Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has returned to Marte as part of an intensified effort to restore peace and rebuild war-affected communities in the Lake Chad region, following a surge in Boko Haram and ISWAP activities.
The governor, who left Maiduguri last week, has now visited nine communities—Marte, Kala-Balge, Wulgo, Ngala, Lugumani, Gajibo, Koibe, Dikwa, and Ajiri—coordinating security logistics and reinforcing resilience among displaced and recently resettled residents.
“I am here to monitor the efficacy of our ‘re-resettlement’ of the residents we conducted a few days ago,” Governor Zulum told reporters in Marte. “I am very happy to note that the community is fully back, and soldiers are on ground. Normal economic activities have resumed in Marte. Insha Allah, normalcy will be restored soon.”
Military Engagement and Federal Response
During the visit, the governor held a closed-door meeting with military commanders to review security strategy and solidify the presence of armed forces in the area. This comes days after his public appeal to the Federal Government to prevent the fall of Marte to insurgents.
Zulum praised the swift deployment of troops and military hardware, stating:
“The Federal Government and the Nigerian Armed Forces have responded positively to our request to enhance security in the affected communities. Without their support, we couldn’t have done much.”
He extended his appreciation to all stakeholders—government officials, the military, and humanitarian partners—who have contributed to peacebuilding and resettlement efforts in the region.
Officials Accompany Governor
The governor was accompanied by a delegation including House of Representatives members for Marte, Monguno, and Nganzai constituencies; Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Sugun Mai Mele; Commissioner for Agriculture, Engr Bawu Musami; and Government House Permanent Secretary, Barr. Mustapha Ali Busuguma.
The visit highlights Zulum’s continued frontline leadership in the face of the decade-long insurgency, with a focus on community rehabilitation, economic revitalization, and long-term security stabilization.
