The Federal Government has firmly denied claims that the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, dismissed the recent concerns expressed by the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum, regarding the resurgence of Boko Haram insurgents in the state.
In a press release signed by Rabiu Ibrahim, the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, the ministry described such claims as a “gross distortion” of the Minister’s actual statements. The clarification followed widespread media reports suggesting that Idris had instructed the public to disregard Zulum’s security warnings, with one report allegedly quoting him as saying, “Ignore Zulum, Boko Haram is not taking over Borno.”
“This is categorically false and a gross distortion of the Minister’s remarks,” the statement emphasized. “At no time did the Minister utter such words. The headline in question is not only sensational but appears to be a deliberate act of misinformation designed to stoke public misunderstanding and undermine the efforts of the Federal Government.”
The controversy emerged after Governor Zulum publicly raised alarm over what he described as renewed attacks by Boko Haram fighters in parts of Borno State. The governor lamented that these developments suggested the government may be “losing ground” in the decade-long battle against the insurgents. His remarks sparked concerns and reignited debate around Nigeria’s counter-insurgency strategy, particularly in the North-East.
Responding to the growing public reaction, Minister Idris acknowledged that while progress has been made in combating terrorism and restoring stability across various regions, some areas—especially the North-East—remain vulnerable to extremist attacks.
“The Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has remained committed to defeating terrorism and banditry across the country,” Idris stated. “We have continued to invest in modern security infrastructure, enhanced intelligence gathering, and tactical operations to ensure that Nigeria becomes safer and more secure for all citizens.”
He added that recent coordinated military operations, bolstered by improved collaboration between security agencies and local communities, have contributed significantly to reducing the threat levels in several hot zones.
The Minister further stressed the importance of synergy between federal and state authorities in overcoming the country’s complex security challenges. He called on all stakeholders—including state governments, traditional institutions, and civil society groups—to work closely with the Federal Government to secure Nigeria’s future.
“Governor Zulum’s concerns are legitimate and must be viewed within the context of his responsibilities to the people of Borno,” Idris stated. “The Federal Government welcomes feedback from state leaders and remains open to collaboration that will ensure the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.”
While addressing media queries, the Minister also condemned the rise in sensational reporting and urged journalists to prioritize accuracy, context, and national interest in their reportage.
“We urge media platforms to uphold the ethics of responsible journalism by avoiding sensationalism and publishing only verified information,” the statement read. “The collective task of rebuilding peace in our nation must not be undermined by reckless and irresponsible reportage.”
Despite pockets of resurgence, Nigeria’s military has recorded several victories against Boko Haram and its splinter groups in recent months. Intelligence reports reveal that coordinated air and ground offensives have dismantled many insurgent camps in the Sambisa Forest and Lake Chad regions. In addition, the Nigerian Air Force has increased aerial surveillance and drone operations in high-risk areas, while the Nigerian Army has intensified community engagement programs to gain actionable intelligence.
The Defence Headquarters also disclosed last month that over 1,200 terrorists and their families surrendered to troops in Borno and Yobe States—a development considered a positive sign by counter-terrorism analysts.
However, insecurity remains a pressing issue in other parts of the country as well, with banditry, farmer-herder clashes, and kidnapping-for-ransom operations threatening national stability. The Tinubu administration has pledged to tackle these issues holistically, focusing on both military solutions and addressing the root socio-economic causes of conflict.
The Minister’s office reiterated its readiness to provide timely and transparent communication to the public but cautioned against politically motivated narratives that could undermine national unity and demoralize the armed forces.
“We are in a critical phase in our collective journey toward peace and stability,” the statement added. “Every stakeholder, including the media, must play a constructive role in building a safer Nigeria. Misinformation serves only to empower those who seek to destabilize our country.”
As Nigeria continues to navigate the complex terrain of national security, public officials and the press are being reminded of the importance of mutual accountability, respect for verified facts, and a shared commitment to national development.