After 13 years without an end-of-year celebration due to insecurity, the Lassa community in the Askira local government area of Borno State welcomed the new year with a grand event.
For over a decade, Christians and Muslims in Lassa had not united for celebrations as they once did before the onset of the Boko Haram crisis. However, the 2024 event, themed “Lassa 2024 Thanksgiving and Countdown to 2025,” organised by Hon. Haske Satumari Kudla, marked a significant return to community festivities. The gathering provided an open invitation for families to come together, express gratitude, and celebrate.
The event took the form of a testimony night, drawing participants from all 27 LGAs of Borno State, as well as various parts of Nigeria and the diaspora, who shared their stories and experiences.
“The attendees who travelled from distant locations expressed that they would have come in greater numbers had they known the event would be so monumental. It felt like a carnival. We are already planning for 2025,” said the organiser, Haske Satumari Kudla.
He added, “Many individuals want to collaborate with us to make the 2025 event even more significant. Some participants announced scholarships through the Haske Satumari Foundation.”
Governors from the Northeast reached out to commend the organisers, noting that what was once viewed as a hotbed of Boko Haram activity hosted a smooth, successful gathering.
The event was made possible by the assurances of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Christopher Musa, which encouraged the community to celebrate with fireworks. “We organized a fireworks display to welcome the new year. Representatives from all 27 LGAs attended the event in Askira Uba Federal Constituency, with people coming from across Nigeria and abroad, reminiscent of the joy we once shared,” remarked Dr Manasseh Allen.
“While insurgent activities have not completely ceased, they have significantly decreased. This is a testament to the government’s improved security efforts. We are encouraging our diaspora and fellow Nigerians to consider returning home.
“My plea to the federal government is to ensure that the success of this event encourages the return of displaced individuals, particularly those in IDPs’ camps. We urge the government to assist our people still in these camps and encourage those thriving abroad to support the repatriation process.
“Despite attacks around Damboa, which do not indicate a complete absence of peace, we can see that stability is gradually returning. What had not been accomplished in the past 13 years was finally realized,” he added.
In his speech during the programme, Hon. Haske Satumari Kudla emphasized the need for the federal government to build on the security improvements and the success of this event to facilitate the return of people to their villages.
“This is essential for our people to return to farming, as food security will not be a challenge if they can work the land.
“As we gather here, let us remember the sacrifices made by those who came before us—leaders who stood firm in their convictions, fought tirelessly against injustice, and envisioned a brighter future for all. They did not back down in the face of challenges but rose to meet them with courage and resolve. It is our responsibility to honor their legacy by continuing their fight until we prevail.
“We are at a turning point in our political landscape. Our people look to us for answers, hope, and inspiration. They want leaders who advocate for their needs, work tirelessly to improve their lives, and speak the truth on behalf of their people, not for personal gain.
“It is time for us to rise to this challenge and demonstrate unwavering leadership. If we are to be true champions for our cause, we must be bold, vocal, and unapologetic in our pursuit of our goals. Let us not shy away from controversy or criticism but engage with it, using it as fuel to propel our mission forward. The road ahead may be fraught with obstacles, but the rewards of our perseverance will surely manifest.
“My desire for us is to have the power to shape and change the narrative, influence change, and create a future aligned with our vision for a just and equitable society. But I cannot do this alone. We must unite as one formidable force, rallying others to join us in our mission. Together, we can harness our collective strength, passion, and expertise to mobilize our supporters and create a groundswell of momentum.
“I urge each of you to recommit yourselves to our cause. Embrace the challenges ahead as opportunities to fight for our freedom and liberation. Let our actions reflect our cherished values of justice, equity, fairness, and a fierce commitment to public service. Always remember that a great leader is defined not by their position but by their ability to inspire others to act. Let us inspire our members, supporters, and every citizen in our community to believe in a brighter tomorrow—a tomorrow we must create together. That is what Haske stands for, and that is what I represent,” he concluded.
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