Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has emphatically declared that no local government area in the state will be allowed to fall under the control of Boko Haram or the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP).
He affirmed that such a scenario, which once plagued the region during the peak of insurgency, “will never happen again.”
Governor Zulum made this vow on Monday during a media briefing with State House correspondents following a closed-door meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The governor said the purpose of his visit was to brief the President on the deteriorating security situation in the North-East, particularly in Borno State, and to seek enhanced federal intervention to counter the resurgence of insurgent activities in the region.
“Purposely, I came to brief him on the security situation in the North-East and in particular in Borno State,” Zulum said. “This is the main reason why I came, because you have heard it all—within the last few days, things are not getting very well in Northern Nigeria, particularly in the North-East.”
According to the governor, the security challenges in recent weeks have become more concerning, with renewed attacks and threats to some vulnerable areas. In response, Zulum disclosed that he personally visited several of the most affected local government areas to assess the situation on ground and to provide leadership in the state’s immediate response.
“We are trying to see how we shall reduce the incendiary attacks on military formations and others,” he noted, adding that his discussion with the President focused on strategies to strengthen collaboration between the state and federal government to overcome the rising threats.
Governor Zulum acknowledged that President Tinubu has shown strong resolve in addressing insecurity nationwide. He praised recent federal military decisions that aim to counter the insurgents’ renewed tactics, expressing optimism that these actions will significantly diminish the capacity of terrorist groups.
“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 certain decisions that will curtail the imminence of the insurgency,” Zulum said.
A key component of the emerging federal strategy, according to Zulum, is the planned establishment of a Forest Guard force—a specialized unit intended to patrol and secure the vast and difficult terrain that insurgents often exploit for cover and ambushes.
“Most importantly, some plans are underway by the federal government, especially the establishment of forest guards. That will be a game-changer,” he emphasized.
Governor Zulum also expressed grave concern about the insurgents’ increasing access to advanced weaponry. He noted that both Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters have become more sophisticated in their tactics and armament, posing an evolving threat to regional stability. However, he said the President had assured him that the federal government is fully aware of these dynamics and is preparing an appropriate and robust response.
“The President has given me assurance that they will do everything to control the situation, and I believe the federal government will do something,” he stated.
In addition to federal efforts, the governor pledged to intensify state-level initiatives aimed at building community resilience. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to mobilizing and supporting civilian volunteer groups, such as the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), to complement the work of the military and security agencies.
“On my own part, 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 reiterated that the state government is determined to ensure that no territory is lost to insurgents. He disclosed that he had issued a standing directive that no local government area in the state must be allowed to fall into terrorist hands again, declaring that the days of territorial conquest by insurgents are over.
“A few days ago I made a call that no local government shall be allowed to be taken over by Boko Haram or ISWAP members. It will never happen now,” he stated firmly.
The governor concluded with a call to unity and decisive action, urging the Armed Forces, security agencies, and community stakeholders to remain vigilant and proactive. With the combined efforts of the federal and state governments, and with divine support, he said, “we will not leave a single local government to fall into the hands of the insurgents.”
Zulum’s strong stance reflects his administration’s commitment to consolidating gains in the fight against terrorism and restoring lasting peace and development to Borno State and the wider North-East region.