Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has expressed serious concern regarding the recent surge in attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP, urging the federal government and security agencies to implement decisive measures before the situation deteriorates further.
In recent months, communities in Borno have faced increased assaults as insurgents target villages and military installations, notably in areas such as Sabon Gari, Wajiroko, and Wulgo.
During an expanded security meeting held at the Borno State Government House in Maiduguri, Zulum implored the federal government to prioritize security in the Northeast, especially in Borno State, which shares borders with Chad, Cameroon, and the Republic of Niger, as well as facing security challenges in the Sahel region.
Zulum stated, “While we value the significant support from the federal government and the military, it is essential to highlight that the current shift in focus away from the Northeast could reverse the progress we have made in combating insecurity.”
He further remarked, “Borno State has recently experienced sporadic assaults from Boko Haram insurgents, leading to the dislodgement of several military formations in Wulgo, Wajiroko, and Sabon Gari, among others. It appears we are losing ground.”
The governor emphasized the need for the federal government to give heightened attention to the Northeast, particularly Borno State, to effectively tackle terrorism in Nigeria.
Zulum added, “The recent uptick in Boko Haram attacks throughout the state is alarming. There is an urgent necessity for robust military action and actionable intelligence to counter the insurgency. The attacks in Sabongari, Damboa, Wulgo, Baga, and Monguno underscore the need for a more vigorous response to the Boko Haram threat.”
“I urge our armed forces to not only establish checkpoints and protect our towns and villages but also to take the fight directly to the enemy. We must not allow terrorists the opportunity to regroup, rearm, and launch further attacks. Through relentless patrols, strategic operations, and offensive missions, our troops should aim to decisively defeat the insurgency, facilitating our recovery efforts without obstruction.”
The Governor reaffirmed his commitment to support the military and other security agencies operating in Borno State to achieve their objectives in combating insurgency.
He stated, “The Borno State government will continue to collaborate closely with the armed forces to implement our development and peacebuilding initiatives. We recognize the vital connection between development, security, and peace. Therefore, while we invest in essential infrastructure, we are also creating new opportunities for our citizens in agriculture and sustainable livelihoods.”
Zulum concluded, “None of these efforts will be feasible without adequately resourcing and empowering our security agencies to protect our territory and ensure the safety of our citizens’ lives and property. My administration will persist in supporting our defense and security forces while encouraging enhanced performance in addressing terrorism, insurgency, and criminal activities.”
Following the closed-door session of the security meeting, Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar, informed journalists that the security council had voiced its support for the Borno State Government’s resettlement initiatives.
The meeting was attended by Major General Abubakar Haruna, General Officer Commanding 7 Division, as well as traditional rulers from the seven emirate councils of Borno and leaders from various security agencies.
