West cares more for Borno than Arab nations, says Zulum

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has said that western countries have shown more concern to the plights of Borno residents than Arab nations, following activities of Boko Haram terrorists in the state.

However, among the Arab nations, Palestine stood out by showing concern to Borno citizens, he asserted.

Zulum said this in Government House, Maiduguri, on Tuesday, when the Palestinian Ambassador to Nigeria, Saleh Fheied Saleh, visited him.

According to the governor, though Arab nations share the same religion and culture with most Borno citizens, most of them feel less concerned about the terrorism crippling the state.

His words: “I am a practical person. I work with the realities on the ground. In the face of our challenges over the years, we have received humanitarian support from the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, the United States, Canada, Japan and a host of others countries.”

The western countries, he added, have demonstrated concern and have made efforts to support traumatised citizens of Borno in many ways, especially on food and medicals.

“We even have indigenous Shuwa Arabs in Borno and this shows how our histories are tied. We have made several efforts, written and visited embassies of Arab nations, especially those that are rich and not dealing with any crisis, to no avail.

“Your visit, however, has renewed our hope and we are very grateful,” Zulum told the envoy.

Saleh informed the governor that Palestine was considering a plan to support the state in humanitarian activities.

His words: “There are a lot of Palestinian companies in Nigeria. They are willing to work with the Borno government, as they are ready to cooperate with you.

“We’re ready to help in any way we can.”

He noted that many Nigerians were residing in Palestine, particularly Borno indigenes, diligently serving the government and people of Palestine. He cited Fatima Barnawi, a Borno citizen in Palestine that served as minister and a police chief.