 |
| photo Source: Facebook New Media (At the State House of Assembly, the Borno State Ministry of Information and Internal Security defends the 2025 budget.) |
On December 17, 2024, the Borno State Ministry of Information and Internal Security presented its 2025 budget proposal to the Borno State House of Assembly (BOSHA) in Maiduguri. The meeting, held in the BOSHA complex, saw the presence of Prof. Usman Tar, the Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, along with his team of ministers. The Committee on Information and Internal Security, led by Hon. Bukar Modu, chaired the session, where various members of the House, including Hon. Yakubu Kimba of Biu State and Hon. Engr. Gambomi Marte FNSE of Konduga, were also in attendance.
The primary purpose of this meeting was for the Ministry to present and defend its budget for 2025. In his address, Hon. Prof. Usman Tar provided an overview of the Ministry's activities and highlighted the progress made from the previous year's budget. He took the opportunity to inform the Committee of the successes and accomplishments achieved in 2024 and to outline the proposed plans and goals for the coming year. This budget proposal is critical for the continued development and improvement of both the information and internal security sectors in Borno State, and the defense process allowed for a detailed discussion of the Ministry’s strategic objectives.
The Commissioner reported that, over the course of the year, the Ministry had made significant strides in several key areas. Notable among these was the restoration of the Government Printing Press, which plays a vital role in the state's ability to produce documents and materials efficiently. Furthermore, the Ministry had facilitated the acquisition of essential equipment for the security forces in Borno, helping to improve the security landscape across the state.
Additionally, the Ministry had been involved in assisting with the relocation of towns and villages, which has been a crucial task due to the ongoing security challenges in certain parts of Borno. The Ministry had also taken steps to enhance the capacity of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) by recruiting more members to support local security efforts. These initiatives reflect the Ministry’s commitment to improving safety, governance, and the overall well-being of the people of Borno.
Another achievement highlighted by the Commissioner was the impressive performance of the Borno State Cultural Troupe at the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), where Borno took home several prestigious awards. Among these accolades was the overall best award in embroidery, a testament to the cultural richness and artistic talent of the people of Borno. The Ministry’s strong involvement in cultural events like NAFEST and the organization of the 2024 Sir Ahmadu Bello Lecture in Maiduguri and the Kanem Borno Summit scheduled for February 2024 have been important in showcasing Borno’s rich cultural heritage and history on national and international platforms.
Moving forward, the Ministry outlined several ambitious projects for the 2025 budget. These included plans to build the Borno State Cultural Center, a project aimed at preserving and promoting the state’s culture and heritage. The Ministry also proposed the renovation of the outdoor theater, an important space for cultural events and performances, which would contribute to the state’s cultural vibrancy. Another priority was the construction of fire stations in all 27 local government areas (LGAs), aimed at improving emergency response capabilities across the state.
In addition to these cultural and infrastructural projects, the Ministry proposed the restoration of military barracks and the establishment of a joint central command and control center, designed to enhance coordination between various security forces. The creation of a Rapid Response Squad office complex was also on the list, aiming to improve response times and coordination in addressing emergencies and security challenges in the state.
The proposed budget for 2025 also includes plans to build museums and historical sites, which would serve as centers of learning and tourism, helping to preserve Borno’s history for future generations. Additionally, the proposal includes funding for the expansion and modernization of the Borno Radio and Television (BRTV) Station, which is critical for ensuring that accurate information is disseminated to the public and that Borno’s voice is heard across the country.
The Committee on Information and Internal Security, under the leadership of Hon. Bukar Modu, expressed its full support for the Ministry’s proposed budget and initiatives. Members of the Committee commended the Ministry for its accomplishments over the past year, recognizing the significant impact the Ministry’s work has had on improving both security and cultural preservation in the state. Hon. Modu and other Committee members pledged to do everything within their power to ensure that the proposed budget is approved and that the Ministry receives the necessary resources to implement its plans and projects in 2025.
In addition to the Commissioner, the meeting also saw the participation of other key figures from the Ministry, including the Permanent Secretary Alhaji Mustapha FCNA, Director of Administration and Supply Babagana Mustapha, Director of Finance Buba Jarmai, and various leaders of the Ministry’s parastatals. Their presence demonstrated the Ministry’s commitment to transparency and collaboration with the state government in the budgeting process.
The 2025 budget defense represents an important step in the continued growth and development of Borno State. It highlights the state’s commitment to improving its internal security infrastructure, preserving its rich cultural heritage, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The proposed initiatives, if approved, will play a vital role in supporting Governor Babagana Zulum’s vision of "Building Borno Back and Better."
The projects outlined in the Ministry's budget reflect a holistic approach to governance, combining security, culture, and infrastructure development in a way that aims to create a more stable and prosperous future for the people of Borno. The focus on rebuilding and improving critical services like emergency response and security infrastructure underscores the state's dedication to providing a safe environment for its citizens, while the emphasis on cultural development and historical preservation highlights the importance of identity and heritage in the state's long-term growth.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Information and Internal Security’s defense of the 2025 budget was a pivotal moment in Borno’s continued progress. The proposal reflects a strong commitment to the people of Borno, aiming to create a safer, more culturally enriched, and more resilient state. As the budget moves through the approval process, it is clear that the government of Borno, under the leadership of Governor Zulum, is determined to ensure that the state continues on its path toward recovery and prosperity. With the support of the Borno State House of Assembly and all stakeholders, these ambitious plans can become a reality, further strengthening the foundation for Borno’s bright future.
Post a Comment