Governor Zulum and Gen. Waidi at the meeting in Maiduguri on Wednesday
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State on Wednesday met with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Shuaibu Waidi over challenges of Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgency in the state.
A statement from the Government House Press Unit said Zulum, who observed the recent surge in attacks by the terrorists, noted that the worst of insurgency is over.
Zulum in his remarks at the meeting further explained his statement by reflecting on the more escalated security situation the state had previously endured.
He stated that compared to the peak of the crisis years ago, the current security landscape, despite recent setbacks, shows significant improvement.
“Yes, we have witnessed a series of attacks on our communities and the security forces, but the worst is over; we shall continue to collaborate and provide the needed intelligence to our security forces to bring this madness to an end.
“The frequency and scale of attacks on our communities then were overwhelming. Today, while we grieve any single setback, we can also see that the worst is indeed behind us. The trajectory is towards peace, and we are committed to sustaining it,” Zulum said.
Zulum also called on the people of Borno to continue to cooperate and support the military and other security agencies.
He emphasised that the war against terrorism requires a collective effort, urging residents to be vigilant and provide timely intelligence to security operatives to prevent attacks and ensure a lasting return to peace in the state.
Zulum commiserated with the Nigerian Army over the recent tactical setbacks across the theatre.
He praised the sacrifice and bravery of the officers and soldiers, describing them as heroes who, in some cases, pay the ultimate price for the nation’s security.
“On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I wish to reiterate that we stand with the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Armed Forces. We will not take their sacrifice for granted,” the governor said.
Also speaking, the COAS while giving the assurance of the Army headquarters to provide necessary logistics to the troops, commended Governor Zulum for his support to the armed forces.
“I want to most sincerely, on behalf of the officers and men of the Nigerian Army, extend our appreciation to His Excellency for visiting us at a time like this. We appreciate your support in Borno.”
“We have confidence in our society here in the theatre and from the Army headquarters, we will provide all the necessary resources needed to ensure they achieve their mission”, Waidi said.
The meeting was attended by the Acting Chief of Staff, Dr Babagana Mustapha Mallumbe, Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, Special Adviser on Security, Brig. Gen. Abdullaho Ishaq (Rtd) and other senior government officials.
