Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State on Saturday addressed troops of the 25 Task Force Brigade of the Nigerian Army, declaring the state’s and its people’s support for their relentless fight against Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents.
The governor, speaking at a frontline military base in Damboa, sympathised with the officers and soldiers, acknowledging the immense personal sacrifice and hard work they put in daily.
He commended what he described as their “giant effort and supreme sacrifice” in the ongoing battle to secure Borno State and protect civilians from the threats of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
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Zulum 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 and give you the vision and strength to carry out your duties effectively. You have been doing very well; we have acknowledged your support and commend you.
“I assure you that we will do everything possible within the resources available to us to support your mission and vision to end the crisis.”
The governor was received by Igwe Patrick Omokeh, Commander, 25 Task Force Brigade.
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 who lost property.
During the Chibok 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 from future attacks.
“We are here to offer our condolences over what happened these past days in the Chibok general area, especially to those who lost their lives. The situation is painful. We are here to show our sorrow over what happened.
“Death comes at its appointed time. We offer you our condolences and assure you that, God willing, the issue of insecurity in Chibok will be resolved. We will provide a permanent solution and put an end to it.
“We will take action. Please be patient. Our thoughts are with you, and one thing that made me happy is how you have remained calm and stayed in your communities despite everything,” Zulum said.
