Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, the Governor of Borno, has reopened Banki International Market in Banki Town, Bama Local Government Area of the state.
Banki is a border town, located about 3 km from Nigeria – Cameroon border.
The market is described as a commercial hub in the region, bringing together commercialists from neighboring countries.
It was closed down some years ago due to increased activities of Boko Haram insurgents.
On Tuesday, the governor, along with a high-powered delegation from Cameroon, led by Mijin-Yawa Bakari, his counterpart of the Far Northern Region, reopened the market.
In his opening remarks, the governor welcomed the Cameroonian delegation and emphasized commitment to revitalizing commerce and sustaining border markets in Borno that are strategically located around international borders from the Federal Republic of Cameroon, Niger and Chad, respectively.
While calling on the Cameroonian government and the Far Northern region to promote trans-border trade, he mentioned that his government is rehabilitating 148 government-owned shops and constructing 740 privately-owned shops and 22 blocks of 450 market stores to restore livelihoods in conflict-affected areas.
‘Any individual or group hindering the objective of the federal government and the Regional Stabilization Facility in enhancing trans-border trade will be dealt with accordingly,’ the governor added.
In Banki, the governor similarly commissioned teachers’ quarters of Government Day Secondary School, Banki.
He also disclosed plans for Banki International Cattle Market with the support of neighboring countries and to offer study opportunities to Cameroonian students willing to study in Nigeria, especially those interested in studying English, Mathematics, and other courses.
In his response, Governor Mijinyawa Bakari thanked Governor Zulum and highlighted the positive impact of the market on the region.
He said the synergy between the two countries is aimed at economic wellbeing and peaceful coexistence of their countrymen.
Similarly speaking, the Shehu of Bama, HRH Umar Ibn Shehu Kyari Ibrahim El-Kanemi expressed his delight over the reopening of the international market
He noted that the closure of the market has caused serious stresses on people, stressing that it used to be more than a place of trade but rather a melting pot where diverse cultures and ideas interact, fostering unity among people.
