Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has said that the about 17-year Boko Haram insurgency that has claimed many lives and property is over, following the flushing out of terrorists from the Sambisa Forest and Lake Chad region.

Zulum made the declaration on Thursday evening in a state-wide broadcast to the people at the Government House, Maiduguri, the state capital

He said: “I address you today at a moment that requires both our solemn reflection and our resolute unity among the affected communities.

“Fellow citizens, the recent resurgence of insecurity in parts of our dear state over the past few weeks is deeply concerning.

“As the Chief Security Officer (CSO), let me assure you that the overall security environment, which was tested, remains under control, and we are doing everything possible to protect lives and property.”

The governor added that over the past seven years, the state government has worked tirelessly to restore peace and prosperity to the great land and rebuild the state.

Zulum further revealed: “Within this period, we responded with prompt positive actions on every occasion,
We have not allowed the dark dreams of the wayward ones to take root,” stating that his administration fostered hope and resilience among the communities affected by the over a decade-long conflict.”

Zulum continued in the broadcast that, “Through a combination of consultations and collective planning, with the strong support of our security agencies and the civilian JTF, the Almighty God has helped us achieve some measure of success and peace.

Regarding the recent resurgence of multiple attacks in the state, the governor noted: “We do not believe that the decrease in past attacks signals the end of the insurgency.

“No, it is not. In fact, at the leadership level, we are very conscious of the fact that much more needs to be done to permanently address the root of this madness and the menace of illogical attacks among our peace-loving people.

The declaration that terrorism is over in the state,he said: “The recent spike in activity by these criminal elements is a direct consequence of the sustained and aggressive military operations being conducted across the theatre of war.

The counter-terrorism operations have massiively dislodged the criminals, forcing them to flee and seek respite by infiltrating our communities.

“However, I want to reassure you that the worst days are over. as we have been constantly assessing the security situation, with a robust, coordinated response is already in motion.

He added that these cowardly elements who seek to disturb peace will obtain no sanctuary in the state, warning that the state government will deal decisively with their recent resurgence of destruction of lives and property.

Besides the state government’s security measures, Zulum added:”Fellow citizens, this fight is not the responsibility of the military alone, It is a collective effort.

“I must emphasize the importance of cordial, close collaboration with our military,” stating that they are here to protect us, and they need our eyes and our ears.

The governor extend his deepest sympathies to the families of the gallant troops, security personnel and the volunteer forces, who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

“My heart also goes out to every civilian whose life has been disrupted by this situation.

“Your resilience is the bedrock of our state, and the power of prayer in unison is a weapon no enemy can withstand,” said Zulum in the broadcast.

He also issued a warning to any individual or group that aids or collaborates with these criminals.

He said: “To those who feed them with information, shelter them and their sympathisers, and provide logistical support, your time is up.

“You are not patriots; you are enemies of the state. You will be hunted down and made to face the full wrath of the law. Your actions betray our collective peace, and we will no longer tolerate them.”

He commend the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for releasing the necessary funding to the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJT) and several other military operations across different theatres in the country.

He noted that the President’s support is vital to the sustainability of the ongoing military operations.

Zulum extend his appreciation to the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, who represented the President for the sympathy visit over the recent unfortunate incident that claimed 23 lives.

On the forthcoming general elections in 2027, he said: “My dear people, as the political season intensifies, tensions may rise. But we must align our political interests with the stark realities of our security situation, including ongoing threats from insurgent groups and the need for community stability.

“Let us not allow politics to undermine the hard-earned peace we have built.

“I therefore call on all aspirants and their supporters to prioritise the greater interests of Borno State above their personal ambitions.

“Since assuming office in 2019, I have been fair, just, and inclusive in my dealings with the entire political class. My loyalty to His Excellency, the Vice President, need not be overemphasized.

“As a leader, I have embraced all and sundry. I have never betrayed the trust of members of the national and state assemblies, as well as political office holders of Borno extraction, at the state or national level.”

He called on all political actors to be wary of elements seeking to exploit the current security situation to create unnecessary political instability.

Speaking on who to succeed him in 2027,, he said:”As we look to the future and choose a new leader for our state, I urge all citizens to pray fervently for a worthy successor. Let me remind us that power belongs to God and He grants it to whom He wills.

“As we approach the end of Ramadan, I call on all residents, both Christians and Muslims, to use this last hour of fasting and Sallah celebration to intensify prayers for peace, unity, and stability in our state and the country at large.

“Consequently, let me use this opportunity to encourage citizens of the state to be more vigilant. As we gather to break our fast toward the end of 2026 Ramadan, let us pay attention to our environment. Let us identify strangers, report suspicious movements to security agencies, and take the necessary precautions,” said Zulum.