Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum yesterday assured troops of the 25 Task Force Brigade of Nigerian Army that the state government and people strongly support their relentless fight against Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents.
The governor who spoke at a front-line military base in Damboa, sympathised deeply with the officers and soldiers, acknowledging the immense personal sacrifices and hardwork they put in daily. He commended what he described as their “giant efforts and supreme sacrifices” in the ongoing battle to secure Borno State and protect civilians from the threats of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
The governor said, “On behalf of the government and good people of Borno State. We are here in Damboa purposely to commiserate with you over the recent setback which claimed the lives of some of your colleagues.
“It is an unfortunate event, and I want to extend my condolences to you and the families of all the officers and men of this brigade who lost their lives while discharging their duties. We pray to Almighty Allah to heal those injured in action as soon as possible.
“For those of you who are still alive and healthy, we pray that God will protect you, give you the vision and strength to carry out your duties effectively.
You have been doing very well. We have acknowledged your support and would like to commend you.
“I want to once again sympathise with you on behalf of the government and good people of Borno State, and to assure you that we will do everything possible within the resources available to us to support your mission and vision to end the crisis.”
He was received by the Brigade Commander of 25 Task Force Brigade, Brigadier General Igwe Patrick Omokeh.
The visit was part of Zulum’s tour of communities in southern Borno. Earlier in the day, the governor met with grieving families in Chibok, where he commiserated with them over the loss of lives and property, offering condolences and immediate relief to those that lost properties.
At the meeting, the governor announced concrete measures to protect lives and property. He noted that the state government, in collaboration with the federal government and security agencies, is implementing enhanced measures to protect vulnerable communities against future attacks.
