Mohammed Garba
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has vehemently condemned the recent escalation of attacks by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) across multiple communities, urging residents to remain steadfast and prayerful amid renewed violence.
In a statement issued Tuesday by his spokesperson, Dauda Illiya, Zulum expressed deep sympathy for victims of recent assaults, including an improvised explosive device (IED) attack along the Maiduguri-Damboa Road that claimed two lives, and coordinated strikes in Marte, Chibok, Gwoza, and Kala Balge. The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with federal authorities, the military, and security agencies to “contain the scourge of terrorism.”
“These acts of terror are deeply condemnable. The recent tragic loss of our education staff, gallant troops, and innocent civilians is a painful reminder of the challenges we continue to face,” Zulum said. He emphasized that the surge in violence would not weaken the government’s resolve to end the 16-year insurgency, declaring, “This is a partial eclipse—and we shall overcome it, Insha Allah.”
The governor’s statement comes amid a wave of attacks that have reignited fears in the conflict-weary Northeast. On Monday, reports say an explosion targeting travelers on the Maiduguri-Damboa Road, alongside assaults in Marte and Chibok, underscore the militants’ persistent threat despite military operations.
Zulum, who recently visited Gwoza to meet with troops and the Izge community, stressed ongoing efforts to bolster security and community resilience. “I am more determined than ever to support the military, security agencies, and our volunteer forces in the fight to end terrorism,” he said, pledging enhanced logistics and morale-boosting measures for frontline personnel.
Residents have endured decades of insurgency, with Boko Haram’s 2009 uprising displacing millions and claiming thousands of lives. While the Nigerian Army claims progress in degrading militant networks, sporadic attacks continue to disrupt stabilization efforts.
Zulum’s appeal for public resilience and unity reflects both the gravity of the crisis and the fragile hope for peace. “We must stand together—prayerful, vigilant, and resolute,” he urged. “The road is long, but victory will be ours.”
