Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State | 21st June 2025 —
After years of insecurity and economic paralysis, the people of Birnin Gwari Emirate are witnessing a historic transformation. In a powerful statement issued today by the Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressives Union (BEPU), Chairman Dr. Isah Muhammad declared a “95% reduction in banditry,” ushering in what he called “a renewed dawn”for the region.
From Insecurity to Stability: A Region Reclaimed
For over a decade, Birnin Gwari suffered from rampant killings, mass abductions, and a collapse of farming and livestock trade—pillars of the local economy. However, since November 2024, not a single incident of kidnapping or killing has been recorded. Thousands of farmers have returned to their fields, markets are booming, and previously deserted federal highways are now active and secure.
This peace was achieved through a bold peace accord initiated by the Kaduna State Government, with the Federal Government’s backing and the tireless commitment of local leaders.
President Tinubu Delivers on Promise: 3 Major Roads Approved
During his official visit to Kaduna on 19th June 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced a landmark development: the Federal Executive Council has approved reconstruction of three key highways:
- Kaduna – Birnin Gwari (126 km)
- Birnin Gwari – Funtua (178 km)
- Birnin Gwari – Tegina – Mokwa
These roads are vital trade and mobility lifelines connecting Kaduna to the Northeast, Northcentral, and Southern Nigeria. The move is widely seen as a fulfillment of President Tinubu’s campaign promise made during his historic visit to Birnin Gwari.
A Boost from Kaduna State: Livestock Market, Infrastructure
Governor Malam Uba Sani was praised for his commitment to rebuilding Birnin Gwari, including plans for a modern livestock market and abattoir and attention to the Birnin Gwari–Randagi road. BEPU called on contractors to ensure high construction standards.
Strategic Proposals for Long-Term Growth
BEPU urged the Federal Government to:
- Establish a Federal University of Minerals and Forest Resources in Birnin Gwari, citing its rich deposits and fertile lands.
- Transfer two federal institutions — the Federal College of Education and the Federal College of Forestry and Mechanisation — from Kaduna to Birnin Gwari to boost educational access and peacebuilding.
- Facilitate a JAMB/UTME Centre and support a Senate bill to create a full university in the area.
Call for Peace Across Nigeria
BEPU emphasized the need to expand non-kinetic peacebuilding strategies across other conflict-affected states, especially Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Niger. Condolences were extended to Benue State victims of violence and to flood victims in Mokwa, Niger State, with calls for immediate relief and long-term prevention plans.
Kamuku National Park: End Illegal Logging and Mining
BEPU condemned ongoing illegal activities within Kamuku National Park, home to endangered species and unique flora. The union praised the Ministry of Environment for its vigilance and called for stronger enforcement and prosecution of offenders, including insiders.
With renewed federal attention, improved security, and bold development plans, Birnin Gwari is emerging from years of hardship into a season of peace, growth, and promise. BEPU reaffirmed its commitment to working with government at all levels to ensure peace, prosperity, and progress endure in the region.
Signed:
Dr. Isah Muhammad
Chairman, Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressives Union (BEPU)
