Kadafur Lead govt officials to Menwara Festival 2024

…… Highlights its tremendous significance to cultural heritage

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor Professor Babagana Umara Zulum ably represented by the Deputy Governor of Borno State HE (Dr) Umar Usman Kadafur led government officials to celebrate the “Menwara Annual Cultural Festival”, hosted by the Shani Emirate Council.

The Deputy Governor while reading out his remarks said the gathering serves not only as a celebration of our rich cultural heritage but also as a reminder of the values that bind us together as a people, unity, respect and mutual understanding. The Menwara has grown over the years into an event of tremendous significance, bringing together individuals from all folks of life to celebrate the diversity and vibrancy of our traditions.

Dr Kadafur further added that “to everyone present, I encourage you to immerse yourselves fully in the celebration today. Let us take pride in who we are and the remarkable culture that we share. Together, we will continue to grow, thrive, and ensure that the spirit of the Menwara Festivals lives on for generations to come.”

In an address, The emir of Shani Alhaji Muhammad Nasir Mai Lafiya, while tracing the centuries-long tradition opined that the cultural festival depicts characteristics and knowledge of people which includes their language, religion, social habits, music and arts.

“The aim of hosting this annual cultural event therefore, is to continue to instill our cultural heritage and awareness into our younger generation”, the emir remarked.

The emir also took time to formally commiserate with the government and people of Borno over the recent devastating flood in Maiduguri which resulted in significant loss of lives and widespread destruction of properties, praying Allah to grant the deceased and their families the fortitude to bear the irreparable lost .

In a welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Shani Hon Hassan Abdu Labaki, said Shani local government has witnessed significant progress engendered by the present of administration of Governor Zulum with tangible and laudable projects all over the council which includes Vocational Entrepreneurship Institute Shani, Government Day Secondary School Gasi, Government Day Secondary Bargu, health clinic Gasi, Langama secondary school Shani, Shani water gallery, supply and distribution, as well as Local Government computer ICT Center Shani, among other developmental initiatives.

“Your Excellency, on behalf of myself, my council and the entire people of Shani LG we are wishing you, your entourage and all our invited dignitaries a happy and memorable stay in Shani and safe journey back to your destination,” the chairman concluded.

In a vote of thanks, Hon. Musa Inuwa Kubo urged the people of Shani to redouble their efforts in irrigation farming and avoid indiscriminate sales of agricultural produce to avoid food insecurity, while thanking the state governor and his deputy for their unflinching support to the area.

In attendance were the Former Deputy Governor HE Hon Usman Mamman Durkwa, Traditional Rulers, Members House Assembly of Hawul, Shani , Biu, Bayo, Deputy Chief of Staff, Commissioner of Inter-Governmental affairs Hon Ibrahim Tukur Shani, Chairmen of some respective Local Government, Special advisers, Permanent Secretaries , Principal Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Mohammed Adamu Lawan, as well as Senior Special Assistant among others.

Kadafur Lead govt officials to Menwara Festival 2024

Nigeria Emerges New Africa Representative in International Ranger Federation

By: Michael Mike

The National Park Service (NPS), Assistant Conservator of Parks, Mohammed Dikko Bala has emerged the new regional representative for Africa.

He was elected in a recent election of new executives of International Ranger Federation (IRF) at the 10th World Ranger Congress (WRC) held in Hyeres, France.

Remarking on his emergence as the new Africa Regional Representative, Mohammed Dikko Bala, who is a dedicated and highly committed ranger, promised to continue protecting and promoting the interest of African rangers, forest guards and other protected area workers.

He expressed his sincere gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Lawal Abbas and the Conservator-General of the National Park Service, Dr. Ibrahim Musa Goni, for their kind approval and unwavering support for his participation in the elections.

Bala promised to be more dedicated and committed in his new position towards giving African rangers a renewed hope and a befitting representation at the IRF as well as in realizing the 30X30 target.

He explained that The 30X30 target is the target 3 of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) aimed at achieving effective conservation and management of at least 30% of the Earth’s land and sea area by 2030.

In his message at the 10th IRF Congress, President of International Ranger Federation, Chris Galliers, emphasized the critical role rangers play especially given the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.

Calling for more support for rangers, he said, “Ask yourself this simple question, how much wildlife would there be today, if there were no rangers, and you will realize why the world needs to recognize the value and importance of rangers, particularly in light of the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss facing humanity.”

Speaking further, Galliers said “Whether state, private, volunteer or indigenous community rangers, rangers are essential planetary health workers and are the key workforce in achieving the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework Targets.”

He noted that the 10th IRF World Ranger Congress was an opportunity to share knowledge, develop new skills, broaden perspectives, forge meaningful collaborations and collectively, advance the ranger profession.

The 10th World Ranger Congress was organized by the International Ranger Federation in collaboration with Gardes Natures de France (GNF), in Hyeres, France, from 7-11 October 2024

The International Ranger Federation Congress is a Triennial global forum and the 10th IRF Congress attracted over 400 ranger professionals and conservation workers to discuss topics of common interest and concern in an international development event.

The IRF Congress is a pivotal event that fosters international collaboration, addressing pressing environmental issues such as wildlife protection, sustainable practices, and emerging technologies. Beyond knowledge exchange, the Congress celebrates ranger commitment and bravery, acknowledging their sacrifices on the conservation frontline.

With a focus on diversity and inclusivity, the event honors indigenous perspectives and advocates for ongoing support. It stands as a dynamic, cross-cultural platform shaping the future of global conservation efforts.

Nigeria Emerges New Africa Representative in International Ranger Federation

Nigerian Wins Chinese Singing Competition

By: Michael Mike

A Nigerian, Linda Ifeoma has emerged as the winner of the Chinese category at a Singing Competition organised by the China General Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria and the China Cultural Centre.

The grand finale of the competition sponsored by China Harbour Engineering Company Nigeria Limited, had two categories Chinese and English and was held at the weekend at the Chinese Cultural Centre in Abuja

Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the event, Linda expressed her excitement about her win, as she competed in a category dominated by Chinese native speakers.

She said she initially did not want to compete when she was contacted as she had lost first time she competed at a similar competition.

She narrated that: “At that time (last time she contested), I was very discouraged. But when she asked me to try again, I thought, ‘Okay, let me give it another shot.’ Initially, I didn’t even expect to win the first round. So, I’m absolutely excited to win here today.”

Linda’s journey to the finals involved winning the first round of the competition held few days earlier, followed by intensive practice leading up to her performance in the finale.

Linda, who studied Business Education at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and pursued Chinese as a side course, and later received a Chinese government scholarship to study in Nanjing, China, where she earned a master’s degree in the language, performed a Chinese song, showcasing her fluency and passion for the language.

She said: “When I was in school, I wanted to work in an embassy. I asked myself, ‘What do I need to achieve this goal?’ I realized I needed to learn a language other than my mother tongue.”

The singer also shared her aspirations in songwriting, describing this competition as a pivotal moment in her journey. “Personally, I write songs, and I think this is an opportunity for me to step out of my shell and showcase my talent,” she said.

Linda encouraged Nigerians to study Chinese language, highlighting its potential to unlock opportunities in employment and cultural exchange, noting that: “The character aspect can be challenging, but with dedication, you’ll find it easier to learn.”

Other winners of the competition were recognized in both English and Chinese categories.

English Category Winners: Third Prize (200,000 Naira): Chen Jun, Li Wei, and Qiu Liu Liu

Second Prize (300,000 Naira): Guan Xin and Wang Jia Yi

First Prize (500,000 Naira): Tan Jian

Chinese Category Winners: Third Prize (200,000 Naira): Yang Fan, Zhang Ji, and Deng Xiu Yuan.
Second Prize (300,000 Naira): Contestants Glory Livingston and Yang Xin.

The event which is organised annually underscored the strengthening ties between China and Nigeria through cultural exchange and mutual appreciation of music and language.

Nigerian Wins Chinese Singing Competition