Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni on Saturday unveiled a book review titled: “Taking A Stand Against Insurgency, Terrorism and Banditry in Nigeria, Admonition to Nigerian Youths”, which was authored by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa.
The occasion took place at Mohammed Indimi International Conference Hall, University of Maiduguri in collaboration with Kaltum Foundation For Peace (KFFP), Network of Civil Society Organizations (NETCSOB) and Borno State Youths Parliament among others as organisers.
Governor Buni, the book reviewer, was represented by the Special Adviser on Security Matters to Governor, Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam.
He commended the Nigerian military under the good leadership of General Chris Gwabin Musa as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), who have been very successful in the fight against terrorism,I insurgency and other criminalities in the country.
He donated the sum of N5 million to the purchase of 50 copies of the book,.
Buni said, “the Book which has 19 chapters, would go along way in providing the roots cause of insurgency and how Nigerian Youths will read and comprehend the concept of terrorism, and help to detect terrorist attacks in their communities such as unusual behaviour, abandoned packages, suspicious vehicles, threatening language and gathering of individuals. ”
“The Author, who is also the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Chris Musa gave suggestions on the promotion of inclusive governance, empowerment to address unemployment, problem of poverty in the society,….. and maintenance of essential family values such as love, resilience , tolerance, respect and empathy, as well as support and encouragement of development at the communities and grassroot”.
In her welcome address, the Chief Executive Officer of Kalthum Foundation for Peace, Ummukalthum Mohammed Yakubu appreciated the CDS and his troops, as well.as other stakeholders for their unwavering efforts in the fight against Boko Haram and other terrorism in the country.
She also appreciated students from primary, secondary and tertiary institutions and other youth groups and organizations for honouring the invitation which would avail them the opportunity to deliberate on how best to achieve lasting peace and development in the region.
Also, the Chairman of the occasion, who is the Speaker, Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan, represented by member representing Marte state constituency, Hon. Engr. Gambomi Marte, urged participants to use the knowledge gained so as to spread the information on counter Insurgency operations in the region.
He assured legislative support to all security agencies and the government to ensure peace and progress of the people.
In his remarks, CDS Musa said, he was humbled to know that the book he launched during his tenure as Theatre Commander, “Taking Stand Against Insurgency, Terrorism and Banditry: Admonition to Nigerian Youth,” will be reviewed at the occasion.
Musa extended his heartfelt gratitude to the organisers, the Kaltum Foundation for Peace, the Network of Civil Society Organisations, and the Borno State Youth Parliament, for their foresight in creating this timely and vital forum.
“I particularly appreciate the inclusion of topics that awaken students to their crucial role as security stakeholders, just as in earlier times when student voices and aspirations helped shape government policies.
“To the students from Borno and Yobe States gathered here, I commend your presence, interest and commitment to the theme: ‘Countering Violent Extremism: The Role of Educational Institutions and Students’.
“I want to extend my special thanks to our Special Guest of Honour for gracing this occasion with his esteemed presence. I also appreciate the other distinguished guests, the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, traditional leaders and clergymen who have tirelessly mentored and provided spiritual guidance to the populace. Your continued support is indispensable in fostering peace in this region.
“This sensitization programme could not have come at a better time. At its core, it aims to raise awareness and stimulate positive action at the grassroots, to embrace peace as a way of life and to counter radicalisation through education, dialogue and civic responsibility. It is particularly important now to clarify right from wrong, especially as our adversaries exploit vulnerabilities such as illiteracy, poverty and the fault lines of ethnicity and religion.
“To our SAVE 1 and 2 teams, I charge you to be ambassadors of peace. Walk the talk. Be the examples you seek in others. Lead by integrity, commitment and courage.
” Raise more disciples, champions of peace, unity and truth. Let this be the beginning of a new movement, a movement of students and youths determined to reclaim their communities from violence and uphold values that reflect our collective dignity as Nigerians”, Musa said.
Earlier, an Abuja based philanthropist, Dr. Paul Odilli, who accompanied the CDS and the Theatre Commander North East ‘ CJTF, Operation Hadin Kai’ Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar for a sympathy visit to the wounded in action soldiers receiving treatment at Maimalari Military Hospital and Medical Services, announced his personal donation of medical equipments worth N500,million and drugs worth billions of naira, in addition to provision of 20 sets of 3-bedroom bungalow flats at choice location in Nigeria to each of the critically wounded in action soldiers at 44 military hospital in Kaduna and other medical institutions this year by the philanthropist on routine basis every year.
Read more on National Accord Newspaper
