Boko Haram’ll end soon: Shettima Declares

Shettima

Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State, on Thursday, expressed optimism that the Nigerian military will soon end the Boko Haram insurgency in the country.

He said the recent victory by the military in different encounters with the insurgents had brought back hope of ending the crisis soon.

"The military has brought back hope to the people with its renewed efforts in fighting the insurgents.

"With the recent victory, I believe peace will soon be the restored and normalcy will return,'' he said.

He commended the Federal Government for introducing the new passport, saying its introduction had placed the country among the best countries of the world.

"I think the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) deserves kudos for introducing the passport.

"This has made us proud as Nigerians, because the passport conformed to the best practices in the world," Shettima said.

The governor also commiserated with the NIS for losing some of its men to insurgency in the state.

"The numerous sacrifices of your men in restoring peace in the state will not go unnoticed.

"For those who lost their loved ones, accept our condolence," he said.

Speaking earlier, the Borno NIS Comptroller, Alhaji Madu Musa, said the launching of new passport was part of government's effort in preventing fraud in the issuance of passport.

He said the new passport was launched by President Goodluck Jonathan on July 30, in Abuja.

"The new passport is gender-friendly; it takes care of low income earners and the aged.

"It also accommodates frequent travellers and forestalls identity theft,'' he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 64-page e-passport costs N20, 000, the 32-page costs N15,000, while the 32-page for 60 and above and below 18 years costs N8,750.

Shettima made the statement at the launching of the new 64-page e-passport in Maiduguri.