Zulum Raises Alarm, Says Borno Losing Ground to Boko Haram

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Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has expressed grave concern over the worsening security situation in the state, warning that frequent Boko Haram attacks and kidnappings indicate the insurgents are regaining strength.

Speaking at a high-level security meeting in Maiduguri on Tuesday, Zulum lamented recent assaults on military formations in Wajirko, Sabon Gari (Damboa LGA), Wulgo (Gamboru Ngala), and Izge (Gwoza LGA), as well as the killing of civilians and security personnel.

“The daily attacks without confrontation suggest Borno is losing ground. The overrunning of military bases is a major setback for the fragile peace in the state and the Northeast,” he said.

The meeting was attended by the General Officer Commanding 7 Division, Major General Abubakar Haruna, security chiefs, traditional rulers, including the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, and emirs from Bama, Biu, Uba, Askira, and Gwoza. However, the Shehu of Dikwa and Emir of Shani were absent.

While acknowledging President Bola Tinubu’s support, Zulum called for enhanced military capabilities, including advanced technology, to counter insurgents in Borno’s border regions with Chad, Niger, and Cameroon.

The Shehu of Borno commended security forces but disclosed that Guzamala, Marte, Abadam, and parts of Mobbar LGAs remain under militant control, with no civil authority present. He urged the Federal Government to reconstruct critical highways—Biu-Damboa-Maiduguri, Maiduguri-Dikwa-Ngala, Maiduguri-Monguno-Kukawa, and Biu-Damaturu—to improve security and development.

Originally a religious group, Boko Haram has carried out bombings, assassinations, and mass kidnappings. A faction later pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, rebranding as ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province).