Troops sustain security operations in Taraba amid rising tension, population returns

By: Zagazola Makama

The Nigerian Army has intensified security operations across parts of Taraba State under Operation LAFIYA JAMAA to restore civil authority and ensure the return of displaced persons to conflict-affected communities.

Zagazola Makama report that the troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), and the police troops have carried out multiple patrols, escort missions, and security operations between May 24 and 25, covering sensitive areas in Karim Lamido, Zing, and Jalingo LGAs.

Troops on escort duty provided security cover for a humanitarian team from the Taraba State Emergency Management Agency (TSEMA), led by Mrs Echuseh, as they delivered cash and relief materials to displaced residents in Bandawa, Karim, and Bambuka communities, severely affected by recent communal conflict.

The successful escort mission ensured that vulnerable populations in the area accessed critical relief support without incident, reinforcing military-civilian cooperation and the Army’s stabilisation efforts.

In a separate confidence-building effort, troops deployed to Munga Lelau, Bunkachi, and Gwamu villages observed that locals who had earlier fled due to insecurity had started returning to their homes. The presence of security forces has helped restore a sense of safety and rekindle hope among the traumatized residents.

Similarly, troops in Kambari village, Karim Lamido LGA, embarked on a patrol of the outskirts of the town to deny criminal elements freedom of action. No hostile contact was made, and the patrol concluded without incident.

In Zing LGA, another unit from the Battalion conducted an aggressive foot patrol at Monkin village to dislodge potential threats and deter further escalation of violence in the area. The troops returned safely after completing the assignment.

Joint night patrols were also conducted by troops around the Munga Lelau–Bambuka axis and within Kambari town to maintain round-the-clock vigilance and prevent the regrouping of armed groups.

In Jalingo, troops mounted a checkpoint at Kpantinapo community where they conducted a “Stop and Search” operation aimed at intercepting illicit arms, ammunition, and wanted persons. The operation was described as successful and hitch-free.

Meanwhile, in Jeb Jeb village of Karim Lamido LGA, troops initiated a “Block Force” operation along the Amper–Bachubi road to locate and engage suspected hostile elements. While no contact was made during this mission, it point to the security forces aggressive push to deny bandits and militia groups any operational space.

The sources said although, the general security situation within the area remains calm, the sources described the current situation as unpredictable, requiring sustained vigilance.

Troops sustain security operations in Taraba amid rising tension, population returns

Zulum begins 100-bed hospital, market complex in Dikwa

By: Michael Mike

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has commenced the construction of a new 100-bed capacity general hospital and a market complex in Dikwa.

Zulum assessed the proposed project site on Thursday and directed that work should begin immediately.

The new hospital will include features such as modern medical equipment and specialised units to address the various health challenges faced by the community.

When completed, the hospital will offer comprehensive medical services, such as emergency care, maternal health, and outpatient services, to the residents of Dikwa and surrounding communities.

According to the governor, projects are part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to restore stability, improve healthcare, and boost economic activities in places affected by the over one decade old insurgency.

Speaking separately, Zulum charged the contractors to ensure compliance with all engineering specifications.

The Governor was accompanied by a member of the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba, a member representing Dikwa at the State House of Assembly; Zakariya Mohammed, Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Sugun Mai Mele; Commissioner for Agriculture, Engr Bawu Musami; Permanent Secretary of Government House, Barr. Mustapha Ali Busuguma, among many senior officials.

Zulum begins 100-bed hospital, market complex in Dikwa

Borno’s Unyielding Leader : Zulum Leading the Charge Against Terrorists

By Gbenga Akingbule.

In a clear response to the recent surge in Boko Haram attacks, Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has taken swift action. One of his key decisions was to visit towns and villages devastated by the insurgents, aiming to reassure and bring hope to affected communities.

Gatekeepers News reports that this is not first time Prof Zulum will be visiting deadly zones where boko haram terrorists had lunched attacks against the military and civilians, his aim as always is to bring hope and support to affected communities.

Last week, Governor Zulum embarked on a visit to Marte Local Government Council, a fron-line community where the Boko Haram Terrorists had killed both civilians and military personnel. Seeing the level of devastation, Zulum made a passionate appeal to the Federal Government not allow Marte fall to the insurgents.

According to Zulum ” Marte Local Government comprises over 300 towns and villages, now we have only one standing, if we cannot maintain this one, then we will lose the whole Local Government to the insurgents, which will be very obnoxious, and I think we will not allow this to happen. Therefore, I am calling on the federal government and the Nigerian Army so that we can put heads together and hold our ground for this single town in this LGA to remain.”

The governor who can best be described as one of the fearless governors in the country, took the bull by the horn when he spent
nights in the affected communities, coordinating security logistics and supporting residents with food and non-food items to cushion their hardship.

The fearless Zulum didn’t terminate his trip at Marte, he proceded to other affected communities where his people are still trapped in fear and uncertainty following the renewed Boko Haram attacks.

In Rann , Kala Balge Local Government Council and Wulgo in Ngala Local Government Council, the governor also took same message of hope and support to displaced residents urging them to keep hope alive as the state government and security forces are on top of the situation.

Only last week, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher Musa visited Maiduguri to assess the situation where he met with top military officers and promised that the military will change the narrative and that there will be no hidding place for both Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists.

As the Army begins the Chief of Army Staff first Bi – Annual Conference in Maiduguri on Thursday, expectations are high that the outcome will yield effective strategies to counter the resurgence of Boko Haram attacks, ultimately ensuring the safety and security of Borno State’s residents, especially those in rural communities

” Our goal will be to identify areas for improvement and develop practical solutions that will strengthen our effectiveness in safeguarding the nation’s peace and security ” The Chief of Army Staff (COAS ) Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede promised while delivering his speech at the conference.

COAS added that ” We must not allow these setbacks to dampen our spirit or diminish our collective resolve to stamp out that which seeks to ridicule the sanctity of our sovereignty .”
Gbenga Akingbule, is a practicing journalist in Maiduguri

Borno’s Unyielding Leader : Zulum Leading the Charge Against Terrorists