THE Borno chapter of Provision Store Owners Association on Thursday in Maiduguri commended the Nigerian Armed Forces over the success recorded in the counter-insurgency campaign in the north-east.

Alhaji Mustapha Kokori, Vice Chairman of the association, made the commendation at the presentation of awards to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai and Maj.-Gen. Rogers Nicholas, the Theatre Commande in charge of the counter-insurgency operation.

Kokori said that traders in the state appreciated the contributions of the military under the stewardship of Buratai in  restoring peace to the northeast.

“Buratai is a dedicated soldier with high sense of magnanimity; commitment, zeal, humility and hard work. These characteristics contributed in no small measure to the successful defeat of Boko-Haram insurgents.

“Most communities in Borno are returning home; many Internally Displaced Persons’ (IDPs) camps have been closed and major highways such as Maiduguri to Damboa to Biu; Maiduguri to Dikwa to Gamboru-Ngala and Maiduguri to Bama to Banki to Gwoza have been reopened.

“The reopening of the roads and relative atmosphere of peace have tremendously restored the lost glory of Borno as a centre of international commerce,” he said.

Kokori also commended the military authorities over the proposed establishment of a military university in Biu and host of schools established  in various communities in the state.

He said that the improved military-civil relations would fast-track sustainable social and economic development of the state.

The vice chairman pledged support to the military to facilitate successful implementation of the counter-insurgency campaign.

In his speech Buratai, represented by Maj.-Gen. Rogers Nicholas, reiterated the commitment of the military in  restoring peace and protecting the nation’s territorial integrity.

“It is good a gesture to appreciate and recognize people who contributed and make sacrifices to protect lives and property, as well as work towards peace building for the betterment of all,” he added. (NAN)

– Apr. 19, 2018 @ 18:57 GMT

AE