By Abdulkareem Haruna

MAIDUGURI, Nigeria – The Shehu of Borno, His Eminence Abubakar Garbai Allamin Elkanemi, was on Saturday, Oct. 28 presented with a plaque of honor by Allamin Foundation, a Maiduguri-based nongovernmental, for his outstanding support for the course of women and peacebuilding. 

The Allamin Foundation, an NGO known for protection and advancement of the rights of women made the presentation to the royal father as part of the activities commemorating the 23rd anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (SCR1325).

The foundation had on Saturday bestowed awards upon other notable individuals, mostly women, in Borno State, who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to promoting women’s participation and advancing gender perspectives in peacebuilding.

The resolution, unanimously adopted on October 31, 2000, emphasizes the importance of women’s involvement in peace negotiations, humanitarian planning, peacekeeping operations, and post-conflict peacebuilding and governance.

Hajiya Wakilbe recognized for education development of girls

Under the theme of “Stand With Women,” the Allamin Foundation has identified and celebrated eminent personalities like the Shehu and other local heroes and heroines who have made significant contributions to the Women, Peace, and Security agenda in Borno State, northeastern Nigeria. 

While presenting the award as the Pillar for the Promotion, Prevention, Participation and Protection of Women and Children’s Rights during the 13 years of insurgency, the CEO of Allamim Foundation, Hajiya Hamsatu Allamin, noted that, “As the father figure to all, the palace doors have always remained open, providing a safe haven for individuals regardless of their background.”

“ Despite the inherent risks and challenges, every stake has been addressed with unwavering positivity. His Distinguished Eminence has become a pillar of protection for the most vulnerable, specifically women and children, offering them hope and a new perspective. Inspired by His Royal Highness, active citizens like ourselves have found courage and inspiration, while his faith and commitment to the Almighty have become a source of strength for the citizens of Borno and beyond.

In recognition of these exceptional qualities that distinguish him among his peers, the Allamin Foundation’s various social networks and support groups hereby acknowledge and bestow upon His Distinguished Eminence, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji (DR) Abubakar ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi (CFR), the prestigious Pillar Award for his outstanding promotion, prevention, participation, and protection of women and children’s rights throughout the thirteen years of violence and conflict in Northeastern Nigeria and beyond. Through this recognition, the Global Women, Peace, and Security Agenda in Borno and Nigeria as a whole is further empowered.

Other persons who distinguished themselves in the same venture were also recognised.

“These remarkable individuals have been instrumental in creating awareness and advocating for women’s rights in conflict-affected communities,” said Hamsatu Allami, the CEO of the foundation. 

“Among the living awardees whose leadership has championed the inclusion of women in decision-making processes, and the Commander of the Joint Task Force at Giwa Barracks, who has played a pivotal role in protecting women from various forms of abuse.”  

The Foundation also recognized Hajja Aishe Abba Wakilbe, the proprietor of Maiduguri Capital School, one of the earliest private schools in Borno state, for her unwavering dedication to providing educational opportunities for girls in the region.

Comrade Hajjagana being recognised for standing up to military’s abuse of rights even as she seek justice over the illegal arrest, detention of her son

The Allamin Foundation has gone a step further by honoring the memory of late luminaries who valiantly fought for the rights and safety of women. 

“Late Alhaji Baba Shettima Ali Monguo and Baba Kyari Sandabe, the Waziri of Bama, are to be  posthumously recognized for their pivotal roles in ensuring the well-being of men, women, and children in occupied territories.” 

 Additionally, tributes were paid to Mai Bintu of Bama town, the legendary female hunter who made the ultimate sacrifice in her relentless efforts to protect lives;  and Hajja Fanna Fuwuram, who fearlessly saved numerous women, men, and children in Bama before tragically losing her life.”

A young girl, only allowed to be recognized by the pseudonym Amma to hide her identity was also awarded for her courage in backing out of a suicide mission minutes before the bomb was supposed to go off in a crowded suburb of Maiduguri. 

Amma, the young supposed suicide bomber who defied Boko Haram by backing out of a suicide attack that saved lives also awarded

The awards ceremony aimed to highlight the significance of SCR1325 and its relevance to the local context. By recognizing these remarkable individuals, the Allamin Foundation seeks to inspire current and future generations to uphold the principles of women’s empowerment, peace, and security.

The event served as a call to action, urging the global community to rally behind the cause of women, peace, and security in Borno State. The Foundation appealed for widespread support and encouraged individuals and organizations to stand together in solidarity with their celebrated Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, as he strives to propel Borno State to new heights.

Through their recognition of local heroes and heroes, the Allamin Foundation aims to create a lasting impact by fostering a society that values and promotes women’s rights, gender equality, and inclusive peacebuilding. 

A cross session of participants at the event

The awards ceremony has brought to the forefront the experiences and hardships encountered by women and girls in conflict-affected areas of Africa, sparking a critical discussion on issues of gender and paving the path toward a future that is more inclusive and just.