Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has cried out over incessant terrorist attacks, saying that the state is losing its ground.
The governor said Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) deadly activities are increasing on a daily basis.
Speaking at an emergency security meeting in Maiduguri on Tuesday, Zulum called the recent surge unfortunate.
The meeting aimed to tackle the rising attacks. “As I address this important gathering today, it is unfortunate that the renewed Boko Haram attacks and kidnappings in many communities almost on a daily basis without confrontation signal that Borno State is losing ground,” the governor declared.
He noted the state’s past support for the military and security agencies. This help brought relative peace for years—until now. “It is disheartening to note the recent attacks and dislodgement of military formations in Wajirko, Sabon Gari in Damboa Local Government, Wulgo in Gamboru Ngala, Izge in Gwoza Local Government areas, among other related killings of innocent civilians and security agencies.
“It calls for serious concern, and it is a setback in the fragile state of Borno and the North East region,” he said, listing recent incidents.
The governor lauded the federal government, President Bola Tinubu, and security forces for their steady support against terrorists. Yet, he urged more action. He called for better equipment and tech-based warfare to stop the attacks quickly.
Prof Usman Tar, Borno’s Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, briefed journalists on the meeting’s outcomes.
He said the military vowed to boost its fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP. The Nigerian Air Force expects new tools soon to aid this effort.
Tar hailed the state’s resettlement programme. Over 100 towns and villages have been resettled.
However, three local governments—Abadam, Guzamala, and Marte—remain too dangerous for returns.
He also shared plans to clear land for farming as the rainy season nears. “Food security is the best security,” he said. The meeting asked the military to protect farmers.