By Rabiu Sulaiman Dankani
The Burra community of Ningi Local Government Area has presented a memorandum to the House of Representatives Committee on the Amendment of the 1999 Constitution, requesting the creation of Burra Local Government Area.
The community delegation, led by Alhaji Zakari Hussaini Burra, stated that the quest for local government status began over 50 years ago, driven by the need for rapid economic and social transformation. "Burra is the oldest district in Nigeria without a local government status, established as far back as 1902," Alhaji Burra said.
He explained that the distance between Burra and Ningi, the Local Government Headquarters, has created serious security and administrative challenges, affecting economic growth. "The district is one of the oldest, with a long history dating back to the 18th century," he added.
The proposed Burra Local Government Area would comprise the present Burra District, with a population of 173,112 according to the 2006 census, and projected to rise to 340,987 in 2025. The area is rich in agricultural land, mineral deposits, and has a significant game reserve.
Alhaji Burra appealed to the National Assembly to consider and approve the request, enabling the people of Burra to feel the impact of government. "We are capable and experienced civil servants who would contribute to the development of the proposed local government," he said.
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Constitutional Amendment for the Northeast, Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, promised to work towards making the agitation a reality. "We will do everything possible to ensure that the creation of Burra Local Government Area becomes a reality," he assured.