The Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, on Monday reaffirmed his determination to ensure that no Local Government Area in the state is taken over by Boko Haram or ISWAP terrorists.
He made this declaration while speaking to State House correspondents following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.
Governor Zulum explained that his visit was to brief the President on the security situation in the North-East, particularly in Borno State.
Last week, amid attacks on Marte town by insurgents, Zulum urged the Nigerian Government to adopt decisive measures to prevent the area from falling into the hands of Boko Haram or ISWAP militants.
On Monday, the governor noted that his earlier appeal had started yielding results.
He said, “Frankly, we appealed to the Federal Government, and within the past few days, the Nigerian Armed Forces have taken certain decisions aimed at containing the insurgency.
“I believe measures are being implemented. Most notably, the Federal Government is planning to establish a corps of forest guards.
“This could be a real game-changer. As previously highlighted, some Boko Haram and ISWAP members possess highly sophisticated weapons.
“I believe the Federal Government is working to address this. The President has assured me that all necessary steps will be taken to control the situation, and I trust that concrete action will follow.”
Zulum further emphasised his administration’s ongoing efforts: “As the Governor of Borno State, I will not relent in building community resilience and mobilising local volunteers to support the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces. So far, so good.
“A few days ago, I made it clear that no Local Government Area will be allowed to fall into the hands of Boko Haram or ISWAP.
“That must not happen. I call on the Nigerian Armed Forces, civilian authorities, and all relevant stakeholders to rise to the challenge and defend our territories.
“With the support of the military, insha’Allah, not a single LGA will be surrendered to insurgents.”