The Nation Newspaper

Tag: boko haram

  • Treason!

    Treason!

    • Service (wo)men that sell arms to terrorists deserve the stiffest penalty under the law

    It is trite and clear: soldiers that sell legal arms to bandits, terrorists and insurgents know that is tantamount to high treason.  They should take whatever comes their way — death sentence or life imprisonment.

    Even critical pillars of the civil society — as this newspaper that always maintains a philosophical opposition to death sentences — may just have to re-assess their stand in this particular case.  Service rules call.  Besides, it’s high state security.

    Indeed, it is the meanest form of treachery:  to be trained by the state, at premium costs; and sworn to a strict oath of allegiance, yet turn your back against both.  High treason, indeed.

    It’s the most serious strain of lack of love for one’s country; and crass irreverence for its institutions, which must be ruthlessly punished.

    Major Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, the general officer commanding (GOC), 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and sector commander of Operation Fasan Yamma tackling banditry and allied terror in the North West, just announced that soldiers convicted of collaborating with bandits or terrorists would face severe penalties.

    “Severe penalties”, in this case, mean either a death sentence or a life imprisonment.  Here, the military high command has our endorsement.  This is because this proposed penalty is right and just.  Such high-voltage sabotage is a clear danger to all.

    Besides, traitors within the security system deserve the stiffest strictures under the law.  The only proviso is that the trial of such should also be finically fair and just.

    Read Also: CDS Musa calls for border fencing to curb terrorism, transborder crimes

    Still, the question is why is the military just proposing these measures now?  Shouldn’t such have been routine, to be applied at the ready, given how condemnable such acts are?

    It’s a legitimate question.  But the military too might have a legitimate answer: chances of selling state arms to terrorists and insurgents are a very recent possibility.  Until the first eight years of the current 4th Republic, Boko Haram terrorism was inconceivable. 

    A segment of the Borno political elite armed thugs to muscle elections, between 1999 and 2007.  But it took the murder, in police custody in Maiduguri in July 2009, of Mohammed Yusuf, the thugs’ leader, for the angry band that felt cheated, to morph into Boko Haram terrorists.

    The banditry crisis in the North West would come even far later, with the bungling of the crisis between Fulani herders (complaining of industrial-scale cattle rustling) and Hausa farmers (scoffing against herder murder and violence).  That bungling turned banditry into a catastrophe, in the hitherto tranquil North West, even years after the North East had convulsed in Boko Haram terrorism.

    This twin-catastrophe could have fuelled alleged cases of service (wo)men trading  sacred arms and ammo,  with terrorists and bandits, for the quick buck.  It’s a very unfortunate development.  But nobody can blame the military for equally stiff measures to quell it.  Better late, they say, than never.

    Gen. Ajose just reported the progress made on the Fasan Yamma front, particularly checkmating the criss-crossing of the Lakurawa terror group — a Boko Haram wannabe — from Niger Republic into Nigeria, and vice-versa.  He also reported the smashing of Lakurawa camps in Sokoto and Kebbi states.  That is great news!   Whatever the military needs to sustain these successes should be done.

    Still, there is the question of the alleged misuse of social media by troops on the terror front.  Such, by hurting soldiers, have often put the Nigerian military in bad light, with troops casting their commanding officers as selfish and uncaring, luxuriating in comfort, while throwing the troops in harm’s way.  That does not justify the misuse of social media by troops and those culpable should desist, or they could face summary dismissal.

    But the military too loses nothing by probing into the truth or otherwise of these reports, though from unconventional channels.  That way, it would prove itself worthy of taking seriously, the welfare of troops under its care. 

    Besides, it would be prevention being better than cure.  If troops are well cared for under service rules, then the tendency of social media deviancy would be greatly reduced.  That could also avert the illicit sale of arms and ammo to anarchists.

  • We’re dealing with resurgence of Boko Haram in northeast – FG

    We’re dealing with resurgence of Boko Haram in northeast – FG

    The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has linked the recent resurgence of Boko Haram attacks in the North-East, particularly in Borno State, to the group’s renewed efforts to destabilise countries across the Sahel region, including Nigeria, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic.

    Speaking to journalists in Kaduna on Tuesday at the end of his two-day working visit to military institutions in the state, the minister assured Nigerians that the Federal Government is actively tackling the threat. 

    He noted that the Nigerian Armed Forces have gained momentum in the last two weeks and neutralised a significant number of insurgents.

    During his visit, the minister toured key military sites including the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Permanent Site and the Postgraduate School at the old site, where he inspected ongoing projects and interacted with senior officers. 

    He also visited Buffalo Engineering Technical Services (BET) and the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna.

    Addressing the continued attacks in parts of the country despite gains made against banditry in the North-West, Badaru explained that each security challenge varies in nature. 

    He cited the situation in Benue as predominantly communal, driven by farmer-herder clashes, which requires a non-kinetic approach.

    “We are working on resolving these conflicts by engaging communities and ensuring herders remain within designated grazing areas,” he said. “We are making progress in both providing security and preventing further violence.”

    “In the North East, most especially Borno state, we have seen the resurgence of Boko Haram that translates to what is happening on the Sahel today. If you are following what is happening in Niger, Burkina-Faso and Mali, you will see that these attacks have heightened everywhere.

    “There is a renewed vigor by the insurgents to destabilize the Sahel, we are doing a lot to curtail them and if you will do justice to us, in the past one or two weeks, you will see that the armed forces is gaining momentum and attacking and eliminating them and the serial attacks to soldiers camps has reduced to the barest minimum.

    “The troops are doing wonderfully well, its a new threat and we are tackling it, we will fight it and normalcy will return by the special grace of God and your prayers,” he assured.

    He however expressed delight that, with the support of the Armed Forces, the Federal and State governments, through the application of both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, normalcy has returned to communities in Birni Gwari and other parts of Kaduna State, as markets are open and traffic is flowing in and out unhindered. 

    Speaking on his to the military institutions, the Defence Minister expressed satisfaction, saying that, with efforts of the institutions in Research and Development, Nigeria will soon be self-sufficient in military equipment.

    According to him, “the institutions are doing very good job and they are also carrying the instruction of Mr. President in deep research so that we will eventually self-sufficient in our military requirement including the platforms and the equipment we need to execute the military functions.

    Read Also: Boko Haram backed by political elites to undermine Tinubu, Orji Kalu alleges

    “I believe they are doing very well in research, we have seen the new innovations that they doing ranging from MWRAPS, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV’s) and other equipment that are really needed by the armed forces. He noted that the production of military hardware locally means the country is moving from import to self-reliance, we are producing these equipment locally.

    “We have seen also the workshop, most of the damages to the Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle, also known as MRAP vehicle, you have seen are being repaired there and we are doing very well in maintenance, new developments and new research. We have also seen the new buffalo MRAPs and other equipment they built which is really commendable,” he said.

    On training of military officers, the Minister said, training is critical to any development especially in the armed forces, assuring that, the Federal Government will continue to support the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to train the Cadets and turnout very good and highly committed officers from the academy.

    Earlier, the Commandant, NDA, Major General Abdul-Khalifa Ibrahim commended the Federal Government for providing the necessary resources and upgrading the academy’s infrastructure.

    He also expressed appreciation for the exemplary leadership of the Honourable Minister of Defence.

  • Senate seeks Military base in Adamawa amid Boko Haram attacks

    Senate seeks Military base in Adamawa amid Boko Haram attacks

    The Senate on Wednesday urged the federal government to establish a military base in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State to check rising insecurity in the state.

    This resolution of the Senate was sequel to the consideration and adoption of a motion titled: “Resurgence of Boko Haram Activities in Hong and Gombi Local Government Areas, Adamawa and other North-East States” sponsored by Senator Aminu Abbas (PDP-Adamawa.

    Abbas, in his lead debate, highlighted the troubling spike in attacks by the extremist group.

    The Senate, while commending the efforts of security agencies, emphasised the need for additional military reinforcement.

    “We need a full-fledged military base in Hong to support existing personnel and repel further attacks,” Abbas said.

    Recent violent incidents across Adamawa lend urgency to the Senate’s plea. On February 25, 2025, Kwapre and Zah communities were attacked—houses torched, schools destroyed, and civilians injured.

    Barely two months later, on April 15, Banga and Lar were also hit, with five lives lost and churches and homes burned. On April 26, a fresh assault on Kwapre left 11 local vigilantes dead.

     The most recent attack on May 16 in Kulda claimed 16 lives, with over 90 percent of houses, including places of worship, razed.

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    “Even Mayo Ladde in Gaya ward was not spared,” Abbas said.

    “Six were killed there. Gombi LGA has also come under fire; four people were killed on January 17, and a hunter was murdered on February 17.”

    In light of the recurring assaults, the Senate also directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide immediate relief to affected communities.

    Senator Abbas, in presenting the motion, expressed concern over how the renewed wave of violence is crippling local economies.

    “Thousands have been displaced. People can no longer farm or trade as they used to,” he said. “The resurgence is not limited to Adamawa alone. Borno and Yobe are also affected.”

    Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, commended the military for their past efforts, saying, “At one time, two-thirds of local governments in Borno and Yobe were under Boko Haram control. But due to political will and military resilience, the territories were recovered.”

    He warned, however, that the insurgency is making a dangerous comeback. “Just last week, one of our military bases was attacked and five soldiers were killed. They even carted away military equipment,” Monguno lamented.

    In a particularly emotional moment, he added, “Mr. President, Distinguished Senators, there was a time I could not visit my hometown even in the wildest of my dreams. Today, I sleep there with both eyes closed—but this peace is under threat again.”

    He also revealed disturbing new developments: “Just two days ago, Boko Haram attacked Kukawa and Baga in my constituency. In one community, they killed 23 people; in another, 30. It was reportedly due to a rivalry between factions, with one accusing locals of paying allegiance to a rival group.”

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his closing remarks, stressed the need for constant alertness. “There must be continual vigilance because, as you said, whenever the military appears to relax, these groups strike again,” he warned.

    He added, “Our borders remain porous. Many of these attackers are not even Nigerians. They retreat, regroup, and cross back in to wreak havoc. We must remain prepared.”

  • Boko Haram’s audacity

    Boko Haram’s audacity

    • Allegations that they seized heavy military equipment and killed some soldiers deserve to be probed

    A House of Representatives member from Plateau State, Yusuf Gagdi, a few days ago raised the alarm that Nigeria’s security which has been a challenge in the last two decades is even more dire, given the resurgence of the Boko Haram terrorists, especially in the North Eastern states of Borno and Yobe. He alleged that there was a fire incident at the 127 Battalion Armoury in Giwa Barracks which tragically led to the loss of huge military weapons now believed to be in the possession of the terrorists.

    This allegation was made when the lawmakers were discussing the increasing threat from the Boko Haram terrorists, just as Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State recently cried out to the Federal Government for help. After what has seemed like a temporary reprieve, many villages in the North East and North West are again under attack by various terrorist groups.

    Security issues are some of the most sensitive issues in any nation. They must be handled with utmost carefulness, precision and professionalism. The military and security agencies must be accountable. They are the ones that are constitutionally charged with security matters in the country.

    In some other democracies, the National Assembly would have urgently invited the security chiefs to give an insight into the allegations which are as scary as they are outrageous. If it is confirmed that the terrorists were able to access the Nigerian armoury and carted away heavy military equipment, including armoured vehicles, then the die is cast. While we believe there might be some exaggerations, there is always a fire before any smoke. The truth must be said without endangering the security intelligence.

    Read Also: EFCC hands over 753 housing units seized from ex-CBN Gov to ministry

    But an incident like this, no matter how minimal the damage, is extremely dangerous for national security. How could terrorists have so overwhelmed our trained military in such a scandalous way? Boko Haram has caused too much damage already; to now lose about a trillion naira worth of equipment as being alleged is not just scandalous but a blight on the country’s territorial integrity.

    How fortified are our military bases? What are the fire and other security alerts available to the military bases? Security has gone beyond talks and conferences; governments are deploying digital and AI equipment to secure their countries and Nigeria is not too poor to deploy same. The government must take action to, again, decimate all forms of terrorists from all parts of the country. Their activities have impacted severely on the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians, with widespread poverty and food insecurity as proof.

    We are even shocked that the Boko Haram terrorists seemed to have recalibrated and are now more powerful than before. They seem to be gaining more grounds in Borno, as more villages are reportedly capitulating under their attacks. Governor Zulum has been going to the affected communities, pleading for the Federal Government’s increased support. The destruction to lives and economic and social activities in the state can only deepen the economic woes in the region and the country in general.

    While we ponder on these tragedies, it is apposite for the state and federal governments to re-evaluate the so-called ‘re-integration of ex-Boko Haram militants into the society. Has there been a social evaluation of their lives post ‘repentance’? Have the governments evaluated or researched into their lives since their initial rehabilitation? How much data is available to track their activities, some of which might include being informants to different groups?

    This is a time to reconsider the agitations for state police. It is obvious to all now that the federal police are too challenged to effectively protect Nigerians. Despite the perception that governors might abuse the system, we believe that if it has worked in many other countries, Nigeria can put a system in place to forestall abuses, which in any case now even happen to the federal police. Nigeria is one of the most under-policed countries in the world; this is why the military often steps in.

    While the country awaits full disclosure as regards the alleged seizure of our military equipment and possibly killing of some soldiers, we recommend that a thorough investigation be conducted so that future incidents can be prevented, as countries collaborate to stamp out terrorists globally. If there were cases of negligence or collaborations, the law should take its course. Our military and security agencies must live up to their reputation and oaths of office. Rag-tag non-state actors cannot hold Nigeria to ransom.

  • Senate seeks deployment of adequate troops to curb Boko Haram resurgence

    Senate seeks deployment of adequate troops to curb Boko Haram resurgence

    There is an urgent need to deploy more troops and military hardware to the Northeast, the Senate recommended yesterday.

    It said more men and advanced equipment are needed in Borno and Yobe states following a resurgence of attacks by Boko Haram terrorists.

    The Senate resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance titled: “The Resurgence of Boko Haram in Borno and Yobe states.”

    It was sponsored by the Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Monguno, and co-sponsored by Senators Mohammed Ali Ndume, Shehu Lawan, Musa Mustapha, Ahmad Lawan and Ibrahim Bomai.

    Monguno recalled that a few years ago, two-thirds of the local government areas in Borno were under the control of Boko Haram, but with the concerted efforts of the military and Civilian Joint Task Force, they were reclaimed.

    He noted that after relative peace was restored in Borno and Yobe, the military relocated its tactical command of operations to the Northwest to tackle kidnapping and banditry.

    The move, he pointed out, created room for the resurgence of terror activities in the Northeast.

    He recalled that on May 12, the insurgents attacked and killed over 12 soldiers in Marte town of Monguno.

    He added that early yesterday, Gajiram, the headquarters of Nganzai Local Government Area, was also attacked.

    Read Also: We will not go back to the dark days of Boko Haram, COAS assures Yobe

    Monguno said. “The insurgents have employed more modern technology, including the use of drones, to unleash attacks on villages and communities in the states.

    “The sect has resorted to planting Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) at strategic areas, which, when they explode, always result in high casualties, and obstruct vehicular movement.”

    He, therefore, called for the return of full military operations to Borno and Yobe states.

    “A strong presence of the military in the Northeast zone will effectively curb a resurgence of Boko Haram,” he said.

    Senators backed the motion and approved the prayers to deploy additional troops to the region.

    Borno Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the spate of attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP in parts of the state, including Maiduguri-Damboa Road, Marte, Chibok, Gwoza, Kala Balge, and other affected communities.

    The governor, in a statement by his spokesperson, Mr Dauda Iliya, sympathised with the victims’ families, including those affected by an Improvised Explosive Device  (IED) detonated on Monday along the Maiduguri-Damboa Road.

    Zulum said: “The IED attack claimed the lives of two staff members of the Damboa Local Education Authority who were reportedly en route to Maiduguri to sit for the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) examination.

    “Other casualties include military personnel and civilians who lost their lives in a recent resurgence of violence in the state.

    “These acts of terror are deeply condemnable.

    “The tragic loss of our education staff, gallant troops, and innocent civilians is a painful reminder of the challenges we continue to face.

    “I am more determined than ever to support the military, security agencies, and our volunteer forces in the fight to end terrorism and insurgency in our state.

    “The recent surge in attacks will not deter our resolve to tackle the scourge of the 16-year-long insurgency.

    “I urge the people of Borno to remain resilient and prayerful. This is a partial eclipse and we shall overcome it, Insha Allah,” he added.

    CDS hails troops in Northwest

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, commended troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA for their dedication in combating security challenges in the Northwest.

    He spoke during a Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) meeting at 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, Sokoto.

    Represented by Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole, Musa warned the troops against indiscipline and complacency in their activities.

    He urged them to remain vigilant and committed to civil-military cooperation at all levels, stressing the need to abide by stipulated regulations at all times.

    Also, Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Abubakar, urged troops to remain vigilant.

    He spoke while addressing troops during his operational visit to frontline troops in Katsina.

    Air Marshal Abubakar said: “We have achieved commendable milestones, but this is not the time to slow down. We must not rest on our laurels.

    “Now is the time to consolidate and intensify our air strikes against terrorists, insurgents, and bandits.

    “Nigerians can rest assured that we remain fully committed to our constitutional mandate.

    “We will continue to give our very best in defence of our nation.”

    North CAN seeks action on IDPs, others

    Also yesterday, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) warned against discriminatory actions that trigger attacks.

    The leaders met with security and intelligence agencies in Abuja.

    A communiqué signed by CAN’s 19 Northern states chairman, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, and Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, identified inflammatory religious messages as a major trigger of ethno-religious crises, calling for urgent sensitisation and regulation of religious preaching across faiths.

    CAN also decried the misuse of social media to spread falsehood and inciting content.

    It urged the government to equip security agencies with digital tracking tools to identify and prosecute offenders.

    The Christian body expressed concern over the increasing number of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

    It fears that failure to resettle and rehabilitate victims of violence could entrench a dangerous cycle of trauma and retribution.

    It lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the National Commission for Almajiris and Out-of-School Children but said its mandate should be expanded to include rehabilitation, conventional education, and adoption initiatives.

  • Senate seeks deployment of adequate troops to Northeast to curb Boko Haram resurgence

    Senate seeks deployment of adequate troops to Northeast to curb Boko Haram resurgence

    Worried about the resurgence of terrorist activities in Borno and Yobe States, the Senate on Tuesday called for urgent deployment of adequate troops to the Northeast.

    The Red Chamber added that the troops must be equipped with modern technology, and other necessary armaments to effectively address the resurgence of Boko Haram in the region.

    The resolution of the Senate followed its adoption of a motion of urgent national importance titled: “The Resurgence of Boko Haram in Borno and Yobe States” during plenary.

    The motion was sponsored by the Chief Whip of the Senate Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, and co-sponsored by Senators Mohammed Ali Ndume            , Shehu Kaka Lawan, Musa Mustapha, Ahmad Lawan        and Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai.

    Senator Monguno in his lead debate noted that a few years ago, two-thirds of the Local Government Areas in Borno State were under the control of Boko Haram, but with the concerted efforts of the military and civilian Joint Task Force, the areas were reclaimed, restoring freedom and liberty for the residents.

    He further noted that after relative peace was restored in Borno and Yobe States, the military relocated their tactical command of operations to the North West to address issues of kidnapping and banditry in the region.

    Read Also: Nigeria recorded 75,000 maternal deaths in 2023, says MRHC

    He recalled that on Monday 12 May, 2025 the insurgents attacked and killed more than 12 soldiers in Marte town of Monguno LGA and early this morning Gajiram the headquarter of Nganzai local government was also attacked, thus necessitating the reinforcement of military in the State.

    He expressed worry that the country is experiencing a resurgence of Boko Haram, marked by increased attacks by insurgents targeting communities, including those recently resettled, and regaining strength after years of conflict;

    Monguno said. “The insurgents have employed more modern technology, including the use of drones, to unleash attacks on villages and communities in the States;

    “The sect has resorted to planting Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) at strategic areas, which, when they explode, always result in high casualties, and obstruct vehicular movement.”

    He therefore called for the return of military operations in full force to Borno and Yobe States, with well equipped troops with the needed technology to counter the nefarious activities of insurgents.

    “A strong presence of the military in the North East zone will effectively curb a resurgence of Boko Haram,” he said.

    Senators in their contributions supported the motion and approval the prayers to deploy additional troops to the region.

    The Senate also resolved that the Senate Committee on Army and Air Force should ensure compliance to the resolution.

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  • Senate seeks deployment of adequate troops to northeast to curb Boko Haram resurgence

    Senate seeks deployment of adequate troops to northeast to curb Boko Haram resurgence

    Worried about the resurgence of terrorist activities in Borno and Yobe States, the Senate on Tuesday called for urgent deployment of adequate troops to the northeast.

    The red chamber added that the troops must be equipped with modern technology, and other necessary armaments to effectively address the resurgence of Boko Haram in the region.

    The resolution of the Senate followed its adoption of a motion of urgent national importance titled: “The Resurgence of Boko Haram in Borno and Yobe States” during plenary.

    The motion was sponsored by the Chief Whip of the Senate Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, and co-sponsored by Senators Mohammed Ali Ndume , Shehu Kaka Lawan, Musa Mustapha, Ahmad Lawan and Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai.

    Senator Monguno in his lead debate, noted that a few years ago, two-thirds of the Local Government Areas in Borno State were under the control of Boko Haram, but with the concerted efforts of the military and civilian Joint Task Force, the areas were reclaimed, restoring freedom and liberty for the residents.

    He further noted that after relative peace was restored in Borno and Yobe States, the military relocated their tactical command of operations to the North West to address issues of kidnapping and banditry in the region.

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    He recalled that on Monday 12 May, 2025 the insurgents attacked and killed more than 12 soldiers in Marte town of Monguno LGA and early this morning Gajiram the headquarter of Nganzai local government was also attacked, thus necessitating the reinforcement of military in the State.

    He expressed worry that the country is experiencing a resurgence of Boko Haram, marked by increased attacks by insurgents targeting communities, including those recently resettled, and regaining strength after years of conflict;

    Monguno said, “The insurgents have employed more modern technology, including the use of drones, to unleash attacks on villages and communities in the States;

    “The sect has resorted to planting Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) at strategic areas, which, when they explode, always result in high casualties, and obstruct vehicular movement.”

    He therefore called for the return of military operations in full force to Borno and Yobe States, with well equipped troops with the needed technology to counter the nefarious activities of insurgents.

    “A strong presence of the military in the North East zone will effectively curb a resurgence of Boko Haram,” he said.

    Senators in their contributions supported the motion and approval the prayers to deploy additional troops to the region.

    The Senate also resolved that the Senate Committee on Army and Air Force should ensure compliance to the resolution.

  • Northeast govs urge united front against Boko Haram resurgence

    Northeast govs urge united front against Boko Haram resurgence

    Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni has called for urgent and united action to tackle the resurgence of Boko Haram insurgency while charting a course toward economic self-reliance in Nigeria’s North East region.

    Speaking at the 11th meeting of the North East Governors’ Forum, which he hosted in Damaturu, Governor Buni welcomed his counterparts from Borno, Gombe, Adamawa, Taraba, and Bauchi states, as well as members of the National Assembly, development partners, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.

    He emphasised the region’s collective commitment to peace, progress, and development.

    Governor Buni acknowledged the forum’s history of promoting strong regional cooperation and stressed the importance of reviewing previous resolutions to develop effective strategies for shared challenges. He described the meeting as timely, especially in light of “the worrisome deployment of technology by the enemy” and renewed Boko Haram attacks in parts of the region.

    “This should be critically examined to create a stronger synergy between the state and Federal governments and security agencies, for a strategic and effective response,” Buni stated.

    He called for immediate measures to consolidate recent gains in peace, security, and socio-economic development. He also urged that resolutions from the forum be swiftly communicated to national security chiefs and relevant federal institutions to strengthen coordination.

    Governor Buni expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership during a period of national and regional challenges, and reaffirmed the North East Governors’ support for policies aimed at building a stronger, united, and prosperous Nigeria.

    Paying tribute to the sacrifices of the military, Civilian JTF, vigilante groups, and local hunters, Buni turned attention to the region’s economic future, stressing the need to reduce dependency on federal allocations by unlocking local economic potential.

    He stressed the importance of creating employment opportunities for the region’s youth to prevent their vulnerability to recruitment by terrorist and criminal organisations.

    Governor Buni passionately advocated for making agriculture attractive and profitable through the provision of necessary machinery, equipment, and inputs.

    He highlighted the region’s vast arable land and large population as key assets for achieving food sufficiency, food security, and economic prosperity.

    Read Also: The resurgence of Boko Haram

    Governor Buni, at the end of his address, expressed his appreciation to local and international development partners for their continued support in resettlement, reconstruction, and recovery efforts. He wished all participants fruitful deliberations and a memorable stay in Yobe State.

    In his remarks, the Chairman of the Northeast Governors forum, Prof Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State, also called for renewed action against the resurgence of the insurgency in the region.

    The Borno Governor was worried that the resurgence of the attacks could undermine the success recorded in the fight.

    “The re-emergence of insurgent attacks is alarming and could undermine the successes already recorded. I humbly suggest that the military revisit its strategy and adopt more offensive operations,” Zulum stated.

    The 11th North East Governors’ Forum meeting is expected to feature intense discussions and the formulation of concrete strategies to tackle the pressing security and economic challenges facing the region.

    The outcomes of the meeting will be closely watched as the North East seeks to build a more secure and prosperous future for its people.

  • The resurgence of Boko Haram

    The resurgence of Boko Haram

    Sir: The alarming resurgence of Boko Haram poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s stability and security. The recent spike in attacks, particularly in the Northeast, has not only resulted in tragic loss of life but has also aggravated the socio-economic challenges faced by the region.

    A recent report by Beacon Security outlines that in the first quarter of this year alone, Boko Haram carried out over 397 attacks in Borno State, leading to 514 deaths and 357 abductions. These statistics are not just mere numbers; they symbolize the real and ongoing suffering of the county’s families and communities. As the situation keeps taking different dimensions, the government need to act decisively to curb this threat.

    Boko Haram’s current phase of operations comes with a shift to kidnap-for-ransom, extortion through taxation and the use of digital tools for coordination and spreading propaganda. Historically, the group relied on conventional terror methods, including bombings and armed assaults. The present tactics of this group suggest a more sophisticated and financially motivated agenda. Reports indicate that Boko Haram has generated substantial financial resources—amounting to up to N1 billion since 2024—through these coerced payments. This approach not only augments the group’s operational capacity but also places an unbearable strain on already impoverished communities. Families that should be concentrating on rebuilding their lives are instead forced to divert their limited resources to meet these extortion demands.

    These extortion tactics extend beyond kidnappings, which have now intensified against local economic activities, coercing traders, fishermen, farmers, and herders to pay exorbitant fees just to carry out their daily tasks. This “taxation” system is perhaps one of the most insidious aspects of Boko Haram’s new strategy. This allows the group to maintain control over territory and instils a climate of fear among the populace, further destabilizing the region. Those who pay are issued “tax receipts” that they must present at a moment’s notice, or else face severe repercussions. This is not just a criminal outfit; it is an organized regime that thrives on intimidation and extortion, effectively creating a parallel system that undermines legitimate governance.

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    The federal government cannot afford to overlook this alarming trend. It must take urgent and comprehensive action to address the challenges posed by the Boko Haram revival. A multi-faceted approach is essential for curtailing the group’s operations and restoring peace to affected communities. The government must ramp up military operations against Boko Haram through deploying more troops and advanced equipment to areas where the group is particularly active, such as the Lake Chad region, southern Borno, and northern Yobe.

    The government must also work towards cutting off Boko Haram’s financial lifelines. This is a critical effort to disrupt the ransom economy and taxation systems that the group exploits. The government needs to provide innovative solutions to counteract the group’s illicit funding mechanisms.

    Addressing the growing digital sophistication of Boko Haram is an urgent necessity. The group has increasingly turned to technology to enhance its operations, utilizing high-speed internet, drones, and social media to disseminate propaganda. The government must collaborate with tech companies and international partners to mitigate Boko Haram’s access to these digital tools. By disrupting their online capabilities, we not only weaken their propaganda efforts but also inhibit their recruitment strategies, which are often aimed at vulnerable youth seeking purpose and identity.

    Building trust between the government and local populations is critical. The government needs to make its citizens believe every step it takes to address their challenges. Many communities feel abandoned by the state and this disenchantment often fuels support for insurgent groups. Grievances can be addressed through dialogue, and inclusive governance can foster a more resilient society capable of standing against Boko Haram’s influence.

    The international community, too, has a role to play in supporting Nigeria’s fight against Boko Haram. Terrorism is a global issue, and the implications of Boko Haram’s resurgence extend beyond Nigeria’s borders. Collaborative efforts and regional integration can significantly enhance Nigeria’s capabilities in countering this threat.  With millions of people are affected, and addressing the pressing needs of internally displaced persons must be a priority for both the government and international partners.

    The scars left by Boko Haram’s years of violence are still fresh in our collective memory. We have won the war. It’s time to regain the peace and make our communities safer for the citizens.

    •Isah Aliyu Chiroma,<aliyuisahchiroma29@gmail.com>

  • Boko Haram hits another community in Adamawa

    Boko Haram hits another community in Adamawa

    Suspected Boko Haram terrorists have hit a community in Hong, a local government area in the northern part of Adamawa State attacked by the same sect only about three days earlier.

    Witnesses said t the terrorists stormed Dabna, a village in Yadul/Dugwaba District of the Hong LGA, between 10pm on Friday April 18  and 3am Saturday, bearing guns and improvised explosive devices.

    They burnt houses and other properties and then left with food items which they looted.

    According to sources, Garaha, a larger community three kilometres away from Dabna, would very probably have been included in the attack but for military, mobile police operatives and vigilantes who mobilised to repel the attackers.

    The invasion of Dabna came barely three days after Bangah, a suburb of Garaha close to Sambisa forest of neighbouring Borno State, was attacked.

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    Seven people were killed and several houses and cars destroyed in that attack on Bangah.

    About the fresh attack, an angry source who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the people of Dabna and surrounding communities have started to feel that they had informants among them encouraging Boko Haram incursion, considering that the communities have often fallen into the hands of Boko Haram in recent years.

    A prominent citizen of Dabna, Dr Raymond Chidama, who is the Adamawa State secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said the attacks have reduced his birthplace to a ghost of itself.