In a major stride toward restoring normalcy and boosting economic activity, Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has announced the reopening of two key markets previously shut down due to escalating insecurity. The development marks a turning point in the state’s ongoing efforts to reclaim peace and revitalize trade across affected communities.
The announcement was made on Tuesday after a high-level security council meeting convened to assess the current security landscape. Governor Buni, who was represented by his Deputy, Idi Barde Gubana, presided over the session, which was hailed as a significant step in consolidating the state’s relative stability.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Security Matters, Brigadier General Dahiru AbdulSalam (retd.), confirmed that the Buni Yadi Weekly Market and Kukurate Market have been given the green light to resume operations.
> “The reopening of these markets follows a noticeable and commendable improvement in the security situation,” AbdulSalam said. “It’s a clear signal that our security architecture is yielding results.”
As part of broader peace-building efforts, the government has also intensified its engagement with farmers and herders, leading to what AbdulSalam described as a “marked improvement” in inter-community relations. In a bid to prevent recurring conflicts, a specialized task force has been constituted to clearly map and redefine cattle routes across the state.
> “This task force will conduct a tour of all 17 local government areas to reopen and secure designated cattle routes. This initiative is crucial in averting farmer-herder clashes and promoting peaceful coexistence,” he added.
The retired military officer emphasized that security personnel must remain vigilant and proactive in consolidating the gains made so far. He commended the various security agencies for their relentless efforts and urged them not to relent until Yobe is entirely free from criminal elements.
In a related development, the state government is stepping up its campaign against the menace of drug trafficking and abuse—a rising concern across the Northeast. AbdulSalam revealed that intelligence reports have led to the identification of major drug suppliers within and outside the state.
> “Efforts are underway to block all drug supply channels into Yobe. We are working with relevant authorities to dismantle these dangerous networks,” he stated.
To support rehabilitation and reintegration, the government has approved the establishment of three new drug rehabilitation centres in Damaturu, Potiskum, and Gashua. These centres will cater to both users and dealers who voluntarily submit or are apprehended, offering them a path toward recovery and reintegration into society.
As security steadily returns to Yobe State, the government’s multi-sectoral approach—blending economic reopening, peace-building, and social interventions—signals a new dawn of hope for residents long weighed down by insurgency and insecurity.
PIONEER NEWS 