10 years after Boko Haram declared Gwoza caliphate, town hosts first youth summit
GWOZA, Nigeria — The Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State hosted its inaugural youth summit over the weekend, marking a significant milestone ten years after Boko Haram insurgents proclaimed the town a caliphate.
The summit took place at the Federal College of Education in Gwoza, a town that has gradually returned to stability following its recapture by troops of the Joint Task Force, Northeast, under Operation Hadin Kai. The violent conflict had caused many residents to abandon their homes, leading to the abandonment of numerous communities.
During the opening ceremony, Emir of Gwoza, His Royal Highness Mohammed Idris Timta, praised the organizers, led by Dr. Buba Musa Tunga, for their efforts in uniting young people from the area. He emphasized the importance of the summit as a foundation for ongoing dialogue aimed at fostering peace and development.
“This summit should be viewed as the beginning of a sustained process of engagement among Gwoza youths to promote sustainable peace and development,” the Emir stated.
To ensure the longevity of the forum’s objectives, the Emir appointed Mohammed Adamu Bams as caretaker chairman, along with two executive members, while permanent leaders are elected. He also instructed the organizers to prepare a detailed communiqué to steer the forum’s activities moving forward.
The summit drew a diverse crowd of youths, traditional leaders, politicians, and professionals from Gwoza’s 13 ethnic communities, as well as participants from other regions of Nigeria and neighboring countries.
Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, acknowledged the contributions of President Bola Tinubu, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, and security forces in restoring peace to the region. He noted that progress is evident in the construction of new homes for thousands of residents returning after being displaced by the violence.
Ndume highlighted the need for collaboration among Gwoza’s diverse communities to facilitate the rebuilding process. “The central objective of this summit is to unify all citizens of Gwoza, irrespective of ethnic, religious, political, or geographical differences,” he said. He encouraged the youth to set aside their differences and collaborate for community development.
Hon. Ahmed Usman Jaha, representing the Damboa/Chibok/Gwoza Federal Constituency, also addressed the youth. He stressed that responsible leadership necessitates discipline, continuous learning, and active involvement in community initiatives. Jaha called on the youths to start contributing to society now, rather than waiting for future leadership opportunities.
