Governor Zulum Raises Alarm Over Resurgence of Boko Haram Attacks in Borno
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has voiced deep concern over the recent wave of Boko Haram attacks and kidnappings sweeping across several communities in the state, warning that the situation threatens hard-won gains in the fight against insurgency.
Speaking during a high-level security meeting held Tuesday and attended by top military commanders, traditional leaders, and key stakeholders, Zulum described the recent dislodgment of military formations in some local government areas (LGAs) as a “significant setback” in Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts.
“Renewed Boko Haram attacks and kidnappings in many communities almost daily without confrontation signal that Borno State is losing ground,” Zulum stated candidly.
The governor cited deadly attacks in Wajirko, Sabon Gari (Damboa LGA), Wulgo (Gamboru Ngala), and Izge (Gwoza LGA), which claimed the lives of both civilians and security personnel. He called the incidents not only tragic but emblematic of a deeper vulnerability in the region’s security architecture.
While acknowledging the ongoing support from the federal government, Governor Zulum urged for a more robust and modernized approach to counterinsurgency, particularly through the deployment of advanced technology.
“As you are all aware, my administration has been very supportive of the military and other security agencies in the fight against Boko Haram, which led to relative peace over the last three years,” he said. “It is disheartening to now witness attacks and the dislodgement of military bases in strategic areas. This calls for serious concern.”
He stressed the urgency of equipping the armed forces with technological warfare capabilities to curb the resurgence of terrorism, particularly in the Sahelian belt of Borno, which shares borders with Chad, Niger, and Cameroon.
Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting national security agencies but emphasized that the recent setbacks must not be allowed to reverse the progress made in restoring peace to the northeast.
