Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum says the worst phase of Boko Haram insurgency is over, even as he admits recent attacks show the group is still capable of striking vulnerable areas.
Zulum made the remark on Wednesday during a meeting with the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Shuaibu Waidi, in Maiduguri.
He said the state has witnessed difficult moments in recent weeks but noted that the situation today is far better than the peak years of the conflict.
He added that earlier waves of attacks were more frequent and devastating compared to the current pattern, which he described as isolated attempts to instill fear.
Zulum urged residents to continue supporting the military with information that can help prevent attacks and strengthen ongoing operations.
He said the fight against terrorism requires a joint effort and called on communities to stay vigilant and report suspicious movements to security operatives.
“Yes, we have seen a series of attacks on our communities and on security forces,” Zulum said.
“But the worst is over, and we will continue working with our security forces by giving them the intelligence they need to bring this madness to an end.”
Zulum sympathizes with army
He also expressed sympathy to the Nigerian Army over the recent operational setbacks recorded in the theater.
He praised officers and soldiers for their sacrifice and described them as heroes who sometimes pay the ultimate price for the nation’s peace.
“On behalf of the government and the people of Borno State, I want to restate that we stand with the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Armed Forces,” he said.
“We do not take their sacrifice for granted.”
Waidi, while responding, assured that the Army headquarters will continue supplying logistics and other support needed by troops deployed in the Northeast.
He thanked Zulum for his constant support and described the governor as a reliable partner in the fight against insurgency.
“We appreciate Your Excellency for visiting us and for the support you have continued to give the Nigerian Army,” Waidi said.
He added that the Army remains committed to restoring peace across all affected communities.
