‘Difficult days behind us’: Zulum confident of lasting peace in Borno

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has expressed renewed optimism about the security outlook in the state, saying ongoing military efforts have drastically weakened insurgent groups and restored a measure of stability to previously troubled areas.

Speaking on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Shuaibu Waidi, in Maiduguri, the governor noted that although isolated attacks still occur, the scale of violence had reduced considerably from what residents endured in earlier years.

“Borno has suffered unimaginable hardship, but the most difficult phase of this conflict is behind us,” Zulum said. “We still face threats, but the tempo of attacks has declined sharply. Our people can now see tangible signs of progress,” he added.

He called on the public to remain alert and continue cooperating with security agencies through intelligence sharing, stressing that the gains recorded must be protected through collective vigilance.

Zulum commended troops on the frontline for their resilience, describing them as patriots whose sacrifices have made the gradual return of peace possible. “We honour the bravery of our soldiers and will continue to stand firmly with the Armed Forces,” he assured.

Responding, the Army chief pledged that the military leadership would strengthen logistical support for troops, stating that the Army remained committed to achieving lasting security in the region. “Your support has been invaluable, and we will ensure our personnel receive all necessary resources to fulfil their mandate,” Waidi said.

The meeting with the COAS came shortly after Zulum’s separate engagement with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, who was also in Maiduguri for an operational review.

During that session, the governor renewed his call for a coordinated, large-scale operation targeting terrorist hideouts in the Tumbus Islands on Lake Chad, the Mandara Hills, and the Sambisa axis. He lamented that these difficult terrains had enabled Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters to regroup over the years.

Zulum argued that only a joint action involving the Navy, Air Force and Army could permanently dismantle the remaining insurgent sanctuaries. He also encouraged the Nigerian Air Force to deploy more drones across the theatre to improve surveillance and rapid response.

“The Lake Chad region has become a key refuge for these groups,” the governor said. “A decisive, well-coordinated operation is essential if we are to finally bring this insurgency to an end.”