Borno Resettles 300,000 Former Boko Haram Members: An International Update
The governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, revealed that the state has rehabilitated at least 300,000 former Boko Haram members who have renounced their affiliations over the last three years.
Governor Zulum disclosed this information when he met with the Minister of Defense, Badaru Abubakar; the Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa; along with several high-ranking military officials who were visiting Maiduguri.
Borno State has welcomed over 300,000 former Boko Haram members who have renounced their affiliation in the past three years; however, not all of these individuals were actually combatants," he stated. "Among them are also many farmers.
Although he recognized the work being done by the Nigerian armed forces, the governor pointed out that various obstacles still impede an efficient battle against terrorism and urged for immediate assistance.
He highlighted the significance of integrating both physical operations and strategic measures in current anti-terrorism initiatives.
"Human resources are crucially important. Although I understand the challenges faced by the Nigerian Army—given that you currently have personnel deployed across various regions of Nigeria including the Northeast, Northwest, North Central, and Southern areas—I am cognizant of your restrictions," he stated.
“However, regarding the northeast area, the Nigerian Army ought to explore the option of deploying additional well-trained personnel. There is a distinction between Boko Haram, ISWAP, and criminals.”
Governor Zulum also cautioned about the increasing outside assistance being provided to terrorist organizations active in the area.
ISWAP and Boko Haram are international terrorist groups receiving global support. Given our vulnerable borders, these organizations continue to penetrate through the Sahel region, posing our main challenge.
He highlighted the crucial role of stabilizing the Sahel region in order to attain enduring peace throughout Nigeria.
If the Sahel remains insecure, Nigeria cannot achieve stability either. Therefore, we must strengthen the security conditions in the Sahel with the aim of resolving the nationwide crisis.
The governor additionally requested improved aerial resources to address the growing threats from terrorist organizations.
We require aerial backup. I understand the limitations you encounter when trying to access fighter helicopters and such, but attack helicopters play a crucial role in these regions, and so do unmanned drones.
He pointed out the latest events, stating: "The assault that occurred in Wulgo, conducted by ISWAP and Boko Haram—according to an official report, this operation involved armed drones. These devices were used to strike the MNJTF (Multinational Joint Task Force)."
This is the moment for the Nigerian armed forces to step up once more and acquire advanced drones along with anti-drone technology to finally eliminate these issues.
Governor Zulum characterized the circumstance as a significant impediment not just for Borno State but for the whole Northeast area.
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