Shehu of Borno's Palace
The palace of the Shehu of
Borno is prominently located at the end of Dandal Way in the Maiduguri
metropolis. The palace reflects the grandeur, prestigious relics and modified
architectural design of Arab civilizations. It is built of burnt bricks and was
constructed by four famous Kanuri masons and architects. The Dandal in front of
the Shehu’s palace is used for the Durbar festival as well as
the installation and turbanning of traditional rulers.
Durbar
The Durbar is a key
reflection of Borno State’s culture and
history. It features a display of horsemanship mainly organised to mark
important occasions and Sallah festivities, with royal horsemen, dances, –horses
and trumpeters led by the Shehu, emirs, district heads and other traditional
title holders.
Other remarkable festivals
which attract tourists from far and near to Borno are the Dikwa and Marte
Development Association (DDA and MDA) and Menwara festivals. The Dera people of
Shani Emirate celebrate the Menwara festival and it offers an opportunity for
the Emir of Shani to consult with his people on matters of peace, security,
unity and progress. The Menwara also serves as a period for the appreciation of
the year’s harvest. It also marks the beginning of the New Year.
The Dikwa and Marte Development Associations usually organise cultural
activities towards the end of each year to spread a message peace, unity and
harmonious coexistence amongst the the populace.
Gwoza Hills
The Gwoza Hills are formed by
a mountain range known as the Mandara Mountains. They are approximately 1300
meters above sea level and act as a natural barrier between Nigeria and
Cameroon. The Nigerian government also uses the hills as a training ground for
the Mobile Police, members of the Man-O-War-Bay and various National
Orientation courses.
Sambissa Game Reserve
The Sambissa game reserve is
located fourteen kilometres from Kawuri Village along the Maiduguri-Bama Road
and has an area of approximately 518 square kilometres. It harbours a sizeable
population of wildlife typical of the savannah habitat, including monkeys,
antelopes, lions and elephants, as well as bird species such as ostrich and
bustard.
Lake Chad
Lake Chad is the largest lake
in the Chad Basin and is fed by the Chari and Yobe rivers. Although it is
located mainly in Chad, the lake spills over into Nigeria, Niger and Cameroon
and provides water to thirty million people. Its surface is covered in many
small picturesque islands and it is home to various fish and algae species, as
well as hippopotami, crocodiles and a number of migratory birds.
Borno State Museum
The museum is situated at the
premises of the Open Theatre within the state capital. It was established
primarily for the preservation, exhibition, promotion and research of antiquities
as well as contemporary art works, crafts and other historical artefacts of the
people of the state.
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