By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

KADUNA — The Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressives Union (BEPU) has hailed the return of peace and renewed federal attention to the region, describing recent developments as a “new dawn” for a community once gripped by insecurity and economic paralysis.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Isah Muhammad, BEPU expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Kaduna State Government for their roles in restoring stability and kick-starting critical infrastructure projects. The Union celebrated the fact that Birnin Gwari has recorded no killings or abductions since November 2024, calling it “unprecedented in modern history.”

“The scourge of insecurity has been curtailed by no less than 95%, and farmers in their thousands have returned to their fields,” the statement read.

BEPU attributed the remarkable turnaround to a joint peace accord facilitated by the Kaduna State Government and supported by the Federal Government, traditional rulers, and community leaders. With peace gradually taking root, long-abandoned highways are now bustling with activity, and the region’s agricultural and livestock economies are making a strong comeback.

During a recent visit to Kaduna State, President Tinubu fulfilled a major campaign promise by announcing the Federal Executive Council’s approval for the reconstruction of three vital roads:

Kaduna–Birnin Gwari (126 km)

Birnin Gwari–Funtua (178 km)

Birnin Gwari–Tegina–Mokwa corridor

“This is, without doubt, the fulfilment of a promise and a direct outcome of the return of peace,” BEPU stated.

The Union also praised Governor Uba Sani for his peacebuilding initiatives and ongoing infrastructure projects, including plans for a modern livestock market and the construction of the Birnin Gwari–Randagi road.

Further commendation was extended to National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Senator Ibrahim Buba, and the Emir of Birnin Gwari, Malam Zubairu Jibril Maigwari II, for their roles in stabilizing the area.

Looking to the future, BEPU urged the Federal Government to establish a Federal University of Minerals and Forest Resources in Birnin Gwari, citing the area’s abundant gold deposits and forest biodiversity. The Union also called for the relocation of the Federal College of Education and Federal College of Forestry and Mechanisation from Kaduna to Birnin Gwari to address the region’s educational deficits.

On security, BEPU advocated for sustained non-kinetic peace strategies in neighboring volatile states including Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Niger. It condemned ongoing violence in Benue State and flood disasters in Mokwa, Niger State, urging the government to provide urgent humanitarian relief.

Taking a strong environmental stance, BEPU decried illegal logging, poaching, and unregulated mining in Kamuku National Park, calling on authorities to take decisive action against violators and complicit officials.

The Union concluded by urging Senator Lawal Adamu Usman, representing Kaduna Central, to accelerate educational reforms in the area, including the establishment of a JAMB center and support for legislation creating a federal university.

“Birnin Gwari is rising again. We remain committed to ensuring peace, prosperity, and progress for our people,” the Union affirmed.