Maiduguri, Nigeria — Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has made a startling revelation, claiming that some members of Nigeria’s political class and military are aiding Boko Haram insurgents through collusion and leaked intelligence. The governor emphasized that unless these internal saboteurs are identified and removed, the insurgency will persist despite ongoing military efforts.
Speaking during a live appearance on News Central TV’s Breakfast show, Governor Zulum asserted that Nigeria could end the Boko Haram crisis within six months if security efforts were depoliticized and properly supported with equipment and intelligence.
“There are insiders within the armed forces, among politicians, and local communities who collaborate with terrorists. We must strengthen our intelligence architecture and act decisively against them,” Zulum said.
Military Equipment Shortfalls and Drone Threats
Governor Zulum criticized the under-equipped state of the Nigerian military, stating that the armed forces are at a technological disadvantage compared to insurgents who have started deploying drones in combat operations.
“The Chief of Army Staff recently told me they need 32 drones to effectively combat insurgents. That’s the level of sophistication we’re up against,” Zulum explained. “We need urgent and adequate investment in military hardware.”
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Non-Kinetic Measures Gaining Ground
While reaffirming the importance of military action, Zulum emphasized that force alone will not solve Nigeria’s security challenges. He urged federal and state authorities to implement broader strategies, including socio-economic and political interventions.
He highlighted ongoing rehabilitation and reintegration programs for repentant insurgents, stating that the majority of those who surrendered are contributing positively to society.
“Over 99% of the 500,000+ individuals who surrendered are no longer involved in terrorism. While we can’t rule out a few reoffending, the majority are reintegrating successfully,” he said.
Appeal to President Tinubu: Listen to Ground Intelligence
The governor urged President Bola Tinubu to prioritize frontline intelligence and listen to security professionals instead of political figures who may be disconnected from the realities on the ground.
“Security must not be politicized. The president needs accurate, professional insights—not sycophancy,” Zulum said. “He should hear directly from those who are on the frontlines and understand what is truly happening.”
Senate Echoes Concerns as Insecurity Spreads
Meanwhile, Senate President Godswill Akpabio weighed in, warning that foreign elements are among those fuelling terrorism in Nigeria. The Senate issued a caution that unchecked insecurity could engulf other parts of the North.
Efforts to obtain a response from the Defence Headquarters proved unsuccessful. Messages and calls to Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, went unanswered.
You May Also Want to Read: Boko Haram Strikes Again: 7 Dead in Maiduguri-Damboa Road Explosion.
The Situation in Marte: A Town on the Brink
Highlighting the urgency, Zulum recalled a recent trip to Marte, the last town in the local government area not under Boko Haram control. He warned that the loss of Marte would mark a total collapse of governance in that region.
“We resettled Marte only a few years ago, but it was overrun again recently. Around 20,000 people fled to Dikwa,” the governor reported. “If we lose Marte, we lose the entire local government to the insurgents. That would be catastrophic.”
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Zulum’s appeal comes as Borno State remains the epicenter of Boko Haram’s decade-long insurgency, which has claimed more than 50,000 lives and displaced millions since 2009.
Strengthen Security, Not Multiply Forces
On the topic of state policing, Zulum advocated for reinforcing existing security agencies rather than introducing new structures, citing the importance of coordination and sustainability.
