A group known as Bura Concerned Citizens Initiative (BCCI) has called on the Constitution Review Committee to consider the creation of Savannah state from the current Borno state saying it will address the age-long issue of marginalisation of the people and boost development of the area.
This was contained in a letter jointly signed by Chairman of BCCI, Jibrin Useni Ndahi, and Secretary, Daniel Machar Esq, addressed to the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitution Review and the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau.
The group said its position aligns with the ongoing “national discourse on restructuring and addressing regional disparities, with the ultimate aim of promoting socio-economic development, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing administrative effectiveness across the country.”
The BCCI said Southern Borno is grappling with inequitable lack of access to government services, administrative bottlenecks due to vast and difficult terrain, security vulnerabilities attributed to distance and poor infrastructure.
According to the group, Savannah state creation would decentralise administrative responsibilities and bring government closer to the people, thereby improving governance and public service delivery.
“The area is predominantly inhabited by communities with deep-rooted historical and traditional ties. Creating a state that reflects and preserves these identities will promote cultural pride, political inclusion, and peace, boost the economic potential, ensure equitable access to resources and social infrastructure,” it stated.
The BCCI thus urged the National Assembly Committee on Constitutional Review and State Creation to give due and favorable consideration to their legitimate demand as part of the broader constitutional and national restructuring efforts.”