Muhammad Sabiu, Author at Tribune Online

The leadership of the Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressives Union (BEPU) in Kaduna State has lauded the initiative of the state and federal governments towards the recent peace accord achieved in the emirate. This was even as it called on the government to extend a similar gesture to other states like Zamfara, Niger, Sokoto, and Katsina to stabilise the security challenges confronting the North West. It said, "After over two decades of turmoil, this long-sought reconciliation marks a significant turning point for the community. This successful reconciliation has brought unprecedented peace to the area." BEPU, in a statement made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Wednesday and signed by its chairman, Dr Isah Muhammad Galadima, noted the steadfast support of the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose commitment to addressing security challenges has been instrumental in achieving this milestone. "BEPU appeals to the Federal Government to expand this peace initiative to all states affected by banditry. Extending the peace accord to regions such as Niger, Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto States, which continue to face severe security challenges, is essential. "Such an extension would consolidate the gains made in Kaduna State and foster broader national reconciliation, ensuring long-term peace across Nigeria." In light of the suffering endured by the people of Birnin Gwari due to prolonged insecurity, BEPU calls on both the Federal and Kaduna State Governments to expedite developmental and infrastructural restoration. It noted that the community has suffered significantly, and immediate action is required to rebuild and rehabilitate the area. Federal services that were previously withdrawn must be restored without delay, including the redeployment of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, which will support educational and community development. BEPU also urges the Federal Government to award contracts for the rehabilitation of critical highways connecting Birnin Gwari to other parts of Nigeria. The Birnin Gwari to Kaduna highway, spanning 120 kilometres, is vital for linking Birnin Gwari with the Northwest and Northeast. "The 160-kilometre Birnin Gwari to Funtua highway is crucial for connecting the area to Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto States. Additionally, the 100-kilometre Birnin Gwari to Tegina highway must be rehabilitated to provide a more direct route to Southern Nigeria. "These roads are essential for facilitating trade, enhancing mobility, and supporting the region's economic recovery. "The restoration of communication networks is equally urgent. BEPU calls on mobile service providers MTN and Airtel to reinstate network services, which have been absent for five years. "Reliable communication is critical for security, economic activities, and social connectivity. Similarly, BEPU appeals to financial institutions such as Ecobank and FirstBank to resume operations in Birnin Gwari, as their absence for the past decade has hindered financial services and economic growth in the region." READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE