From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
Yobe State Governor, Hon. (Dr.) Mai Mala Buni, on Thursday joined dignitaries from across Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon at the Kanem Borno Cultural Summit, a gathering aimed at reviving the rich historical civilization and cultural heritage of the ancient Kanem Borno Empire.
In a statement by the Director General of Press and Media Affairs to the Governor, Mamman Mohammad, Governor Buni expressed delight at witnessing what he described as the “reawakening of a great African civilization” and the rebirth of traditions that once defined one of the continent’s largest and longest-standing empires.
According to him, the summit not only revives the traditions and culture of the people but also serves as “a bridge between yesterday and today — between the older and younger generations — for peace and stability.”
“As the theme of this celebration, ‘Harnessing Culture for Peace and Regional Stability,’ suggests, we have a great opportunity in events such as this to use our cultural heritage for value reorientation, self-development, and societal growth,” the governor said.
Governor Buni emphasized that the occasion serves as a reminder of the moral duties of leadership, the expectations from citizens, the responsibilities of parents, and the discipline expected from youths who are being prepared for future leadership.
He highlighted the historical significance of Kanem Borno as a center of Islamic learning and Quranic memorization, as well as a hub of trade and agriculture in West Africa.
“The teachings of Islam and virtues of our culture preach peace and peaceful coexistence. Therefore, the people of Kanem Borno should be role models of peace,” he said.
The governor, however, lamented the gradual erosion of communal values that once defined the region.
“We have lost the sense of brotherhood and community spirit we were known for. There was a time when any father, regardless of his status, was a father to all, with moral authority over every child,” Buni noted.
He also condemned the growing trend of religious leaders engaging in public disputes on social media, describing it as “sad, unfortunate, and counterproductive,” warning that such actions have the potential to create more divisions than unity.
Governor Buni called on stakeholders to harness the economic potential embedded in the region’s cultural heritage for growth and stability.
“We should explore and promote our famous horse racing and dubar, our beautifully crafted Zannah Bukar caps, and our rich traditional cuisines to boost tourism, create jobs, and drive sustainable peace and economic development,” he stated.
The summit brought together traditional rulers, scholars, cultural enthusiasts, and government officials committed to preserving and promoting the legacy of the Kanem Borno Empire as a foundation for regional peace and unity.
