Summit To Explore Mechanisms To Counter Terrorism In Borno

The organisers of the bi-annual Kanem-Bornu 2026 Cultural Summit has said it will explore how traditional institutions, indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms, cultural education, arts, language and heritage preservation can be harnessed to counter violence, promote healing, and strengthen regional stability.

The chairman of the summit, Alhaji Hassan Zanna, who announced the 2nd edition of the Bi-annual Kanem–Bornu Cultural Summit 2026, scheduled to hold on 1st and 2nd January, said the summit will hold under the theme “Echoes of Resilience: Harnessing Culture for Peace and Regional Stability.”

He said the summit will serve as a global homecoming, bringing together sons and daughters of Kanem–Borno from across Nigeria and around the world, including members of the diaspora, scholars, professionals, traditional leaders, cultural custodians, youth and women, adding that it is a deliberate effort to reconnect Kanem Borno people to their shared heritage and mobilise collective wisdom, resources, and networks for the peace and stability of the region.

He said building on the success of the maiden edition, the 2nd Bi-annual Kanem–Borno Cultural Summit seeks to deepen conversations around identity, resilience, and responsibility, noting that at a time when the Lake Chad Basin continues to face security, humanitarian, and socio-economic challenges, the summit positions culture as a unifying force and a strategic tool for peacebuilding, reconciliation, and regional cooperation and integration.

The chairman of the summit said ,” The Kanem–Borno civilisation remains one of Africa’s most enduring legacies, renowned for governance, scholarship, trade, diplomacy, and coexistence across ethnic and cultural lines. For centuries, it nurtured systems that emphasized justice, tolerance, consultation, and social harmony. The Summit draws inspiration from this legacy to address contemporary challenges, reminding us that solutions to today’s crises can be found in the wisdom of our past.

” The theme ‘Echoes of Resilience’ reflects the lived experience of the Kanem–Borno people, at home and in the diaspora, who have endured displacement, conflict, and disruption, yet remain deeply connected to their roots. The Summit will explore how traditional institutions, indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms, cultural education, arts, language, and heritage preservation can be harnessed to counter violence, promote healing, and strengthen regional stability.

“Over the two days, the Summit will feature keynote addresses, high-level panel discussions, diaspora dialogues, youth and women forums, cultural and religious exhibitions, traditional performances, and policy-oriented sessions. Special attention will be given to diaspora engagement, knowledge exchange, investment in cultural industries, and pathways for youth participation in peace and development initiatives.”

Continuing, he said, ” Maiduguri, our host city, is both symbolic and strategic. It stands as a historic centre of Kanem–Borno civilisation and a contemporary symbol of courage and resilience. Hosting this Summit in Maiduguri underscores a powerful message: that the people of Kanem–Borno, wherever they reside, remain united in purpose and committed to rebuilding, healing, and progress.

“The 2nd edition of the Bi-annual Kanem–Bornu Cultural Summit is inclusive, non-partisan, and forward-looking. It seeks to complement ongoing security and development efforts by providing a cultural, intellectual, and people-driven platform that strengthens social cohesion and fosters long-term peace and stability in the region.”