Video: Gwoza Before 1976

Long before it became a local government area, the land we now call Gwoza in Borno State, Nigeria, was already full of life, culture, and deep history. It was home to many ethnic groups, including the Glavda, Mafa, Mandara, Margi, and others. These people lived among tall hills, scattered rocks, and flowing streams. They farmed, hunted, and passed down stories from one generation to the next.

One of the stories remembered by elders today is about a tragedy that happened on the Gwoza Hills. This was many years ago, even before Nigeria became independent.

In those days, the people would climb the hills during certain times of the year to hold traditional festivals. These festivals were important. The people would sing, dance, and offer gifts to the spirits of their ancestors. The Gwoza Hills were seen as sacred ground.

But one year, something terrible happened.