The newly inaugurated International Cattle Market in Banki, a town within the Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, is set to play a significant role in boosting trade with neighboring countries, according to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum.
It was gathered that the facility measuring 450m x 450m with a perimeter fence of about 1.8 km, is designed to revitalize commerce, enhance cross-border trade, and foster economic growth in the region.
During the inauguration ceremony, Governor Zulum emphasized the importance of the Banki International Cattle Market in rejuvenating the local economy, providing employment opportunities, and creating a hub for transborder trade.
The market features 12 large ruminant sheds, three small ruminant sheds, lock-up shops, market stalls, and essential amenities such as water supply facilities and an administrative block.
The presence of Midjiyawa Bakari, the Governor of the Far North Region in Cameroon Republic, at the inauguration further highlights the potential of the Banki International Cattle Market to strengthen economic relations between the two countries.
The market’s strategic location, coupled with the commitment of the Borno State Government to support its growth, is expected to attract traders from across the region and stimulate economic activity.
He said, “As part of our efforts to rejuvenate commerce and enhance cross-border trade, we have established the Banki International Cattle Market, replacing a smaller village market that was devastated by years of conflict.
“This market now serves as a vital hub for trade between Borno State, the Far North Region of Cameroon, and Chad.
“Revitalising international border markets remains a priority for my administration to restore livelihoods and accelerate economic recovery in conflict-affected areas.”
In addition to the inauguration of the Banki International Cattle Market, Governor Zulum also unveiled a 20-classroom day secondary school equipped with laboratories, three units of 3-bedroom internal staff quarters, and five blocks of ten 2-bedroom teachers’ quarters.
Furthermore, Zulum inaugurated a Government Lodge in Banki, designed to accommodate visiting dignitaries and government officials.
In a remarkable move, Governor Zulum has directed the state Ministry of Education to admit pupils completing primary education in two communities in Cameroon to the newly inaugurated secondary school in Banki town.
The governor stated: “We are introducing student exchange programmes to promote cultural understanding and enhance international relations.
“As part of this initiative, I have approved an admission quota for primary school pupils from Amchide and Limani, allowing them to continue their secondary education here instead of travelling to Mora.
“In addition, the Ministry of Education has been directed to allocate admission quotas for these pupils in the first term of the 2025/2026 academic session.”
During the inauguration event, the Shehu of Bama, Umar Ibn Kyari, and the chairman of the Bama reconstruction committee, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, praised Governor Zulum for delivering the remarkable projects that will directly impact the people of Banki town.
They expressed their appreciation for the governor’s dedication to promoting economic growth and improving the livelihood of Banki’s residents.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, members of the House of Representatives, Dr. Zainab Gimba, and Engr. Bukar Talba.
Other dignitaries present include members of the House of Assembly representing Bama Central and Gulumba Woloji, Bukar Sunoma, Baba Shehu Gulumba, Kaltume Midjiyawa, wife of the governor of the Far North Region, Salamtou Baba; the Attorney-General of the Far North region in Cameroon and many other senior officials.
