Zulum to residents: Worst days are over

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has reassured residents that the worst days are over, despite a fresh wave of attacks in parts of the state.

In a statewide broadcast on Thursday, Zulum acknowledged rising concerns over renewed insecurity but stressed that the situation had not overwhelmed security forces. He said coordinated efforts were already underway to protect lives and restore calm.

According to the governor, the recent surge in violence is linked to intensified military offensives that have displaced insurgents from their strongholds. He explained that pressure from these operations had forced fighters to disperse and infiltrate civilian communities.

“There is an ongoing, aggressive and sustained operation across the theatre, and these operations have dislodged these criminals from their strongholds and made them flee and infiltrate our communities,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Zulum expressed confidence in the ability of security agencies to contain the threat. He noted that sustained collaboration among the military and other forces remained critical to maintaining stability.

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Reflecting on progress made over the past seven years, the governor pointed to improvements in security and reconstruction across previously affected communities. However, he cautioned that earlier gains did not signify the complete end of the insurgency, emphasising that underlying issues still needed to be addressed.

“The worst days are over. There is robust coordination in motion. These criminal elements that wish to disrupt our peace will find no sanctuary,” he said, assuring residents that a strong response was underway to counter the latest developments.

Zulum also called for increased cooperation between citizens and security agencies. He urged residents to remain alert and share credible information, particularly during the ongoing Ramadan period and the upcoming Eid celebrations.

He warned that individuals found supporting insurgents — whether through information, shelter or logistics — would face strict legal consequences.

The governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for backing military operations, including funding support for the Multinational Joint Task Force. He also acknowledged Vice President Kashim Shettima for his recent condolence visit to the state.

Zulum further praised the Nigerian Armed Forces, the police and local volunteer groups for their continued sacrifices in maintaining security.

On the political front, he cautioned against exploiting the security situation for personal or partisan gain, urging political actors to conduct themselves responsibly as the state approaches another election cycle. He stressed that peace and unity must take precedence over ambition.

The governor concluded by appealing to residents across all religious backgrounds to pray for lasting peace in Borno and Nigeria, expressing confidence that the state would not relapse into widespread insurgent control.