President Paul Biya’s presence here in Bamenda to preside at celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the Cameroon Defence Forces and Commune with his compatriots is as eventful as the event itself. The Cameroon Head of State has visited this region half-a dozen times, and on each occasion has been accorded a befitting welcome by the people. But this time, the pleasant surprises reserved for him and other observers are many. To those who know the North Westerner and his convictions about genuine love and those who deserve it, the hectic preparations for events of 8-9 December 2010, may not be seen as surprises. For, who doubts the massive “Yes” this part of the country responded with at the February 11, 1961 plebiscite when they had to choose between integration with a neighbouring country and reunification with their brothers and sisters East of the Mungo. One of those brothers who is today, their Head of State comes from Meyomessala, in (Dja et Lobbo) his first home. The second, Bamenda which welcomes him in a special way this day, was publicly made known in 1983.

However, what makes today’s events special is not the fact that President Paul Biya once declared Bamenda his second home, and since then has demonstrated his concern for its development in various domains. The big and enviable event is the celebration marking the 50th anniversary of the Cameroon Armed Forces, an occasion that makes it possible for the august Guest to share his love with compatriots, while they expect more pleasant surprises from him.

When the Cameroon Head of State in his New Year address on 31st December 2009 announced that the 50th anniversary of the Cameroon Armed Forces would be celebrated in Bamenda, not many compatriots could have believed that the event would be given the pomp that is being seen and felt here today. Very few would have believed the military ceremonies would include a cultural jamboree which the people of this region have reserved for their beloved Head of State, man of the New Deal and Fon of Fons.

Certainly, the President has been conscious of the fact that when in 1983 he declared Bamenda his second home, he meant to prove his affection for the people he truly loves, and, sustains his commitment to their development. Such concern for the North Westerner, except those who close their eyes and ears to reality can be seen from the number of administrative units, schools, health Centres and various infrastructure the people have been provided with since President Biya’s accession to power in 1982. In the face of all these, is there any reason to doubt his love and concern for this region?. Besides appreciating this concern in song and dance, gifts and pledges of loyalty, citizens ought to be aware of the truth that rational politicking demands acknowledgement of favour and stewardship through practical demonstration of one’s good will. The North West cannot afford to be indifferent at a time when we need to encourage each other no matter his or her status.

The President himself showed this example in July 1983 when at the graduation of military officers in Yaounde he reminded them of the truth that even though soldiers are trained to defend, they are also a permanent symbiosis between all forces of nation building. The President in other speeches has since made it clear to our Armed Forces that they are catalysts of development. For, without political stability and peace, there can hardly be effective development. To give this its true meaning, loyalty should include support to the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces , and all forms of encouragement which enable the Military to perform effectively their various roles as, engineers, physicians, divers trainers, musicians and defenders of sovereignty.

By deciding to let his compatriots celebrate in Bamenda our Army’s fifty years of achievements, and the challenge to forge ahead, despite challenges, President Biya in effect, reminds fellow Cameroonians of the importance of fraternal love, tolerance, and concern for our common future.