Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has called for immediate and strategic collaboration between the Federal and Borno State governments to confront the worsening security crisis in the Northeast.
Speaking to journalists after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, Governor Zulum said his visit was prompted by the deteriorating security conditions, particularly in Borno, which has seen a surge in insurgent attacks.
“I came to brief Mr. President on the security situation in the Northeast and particularly Borno State. Things are not going well in Northern Nigeria, especially in our region,” Zulum said.
The Governor, who recently concluded a week-long tour of hard-hit local government areas, said the trip provided him with a clearer understanding of the scale of the threat posed by insurgents.
“We are exploring ways to curb the persistent attacks on military formations and civilian areas. The state and federal governments must work closely to address these challenges,” he added.
Governor Zulum disclosed that discussions with the President included the potential deployment of forest guards to flush out insurgents from remote enclaves. He noted that Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters are increasingly using sophisticated weapons, underscoring the urgency of a coordinated federal response.
He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to prevent terrorist groups from taking control of any part of the state, stating: “No local government in Borno will be allowed to fall under the control of Boko Haram or ISWAP.”
Zulum also conveyed President Tinubu’s assurance of full federal support to restore stability in the region. “The President has pledged to do everything possible to bring the situation under control,” he said.