Gov. Kashim Shettima of Borno on Thursday expressed optimism that the Nigerian military will soon end the Boko Haram insurgency in the country.
Shettima made the statement at the launching of the new 64 page e-passport in Maiduguri.
He said that 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 minds of the people with its renewed efforts in fighting the insurgents.
“With the recent victory, I belief that 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) deserve 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 lives accept our condolence,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the Borno NIS Comptroller, Alhaji Madu Musa said that the launching of new passport was part of government’s effort to prevent 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 travelers and forestalls identity theft,’’ he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 64-page e-passport cost N20, 000, the 32-page cost N15,000 while the 32-page for 60 and above and below 18 years cost N8,750. (NAN)
