Governor Zulum Exposes Terrorist Strongholds in Borno
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has made a crucial appeal to the Nigerian military high command, urging immediate action against terrorist groups operating in three specific locations across the northeast. During a meeting with the new Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, in Maiduguri, the governor highlighted the urgent need for a coordinated military offensive.
Three Critical Terrorist Hideouts Identified
Governor Zulum specifically pointed to the Tumbus islands in the Lake Chad region as the most significant stronghold for Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters. He emphasized that these scattered islands have never been properly targeted by a comprehensive joint operation involving all military branches.
The governor also identified two additional locations where militants maintain active presence: the Sambisa Games Reserve and areas along the Mandara hills. According to Zulum, these territories provide insurgents with the space to regroup, rearm, and launch fresh attacks against civilian populations and security forces.
Call for Enhanced Military Coordination and Technology
Governor Zulum stressed that current security gains would remain fragile without a synchronized military campaign across all services. He specifically requested expanded deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles and other surveillance technology to strengthen counter-insurgency operations.
"Any meaningful victory against terrorism must begin with clearing those locations," Zulum stated, highlighting the strategic importance of dismantling these enclaves. The governor also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his continued support to security agencies while requesting additional resources.
Military Leadership Responds Positively
In response, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke praised Governor Zulum's leadership in implementing the Borno Model, which focuses on community-driven reconstruction and stabilization efforts. The Air Chief confirmed that he had already directed personnel to prioritize operational readiness and closer coordination with ground units.
"The Borno Model has become a reference point within the region," Aneke noted, acknowledging the governor's direct interventions through land allocations and logistical support that have enhanced the Air Force's operational capacity in Maiduguri.
The meeting concluded with renewed commitment from both civilian and military leadership to intensify efforts against terrorism in northeastern Nigeria, with particular focus on the identified strongholds around Lake Chad and surrounding areas.
