By Inusa Ndahi, Maiduguri
DIRECTOR-General of the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, Dr. Abubakar Gambo Umar has said that the annual lecture billed to take place in Maiduguri, the Borno state capital on Saturday 27th January, 2024 is dedicated to the memory of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto.
This was disclosed on Thursday at a press briefing which took place at the Musa Usman Secretariat, Maiduguri
According to him, Sir Bello was also the Premier of the defunct Northern region, and a leader in Nigeria’s history.
The memorial lecture themed: “Creating pathways for peace: tackling banditry and insurgency through good governance for sustainable development,” was aimed at promoting inclusivity to ensure that different states within the region have the opportunity to host and partake in the annual lecture in order to bring lasting peace in the region and the country as a whole.
Umar, who doubles, as the Co-Chairman Joint Organising Committee of the memorial lecture, disclosed that; “The 10th Sir Ahmadu Bello memorial lecture is slated for Saturday, in Maiduguri, Borno state,” stating that the annual event seeks to promote intellectual discourse and reflection on critical issues affecting the region and the country at large.
Besides, he added: “It serves as a veritable platform to honour the legacy of leadership and good governance of Sir Bello.
He pointed out that during the period under review, the Foundation has enrolled about 600 Youths into scholarship programmes across various institutions of higher learning, with about 300 vulnerable ones already graduated and now beneficiaries of the scheme.
“The Saturday lecture will continue to serve as a platform for constructive dialogue and meaningful engagement on issues of critical importance in the 19 northern states.
“The platform is also to address contemporary challenges facing the region and the entire nation,” he said.
He added that the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima will be the special Guest of Honour, while the Chairman of Northern Governors’ Forum (NGF), Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe state, will serve as the event’s chairman.
According to him, Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno state will be the chief host of the memorial lecture in Maiduguri.
He said the highlights of the memorial lecture included the presentation of lifetime achievement awards to deserving personalities.
“The awards are to recognize and honour individuals who have contributed to the development and well-being of the country in public service,” as well as honesty, selflessness and sacrifice in private lives.
