…Visit IDPs to ensure enhanced security
Babagana Zulum, Governor of Borno State, has reassured residents of Gwoza and surrounding communities of strengthened security measures and sustained humanitarian support following recent attacks. The governor stressed that all those currently in captivity will be rescued.
Salient Times reports that Ngoshe, a community in the Gwoza local government area, was attacked on March 4. The raid forced residents to flee their homes, and more than 300 villagers are still being held by terrorists.
Zulum spoke at the weekend during a confidence-building visit to displaced people from Ngoshe, who are currently taking refuge in Pulka. This marks the second time the governor has visited victims from the community, as he remains deeply concerned about the security situation across the state.
Addressing the displaced persons at Pulka Central Primary School, Zulum said the visit was aimed at reinforcing government support, boosting public confidence, and engaging stakeholders on improved security strategies.
“The major reason why we are here is first and foremost to once again sympathise with them and to convey our deepest sympathy, and to assure them that the federal government and the Borno State government will do everything possible to strengthen the security of the entire Gwoza community,” Zulum said.
Rebuilding and community collaboration
The governor informed residents that the administration would rebuild destroyed infrastructure and ensure a safe, dignified return for anyone willing to go back to the community. He urged residents to collaborate with security agencies to enhance resilience and prevent future attacks.
Zulum further disclosed that food and non-food items would be distributed to displaced households. He noted that humanitarian assistance would also be extended to the Pulka community, which has accommodated displaced persons from neighbouring areas.
“Most of them have left their homes for approximately two weeks, and we believe there is a need to provide palliatives. By tomorrow morning, we shall provide food and non-food items to heads of households and married women,” Zulum added.
Strengthening local security partnerships
On the issue of security, the governor said consultations would be held with military commanders and local security outfits, including the Civilian JTF, hunters, and vigilantes, to strengthen operations in the area.
“Tonight, we shall discuss with the brigade commander, military officers, and all security personnel on how to strengthen security around this general area,” he said.
Zulum emphasised that ongoing counter-terrorism efforts are driven by strong collaboration between security forces and local communities. He noted that the Civilian JTF, hunters, and vigilantes are working under the command and control of the Nigerian Army.
The governor was accompanied by Mohammed Ali Ndume, Senator representing Borno South, along with members of the House of Representatives, the House of Assembly member representing Gwoza, and the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs.
