Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State raised an alarm on Tuesday about the escalating terrorist activities and the growing loss of military control in the state.
He warned that the ongoing violence, including daily killings, abductions, and the recent displacement of military formations, signals that Borno is gradually losing ground to Boko Haram insurgents.
Recent reports highlighted attacks on military posts in areas like Wajirko, Sabon Gari in Damboa, Wulgo in Gamboru Ngala, and Izge in Gwoza.
These assaults, which have led to the deaths of both civilians and security personnel, are a major concern for the stability of Borno and the North East region as a whole.
While acknowledging the support of the federal government and security agencies under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Zulum stressed the need for more substantial efforts, particularly through the use of advanced technology and better military resources, to combat the renewed attacks.
He highlighted the urgency of addressing security challenges in the Sahelian regions of Borno, which share borders with Chad, Niger, and Cameroon.
Speaking at the Special Expanded Security Meeting (ESM), Zulum reiterated that his administration had supported the military in its efforts to curb insurgency, which had led to a period of relative peace in recent years.
However, he expressed deep concern about the resurgence of terrorist activities in the region.
The Shehu of Borno also commented on the situation, praising security forces for their dedication, but noted that Boko Haram still holds control over areas such as Guzamala, Marte, Abbadam, and parts of Mobbar.
These regions are currently without civil authority, contributing to the ongoing crisis.
Additionally, the Shehu called on the federal government to prioritize the reconstruction of vital roads in the region, including the Biu-Damboa-Maiduguri, Maiduguri-Dikwa-Ngala, and Maiduguri-Monguno-Kukawa roads, which are in poor condition and have further isolated affected communities.
The meeting, which included security leaders such as Major General Abubakar Haruna, along with traditional rulers, emphasized the need for coordinated action to address the worsening security situation in Borno and its neighboring regions.