Governor Zulum Makes Return to Marte in Effort to Re-establish Peace
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, returned to Marte on Thursday after an overnight stay in the community on Saturday.
The visit was an integral component of continuous initiatives aimed at restoring peace, rebuilding trust, and promoting sustainable development in the Lake Chad region.
Governor Zulum, who departed Maiduguri last week, has been actively coordinating security logistics and fostering resilience among residents impacted by the recent increase in Boko Haram attacks.
Since the previous Saturday, the governor has conducted visits to nine communities: Marte, Kala-Balge, Wulgo, Ngala, Lugumani, Gajibo, Koibe, Dikwa, and Ajiri.
During the visit, Governor Zulum conducted a private meeting with military commanders to discuss strategies for restoring peace in Marte and the surrounding communities.
“I am present to assess the effectiveness of our recent ‘re-resettlement’ of the residents that took place a few days ago.” I am pleased to observe that the community has fully returned, and personnel are actively engaged on the ground. “Economic activities have returned to normal in Marte,” stated Zulum.
He stated, “I am very pleased, and with hope, normalcy will be restored soon.”
The governor was joined by representatives from the Marte, Monguno, and Nganzai constituencies at the House of Representatives, including Engr. Bukar Talba; the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Sugun Mai Mele; the Commissioner for Agriculture, Engr. Bawu Musami; the Permanent Secretary of the Government House; and Barr. Mustapha Ali Busuguma, along with several other senior officials.
On Sunday, Governor Zulum urged the Federal Government to implement effective strategies to prevent the capture of Marte town by Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents.
During a press briefing in Marte town on Thursday, Governor Zulum expressed his appreciation to the Federal Government and the military for their prompt response to his request for the protection of Marte against insurgent threats.
He stated, “The federal government and the Nigerian Armed Forces have positively addressed our request to improve security in the affected communities.” A significant number of troops and equipment have been deployed.
“I would like to express my appreciation for the cooperation provided by the Nigerian Armed Forces; their support has been instrumental in our achievements.” I would like to express my appreciation to all stakeholders who have played a role in our pursuit of peace and the restoration of normalcy.