Borno State governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has dedicated the release of 434 captives from Ngoshe and other communities to this year’s Democracy Day celebration, describing the development as a symbol of progress in ongoing efforts to restore peace in the state.
Zulum made this known in a state-wide Democracy Day broadcast on Friday in Maiduguri, noting that the rescue of women and children from Boko Haram captivity reflects the continued commitment of security forces to ending insurgency in the North-East.
He said the successful operation demonstrates the “unwavering commitment” of the armed forces and security agencies to restoring peace and safeguarding lives and property across affected communities.
“It is with profound gratitude to Almighty Allah that I address you today on the occasion of Democracy Day and the celebration of 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in our dear country,” the governor said.
“In Borno State, we have remained committed to building and sustaining governance on the enduring principles of accountability, inclusiveness, and service delivery.”
Zulum commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in addressing insecurity in Borno State and across the country, saying the collaboration between federal and state authorities has strengthened counter-insurgency efforts.
He assured residents that his administration would continue working with the military, security agencies and other stakeholders to secure the release of remaining abducted persons and achieve lasting peace in the state.
“While we remain grateful for the successful rescue of many abducted persons over the years, we have not forgotten those who are still in captivity, including the abducted Chibok girls and the victims of Dille/Mussa abduction. We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring their safe return,” he said.
The governor also used the occasion to reflect on his tenure, noting that his administration was approaching its final phase following his election in 2019.
“Today marks my final Democracy Day address as your Governor. By the grace of Almighty Allah, in exactly one year, a new administration will assume leadership and build upon the foundations we have collectively laid,” Zulum said.
He added that democratic governance thrives on consultation, continuity and collective responsibility, while acknowledging the contributions of past leaders and political stakeholders in the development of the state.
Zulum further stated that despite persistent insecurity challenges, Borno State has recorded improvements due to sustained military operations, government support and community resilience.
He disclosed that the state government had provided logistics and operational support to security agencies, including vehicles, motorcycles and security equipment to strengthen field operations.
The governor expressed condolences to families of security personnel and civilians killed in the conflict, describing their sacrifices as instrumental to ongoing peace efforts.
“I assure you that we shall continue to support our security agencies until lasting peace is restored and the scourge of terrorism and other forms of criminality are decisively dealt with,” he said.
Zulum expressed optimism that his administration would hand over a more secure and stable Borno State to his successor in 2027.
