Zulum Declares 10-Day Prayers, Fasting to End Terror, Kidnappings in Borno

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has called for a sustained 10-day period of prayers and fasting aimed at seeking divine intervention to end the wave of kidnappings and terrorist attacks ravaging parts of the state.

The governor urged Muslims to take advantage of the last ten days of Ramadan to intensify prayers, particularly the night supplication known as Tahajjud prayer, for peace and stability in the troubled state.

Zulum made the call in a statement issued in Maiduguri by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, while the governor is currently in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, performing the lesser pilgrimage, Umrah.

According to the governor, the renewed attacks by insurgent groups must not weaken the resolve of residents to remain united in confronting insecurity.

“The recent coordinated attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province terrorists should not dampen the spirit of resilience and unity of purpose needed to confront our common enemy,” Zulum said.

He stressed that the final days of Ramadan represent a sacred period for supplication and urged citizens to dedicate the period to seeking God’s mercy and intervention.

“As we usher in the last ten days of the holy month, let us intensify our prayers to the Almighty God and beseech Him through acts of worship so that we may attract His mercies, blessings and rewards,” the governor said.

Zulum disclosed that he had already joined other Muslim faithful in Mecca to hold special prayers for lasting peace in Borno State and across Nigeria.

Beyond the Muslim community, the governor also appealed to Christians observing the Lenten season to join in prayers for an end to the violence.

“I also want to call on the Christian community who are observing Lent to join in special prayers to end this madness of killings and abductions,” he added.

The governor described the resurgence of attacks as a temporary challenge, expressing confidence that unity among citizens and divine intervention would help overcome the crisis.

While sympathising with families who lost loved ones in recent attacks, Zulum reassured residents that his administration would continue to support the military and other security agencies in their efforts to defeat insurgency.

Borno State has endured more than a decade of insurgency linked to Boko Haram and ISWAP, a conflict that has destroyed communities, displaced millions and claimed thousands of lives across the region.

Zulum reaffirmed that the state government remains committed to working with security forces and communities to restore lasting peace and stability.

Zulum Sets 2027 Deadline to Wrap Up Projects, Vows to End Security Gaps in Borno

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has declared that his administration will decisively address lingering security concerns and complete all ongoing capital projects across Borno State before leaving office in 2027.

The governor made this known on Thursday during the first 2026 meeting of the State Executive Council (SEC) held at the Government House in Maiduguri, where he outlined his administration’s priorities for the coming year.

Zulum explained that several projects spanning healthcare, education, agriculture, and security sectors remain at different stages of completion across the Southern, Central, and Northern Senatorial Districts. He assured council members that the government would intensify efforts to ensure their delivery within the lifespan of his tenure.

According to him, 2026 will serve as a consolidation year, focused on strengthening the gains recorded in socio-economic development while ensuring that ongoing initiatives are brought to fruition.

“Though we have witnessed significant improvement in security across many communities, we will not relent in safeguarding every part of our state,” the governor said, stressing that no area would be left vulnerable.

Beyond infrastructure and security, Zulum reaffirmed his commitment to resettling internally displaced persons (IDPs), noting that his government would invest in sustainable, long-term solutions designed to endure beyond his administration.

He also underscored the importance of expanding social welfare programmes to cushion vulnerable citizens. Social protection, he said, remains a cornerstone of the rebuilding process in post-conflict Borno.

“We must continue providing essential services, but we must equally strengthen social protection mechanisms to secure the future of our people,” he stated.

The council meeting was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijani, and Acting Chief of Staff, Babagana Mustapha Mallumbe, alongside commissioners and other senior government officials.

With a firm 2027 target in sight, the governor signalled a renewed push to solidify his administration’s legacy in security stabilisation, infrastructure delivery, and social welfare reform across Borno State.

N20.1m Insurance Payout: Borno Police Support Families of Fallen Officers

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

The Nigeria Police Force in Borno State has disbursed over N20 million to families of officers who lost their lives in active service, reaffirming its commitment to personnel welfare.

Borno State Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, approved the payment of N20,137,770.34 to nine bereaved families under the Inspector General of Police’s Group Insurance Welfare Scheme.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, announced the development in a statement issued on Sunday in Maiduguri. He explained that the beneficiaries include next-of-kin and family members of officers who paid the supreme price while serving the nation with courage and dedication.

According to the statement, the insurance and welfare package is part of ongoing efforts by the police leadership to ensure that families of fallen officers receive financial support and stability in the aftermath of their loss.

Representing the Commissioner at the presentation ceremony, Deputy Commissioner Ibrahim Sumaila stressed that the well-being of officers and their loved ones remains a central priority of the Force. He described the insurance scheme as a reflection of the Inspector General’s compassion, transparency, and dedication to honoring those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s peace and security.

Sumaila urged the beneficiaries to make prudent use of the funds, particularly in supporting their children’s education, healthcare needs, and overall family welfare.

He also applauded the Inspector General for sustaining the Group Life Assurance Scheme, noting that it serves as a critical safety net for families left behind by fallen heroes.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Modu Ishaku conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the police leadership for the timely intervention, pledging that the families would utilize the support responsibly.