Zulum Tells COAS “Worst of Boko Haram Is Over,” Urges Continued Civil Support
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum said on Wednesday that the most difficult phase of the Boko Haram insurgency is now behind them, speaking during a high-level meeting with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt‑Gen. Shuaibu Waidi, in Maiduguri.
Zulum acknowledged that recent attacks by the terrorist group have caused concern, but he insisted that the overall security situation has significantly improved compared to past years.
“Yes, we have witnessed a series of attacks on our communities … but the worst is over,” the governor said, urging residents to keep working with the military by providing intelligence.
He added that although “we grieve any single setback,” he is optimistic about the future: “The trajectory is towards peace, and we are committed to sustaining it.”
Zulum also paid tribute to the members of the Nigerian Army, calling their officers and soldiers “heroes” for their sacrifice in protecting the state.
He assured that the Borno State government stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the armed forces: “We will not take their sacrifice for granted.”
In response, Lt‑Gen. Waidi promised that the Army’s headquarters would continue to provide the necessary logistics and resources to troops deployed in Borno. He also commended Governor Zulum for his support, saying the military values the partnership with the state government.
Zulum’s remarks come amid a broader push for stability in the North-East, as the government continues to press for improved cooperation between civilians and security agencies to prevent future attacks.