Table of Contents
- Governor's Appeal to the Armed Forces
- Concerns Over Terrorist Hideouts
- Addressing Insurgency and Terrorism
- Call for Enhanced Surveillance
- Proposal for a Strategic Meeting
- Appreciation for Support
- Air Force's Commitment
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, on Monday, urged the Nigerian Armed Forces to promptly initiate a coordinated offensive against terrorist strongholds in Tumbus, Mandara Hills, and the Sambisa Game Reserve.
Zulum made this request during a visit from the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, at the Government House in Maiduguri.
The governor identified the Tumbus Islands in the Lake Chad Basin as significant hideouts for Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, expressing his alarm over the lack of a comprehensive joint military operation to eliminate threats in the region.
“I would like to bring to your attention that a thorough military operation involving the Navy, Air Force, and Army, specifically aimed at clearing the Tumbus area, has yet to be conducted,” Zulum stated.
“If we aim to reduce insurgency and terrorism in Nigeria, we must tackle the issues we face in Lake Chad. This area has become a sanctuary for the terrorists, which is currently our primary concern.”
He further noted that the Sambisa Game Reserve and the Mandara Hills are two additional active enclaves that necessitate a coordinated effort to dismantle.
Zulum also called on the Nigerian Air Force to deploy more Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to the North-East region to enhance surveillance and precision strikes.
The governor additionally suggested a high-level strategic meeting of military command and control structures in Maiduguri to reevaluate operational strategies against the insurgency.
Zulum expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing support to the military and requested increased funding to improve the procurement of modern equipment necessary for counter-insurgency operations.
Earlier, Air Marshal Aneke recognized the geostrategic significance of Borno, emphasizing that its borders and proximity to the Lake Chad Basin are crucial for securing the North-East and managing cross-border threats.
He mentioned that the Nigerian Air Force is focusing on operational readiness, integration with ground troops, and the effective use of airpower to support stabilization efforts throughout the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main concerns regarding terrorist activities in Borno State?
The main concerns include the presence of terrorist hideouts in areas like Tumbus, Mandara Hills, and the Sambisa Game Reserve, which have not been adequately targeted by military operations.
What actions did Governor Zulum propose to combat terrorism?
Governor Zulum proposed a coordinated military operation involving the Navy, Air Force, and Army, increased deployment of UAVs for surveillance, and a strategic meeting to reassess military approaches.
