Ibrahim Mai Riga (alias Kawulala), the 30 year old man who
trekked from Taraba to Borno state to show appreciation to the Nigerian
military over their efforts at liberating captured territories from Boko Haram,
has been awarded for his effort. Riga received a traditional title as well as a
Peugeot 406 car and N250,000 from the Borno state government.
The government said they were rewarding him for his efforts
at encouraging other fleeing residents of the state to come back home. Riga
trekked for 11 days and covered a distance of over 800km
He was received in
Maiduguri by the GOC 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Lamidi
Adeosun, in company of other officers and soldiers on Monday May 18th.
General Lamidi Adeosun said he personally received Kawulala
in order to identify with his feat. Riga also visited the emir of Gwoza, Alhaji
Mustapha Muhammadu Idrissa Timta, who bestowed the title of ‘Sarkin Tafiya’
(Master Trekker) on him
“We are proud of you because your trek is symbolic and opens the way for our people that fled to various locations within Nigeria and neighbouring countries to return,” the emir said.
Borno state Deputy governor, Zannah Umar Mustapha also
granted Riga audience in his office and presented him with a 406 Peugeot car
and N250,000.
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