The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has criticized the Nigerian military for failing to adequately protect the state’s border communities.
He expressed deep concern that this security gap has left residents vulnerable to repeated assaults by Boko Haram insurgents.
During a visit on Sunday to Kirawa, a community within the Gwoza local government area, Governor Zulum highlighted the ongoing security challenges faced by the area.
Kirawa has recently endured multiple attacks, prompting many inhabitants to seek refuge across the border in Cameroon.
The governor appealed to the Federal Government and military leadership to station troops in critical border towns such as Kirawa, Wulgo, Baga, Damasak, and Malam Fatori to curb further violence.
Zulum revealed that he had previously alerted military officials about the risks of leaving these border settlements unprotected, but regretted that his warnings were largely ignored.
However, in response to the persistent attacks, he convened a meeting with the theatre commander of Operation Hadin Kai, the General Officer Commanding the Nigerian Army’s 7th Division, and the Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF). They collectively agreed to deploy soldiers to Kirawa in the near future.
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“Kirawa was founded approximately seven years ago with assistance from Cameroonian troops, but unfortunately, insurgents displaced these forces several months ago,” the governor explained.
“I have formally informed the Nigerian military about the dangers posed by leaving these border towns without adequate security.”
“Communities like Wulgo, Kirawa, Baga, Damasak, and Malam Fatori are strategically important and must be safeguarded. Sadly, my appeals for their protection have not been met with the urgency required.”
“Recently, terrorists attacked Kirawa, destroying property and infrastructure. Thankfully, only two lives were lost, but several homes, vehicles, and heavy machinery were set ablaze.”
“We have all agreed that the Nigerian Army will deploy troops to Kirawa as soon as possible.”
“Additionally, we are committed to strengthening our civilian Joint Task Force and vigilante groups by equipping them with necessary tools to defend the community.”
“Crucially, we are exploring the acquisition of advanced technological resources to enhance security across the region,” Governor Zulum assured.
“I have formally alerted the Nigerian military about the dangers of living in this town without security. Unfortunately, my request was not given the attention it deserved.”
Governor Zulum highlights how the military’s neglect has exposed Borno’s border communities to Boko Haram attacks… pic.twitter.com/dhECdclF63
— News Central TV (@NewsCentralTV) October 4, 2025