Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has revealed the staggering financial toll of combating insecurity, disclosing that his administration has expended approximately N100 billion on security measures within the current year.
Security Costs Stall Development Projects
Governor Zulum made this revelation on Thursday, December 4, 2025, during an assessment visit to the palace of the Emir of Uba, Ali Ibn Mamza, in Uba town, located in the Askira/Uba Local Government Area. The governor lamented that the persistent security challenges have had a crippling effect on infrastructure development, particularly road construction.
He explained that contractors are unwilling to work in volatile areas, forcing the abandonment of critical projects. "I have plans to construct roads, but the problem is no contractor will want to come down and work here," Zulum stated, highlighting the direct link between peace and progress.
Alternative Strategies and Future Plans
To circumvent this obstacle, the governor announced proactive measures. His administration is establishing a quarry site in Gwoza and purchasing 100 trucks to empower the state's road maintenance agency to undertake construction independently. This move aims to reduce reliance on external contractors who are deterred by the security situation.
Zulum expressed frustration over the diversion of funds meant for development. "In this year, what I spent on security is about N100bn. If there is peace, why wouldn't I use it to do some developmental projects?" he questioned. He outlined numerous stalled plans for the education and health sectors, emphasizing that substantial resources are being channeled into security instead of building permanent social structures.
Assurances and Commendations
Despite the challenges, Governor Zulum assured residents of Askira/Uba and the wider state that road construction and other initiatives, including establishing higher education institutions and computer centres, will commence as security improves.
In his response, Emir Ali Ibn Mamza commended the governor's efforts, acknowledging the significant projects delivered despite the daunting security environment. "You've done a lot for us with many projects. If not for you, we would be suffering. We will continue to pray for lasting peace in Borno and the entire country," the traditional ruler said.
The disclosure underscores the immense economic burden of insecurity in Nigeria's North-East, where state resources are heavily prioritised for stabilization over long-term development.
