any citizen who has the potentials to make meaningful contribution towards the development of Borno State will be given the opportunity to manifest such potentials. We are aware that the cost of the crisis that engulfed Borno State has drawn her back more than twenty years in terms of development; making up for the loss is a tough task in which every citizen must contribute.

The path to building the new Borno state may be littered with diverse challenges, the task may appear taller than the tallest man in the state, but the spirit is formidable. The road to nirvana may seem so long, but we are confident we shall get there. Already, the indicators point to a Borno, rising from the ashes of the social dislocation occasioned by the Boko Haram insurrection to be a model for many states in terms of development. I have a dream that, those who despise us for whatever reason(s) will someday crave for our friendship. The challenges presented by the present situation should serve as the impetus that will drive us to the Promised Land.

Bwala is the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Information and Culture in Borno State