Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, last week, formally presented the staff of office to the newly appointed Shehu of Bama, (Dr) Umar Kyari Umar El-Kanemi, in a grand ceremony held at the township stadium in Bama.
The appointment of the 2nd Shehu of Bama follows the passing of his father, Alhaji (Dr.) Shehu Kyari Ibn Ibrahim El-Kanemi, who ruled for three decades.
In his address, Governor Zulum congratulated the new monarch, expressing confidence in his ability to provide purposeful leadership for the emirate.
“We have no doubt that with your pedigree and experience as a leader, you will offer inspired leadership for Bama Emirate,” Zulum said.
Call for Unity and Development
The governor urged the Shehu to foster unity among the people, ensure inclusivity in governance, and remain open to contributions from various stakeholders. He acknowledged the critical role traditional rulers play in maintaining peace and social cohesion.
“Your contributions have been most appreciable and rewarding in mobilizing citizens to complement government efforts, especially in self-help initiatives. Members of the community have immensely contributed to socio-economic and political regeneration, peace, and stability,” he noted.
Zulum reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of the people, aligning with the state’s 25-year Development Framework and 10-year Strategic Transformation Plan.
Resettlement Plans and Infrastructure Development
The governor announced plans to close the Bama Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp and resettle displaced persons from Daral Jamal, Tarmua, Mayanti, Bula Yobe, Abbaram, Goniri, and Kumshe by the end of the year.
He also disclosed the release of funds for the restoration of electricity in Bama and assured that Gwoza town would be electrified as well.
However, Governor Zulum paid tribute to the late Shehu of Bama, recognizing his contributions in education, healthcare, peace-building, and mass mobilization. He expressed optimism that his successor would build on the foundation laid by his father.
He also commended Vice President Kashim Shettima for initiating the reconstruction of Bama town during his tenure as governor.
Dignitaries present at the ceremony included the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, Shehu of Borno, and traditional rulers from Nigeria, Chad, and Cameroon. Others in attendance were former Borno State Governor, Alhaji Ali Modu Sheriff; former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai; members of the National Assembly, and top government officials.
New monarch Pledges Commitment
In his acceptance speech, the Shehu of Bama, (Dr) Umar Kyari Umar El-Kanemi, pledged to promote peace and support government initiatives aimed at sustainable development. He lauded the state government for its efforts in resettling displaced persons and providing agricultural support to farming communities.
As part of his engagements, Governor Zulum also commissioned a newly constructed government lodge in Konduga Local Government Area.
