Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, and the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, have raised alarm over a fresh wave of Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks ravaging several communities in the state.
Speaking during an expanded security meeting held at the Government House in Maiduguri, Governor Zulum expressed deep concern over the recent escalation of violence, warning that the situation could deteriorate further if not urgently addressed by the federal government and security agencies.
“In recent times, Borno State has been witnessing sporadic attacks from Boko Haram insurgents. Many military formations have been dislodged, including in Wulgo, Wajiroko and Sabon Gari,” Zulum said. “It seems we are losing ground.”
He noted that the strategic position of Borno bordering Cameroon, Chad, and Niger makes it particularly vulnerable, especially with increasing instability in the Sahel region.
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While acknowledging past efforts by the federal government and military, Zulum urged renewed focus on the northeast, warning that shifting security priorities could roll back years of progress in the fight against insurgency.
“The recent attacks on Sabon Gari, Damboa, Wulgo, Baga, and Monguno highlight the urgent need for aggressive military action and actionable intelligence,” he stated. “Our forces must go beyond defensive operations and take the battle to the insurgents.”
He called for sustained offensive operations including patrols, picketing, and “decapitation missions” to prevent the terrorists from regrouping.
Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s continued support for the armed forces and other security agencies operating in the state, emphasizing the link between security, development, and peace.
“Borno State Government will continue to invest in critical infrastructure and sustainable livelihoods to support peacebuilding, but this cannot happen without empowering our security forces to secure lives and property,” he added.
The Shehu of Borno also voiced his concern, urging collective action to halt the worsening attacks and restore peace to affected communities.
At the end of the closed-door meeting, Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar, disclosed that the state’s security council reaffirmed its backing for government-led resettlement initiatives.
