Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno state; has inaugurated a 13-member State’s boundary committee to strengthen bilateral relations and security. According to him, there is need to avoid possible tension before it escalates into communal any conflict in communities. While inaugurating committee on Wednesday at Government House, Maiduguri, he said: “This committee could not have come at a better time than now. “The state government in its quest to promote peace and security; is very much aware of need to avoid possible tension before it escalates into communal conflicts.” He said that inter or intra state collaboration; will reduce communal clashes; because of land issues to strengthen bilateral relationship with neighbouring countries. He said the neighbouring countries that share border areas with Borno state; include Cameroun, Chad, Niger. While speaking on committee’s inauguration, Zulum said: “This is a proactive arrangement to avoid foreseen and unforeseen conflicts. “It will also promote peaceful coexistence among our communities and neighbouring countries earlier listed.” He noted that boundary issues have been a subject of global concern; that prompted many countries, including Nigeria to establish such committees or institutions in line with global peace initiatives. On terms of reference of committee, he disclosed that; “You’re to handle boundary matters, including international boundary with Chad, Cameroon and Niger Republic. “The committee members are also to handle inter states boundary with Adamawa, Yobe and Gombe, including inter local government boundary within the 27 Local Government Areas of state. “You’re therefore urged to commence work immediately.” He added that the committee is to handle bilateral cooperation with Cameroon, Chad, and Niger. The committee, is being headed by the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Umar Kadafur with the Ministerial Secretary of Inter-Governmental Affairs and Special Duties, will serve as secretary. Other members of committee; include permanent secretaries for the ministries of inter-governmental affairs and special duties, local government and emirate affairs. “The Executive Secretary, Borno State Geographic Information Service (BOGIS), Surveyor General of BOGIS and representatives of General Officer Commanding, 7 Division, Nigerian Army, Commissioner of Police, Department of State Security Services (DSS), Customs and Immigration Services are committee members.” said Zulum.
