Yemi Obafemi
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has expressed renewed optimism over ongoing efforts to combat insurgency in the North-East, following a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Addressing State House correspondents after the meeting, Zulum said he briefed the President on the current security situation in Borno and the broader North-East region.
He revealed that, in response to his appeal, the Nigerian Armed Forces had recently taken strategic decisions aimed at curbing the activities of Boko Haram and ISWAP..
“Honourably speaking, we made a plea to the federal government of Nigeria, and I believe within the last couple of days, the Nigerian armed forces have taken some certain decisions that will curtail the imminence of the insurgency,” he said.
Among the federal government’s key strategies is the proposed establishment of forest guards, which the governor described as a “game-changer” in the battle against insurgents who often operate from remote and forested areas.
Zulum also noted that some insurgents are in possession of sophisticated weapons, but he believes the federal government is aware and taking necessary steps to address the situation.
He revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had personally assured him of the government’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the state.
“By and large, the president has given me assurance that they will do everything to control the situation,” Zulum stated.
Reaffirming his own administration’s commitment, the governor vowed to continue building local resilience by mobilizing volunteers and community-based support to bolster the military’s operations.
“As the governor of Borno State, I will not relent in my effort in strengthening the resilience of our community and getting our volunteers so that the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces shall be complemented,” he said.
Zulum issued a strong warning against the occupation of any local government by insurgent groups, declaring that “no local government shall be allowed to be taken over by Boko Haram or ISWAP members.”
He urged the Armed Forces, civilian authorities, and all stakeholders to stand firm and protect Borno’s territories.
“I believe, inshallah, with the support of the Nigerian Army, with the support of the Armed Forces, we will not leave a single local government to fall into the hands of the insurgents,” he concluded.
