Governor Zulum Pledges Enhanced Security for Borno's Border Communities
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has reaffirmed his administration's unwavering commitment to securing all border communities against threats from Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). This initiative aims to protect lives and property across the state, addressing vulnerabilities that have persisted for years.
Addressing Vulnerabilities in Border Areas
According to Governor Zulum, the border communities with Cameroon, Chad, and Niger have faced repeated attacks by insurgents between 2014 and 2025, highlighting ongoing security challenges. He made these pledges during a confidence- and resilience-building visit to displaced persons from Ngoshe, who are currently taking refuge in Pulka.
Ngoshe, a border community with Cameroon in Gwoza Local Government Area, was attacked on March 4, 2026, forcing many residents to flee to nearby bushes and hills for safety. This marks the second time Governor Zulum has visited victims of Boko Haram attacks in Ngoshe, expressing deep concern over the worsening security situation not only in Gwoza but throughout Borno State.
Reinforcing Government Support and Security Strategies
Addressing internally displaced persons at Pulka Central Primary School, Zulum emphasized that his visit was intended to reinforce government support, boost public confidence, and engage stakeholders on improved security strategies. These efforts focus on protecting lives in key border communities, including Ngoshe, Gwoza, Banki, Kirawa, Gambouru/Ngala, Rann, Baga, and Damasak.
Regarding his unscheduled second visit to Ngoshe, Zulum stated, "The major reason why we are here is first and foremost to once again sympathize with them and to convey our deepest sympathy, while assuring them that the Federal and State governments will do everything possible to strengthen security in the entire Gwoza LGA, including the several border villages with Cameroon."
Strengthened Security Measures and Humanitarian Aid
Governor Zulum reassured residents of Gwoza and other communities of enhanced security measures and sustained humanitarian support following the recent attacks on Ngoshe. He pledged that all abducted persons held by Boko Haram would be rescued by the military and announced plans for the state government to rebuild destroyed infrastructure.
Additionally, Zulum committed to ensuring a safe and dignified return for anyone willing to go back to reclaimed border communities. He urged displaced persons to collaborate with the military and other security agencies to enhance resilience and prevent future attacks.
Humanitarian Assistance and Community Support
Beyond security efforts, Governor Zulum disclosed that tons of food and non-food items would be distributed to displaced households. Humanitarian assistance will also be extended to the Pulka community, which has received IDPs from neighboring areas affected by recent attacks.
"Most of them have left their homes for about 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," he said.
Collaborative Counter-Terrorism Efforts
Regarding the security situation in border communities, Zulum announced that consultations would be held with military commanders and local security outfits, including the Civilian JTF, hunters, and vigilantes, to strengthen counter-terrorism operations in affected areas.
"Tonight, we shall discuss with the Brigade Commander, military officers, and all security personnel on how to strengthen security around this general area," Zulum emphasized, noting that ongoing counter-terrorism efforts are driven by a strong collaboration between security forces and local communities.
"What is ongoing here is a result of a very serious partnership between the army, other security personnel, and the community. The Civilian JTF, hunters, and vigilantes are working under the command and control of the Nigerian Army," he added.
Accompanied by Key Stakeholders
Governor Zulum was accompanied by several dignitaries, including Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume representing Borno South, members of the House of Representatives, the House of Assembly member for Gwoza, the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, his Transport and Energy counterpart, and stakeholders from Gwoza Local Council.
