Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has voiced deep concerns over the recent surge in Boko Haram attacks targeting critical military installations, warning that the state could be on the brink of descending back into chaos.
The governor made these remarks during an expanded Security Council Meeting on Tuesday at the Government House in Maiduguri.
He drew attention to alarming developments in areas such as Wulgo, Sabongari, and Wajirko, where insurgents had successfully overrun multiple military positions.
He stated, “It seems we are losing ground, and this is a critical matter that must be addressed immediately.”
Zulum acknowledged the peace that had gradually returned to Borno over the past three years but noted the increasing frequency of sporadic attacks, signaling a resurgence of violence.
In response, he called for the deployment of advanced military equipment, including fighter helicopters and newly acquired drones, to bolster security efforts in affected regions.
During the meeting, which brought together traditional rulers and heads of security agencies, the governor emphasized the need for honesty in confronting the current security challenges.
“While we commend the efforts of the Nigerian military, Police, DSS, and paramilitary forces in maintaining law and order, we must also speak the truth,” Zulum said. “If we don’t, all the progress we’ve made could be undone.”
As Chairman of the Northeast Governors Forum, Zulum made a passionate appeal to the federal government, urging more focused attention on the northeastern states.
He argued that Borno, with its strategic position bordering Chad, Niger, and Cameroon, is a crucial front in the fight against insurgency.
He warned that failure to address the growing influx of foreign insurgents could push the state back into chaos.
“The northeastern states of Nigeria deserve more attention,” Zulum stressed. “Borno’s location makes it pivotal in the fight against insurgency. If we don’t act now, the state could again descend into turmoil. I believe the President will not allow that to happen.”
The governor also called on the Nigerian Army to go beyond simply guarding towns and villages.
“The army must take the fight to the insurgents, preventing them from regrouping and launching attacks on our people,” he said.
While reaffirming the state government’s commitment to ongoing peacebuilding and development projects, Zulum noted that these efforts could only succeed with strong, effective security in place.
He also reassured the public that Borno’s resettlement plans are moving forward but could not be fully realized without a secure environment.
The Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al Amin El-Kanemi, shared his own concerns, revealing that some local government areas, including Abadam, Marte, and Guzamala, remain under Boko Haram control.
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“These areas are completely inaccessible. People are too afraid to return,” he said, also pointing out the threat posed by settlers pretending to seek education or engage in business.
Additionally, the Shehu emphasized the dire need for infrastructural development in the state, particularly roads.
He appealed to the federal government to prioritize the reconstruction of critical federal highways that connect key towns, which have deteriorated into dangerous conditions.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including Major General Abubakar Haruna, General Officer Commanding 7 Division; Sector Commanders; the Commissioner of Police; and representatives from other security agencies.
Notable traditional leaders, such as the Shehu of Borno, Shehu of Bama, and Emirs of Biu, Uba, Askira, and Gwoza, were present, while the Shehu of Dikwa and Emir of Shani were absent.
