The rich cultural heritage of the Bura people came alive during the 2025 Annual Bura Cultural Day, popularly known as Marama Day, held on Tuesday in Marama Town, Hawul Local Government Area of Borno State.
The event, themed “Preserving the Bura Cultural Heritage,” showcased traditional dances, artifacts, and cultural practices, underscoring the importance of heritage preservation in fostering unity and economic growth.
Speaking at the occasion, the Deputy Governor of Borno State, H.E. Umar Kadafur, who represented Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to cultural preservation and grassroots development.
Kadafur said the government would continue to promote initiatives that enhance tourism, create jobs, and foster peace and prosperity across the state.
“Cultural preservation is key to building a sustainable future where our heritage drives tourism and economic activities, uniting our communities in peace and progress,” he said.
The Deputy Governor launched the Marama Community Development Association (MCDA) Almanac with a donation of N20 million, further supporting community development efforts.
He also donated N10 million to the Bura Women Association to enhance their skills acquisition centre, emphasizing the state’s dedication to empowering women and promoting vocational training.
The festival also featured the commissioning of a police outpost initiated and constructed by the MCDA, which Kadafur described as a testament to the community’s commitment to security and development.
The Chairman of Hawul Local Government, Mr. Useini Yunusa Malgwi, applauded the state government for its consistent support, including the overhaul of Marama General Hospital and youth empowerment programs.
He, however, appealed for the fulfillment of promises to establish a College of Agriculture in Marama and complete the Marama Dam project.
Malgwi also requested the fencing of Marama Central Primary School and repairs to key roads linking Yimirshika, Sakwa, Marama, and Kidang.
In their goodwill messages, the Emir of Biu, HRH Alhaji Mustapha Umar Mustapha, and the Emirs of Shani and Fika lauded the organizers for showcasing Bura cultural activities.
They called for unity among the people, urging them to uphold the cultural values and traditions of the Bura community.
The event attracted dignitaries, including Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, members of the State House of Assembly, retired Justice Ibrahim Auta Ndahi, and other political and traditional leaders.
The festival featured colorful traditional dances and exhibitions of artifacts, reflecting the Bura people’s pride in their heritage.
Kadafur urged the community to sustain the spirit of the festival, saying, “Let us carry this celebration beyond today, transforming the pride in our culture into actions that will ensure a brighter future for our people.”
