Maiduguri: Since Nigeria’s return to democracy, the nation has grappled with multifaceted security challenges. In the North-East, Boko Haram has waged a brutal campaign against western education. The North-Central has witnessed frequent farmers-herders clashes, while the North-West faces rampant banditry. In the South-East, the secessionist group IPOB poses another significant threat. These challenges have strained national resources, necessitating urgent and effective measures to address the situation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, between January and June 2024, the Federal Government allocated N1.03 trillion to combat insecurity and terrorism. Borno State, the birthplace and operational base of Boko Haram, has suffered significantly from these issues, disrupting social and economic life in the region. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, emphasized the importance of soldier morale in overcoming these challenges. He highlighted the need for exemplary leadership to guide future generations and ensure their readiness to take on leadership roles.
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno has aligned with Oluyede’s vision by providing substantial financial support to the families of fallen soldiers. Recently, Zulum announced a donation of N300 million to support the families of soldiers who lost their lives fighting Boko Haram. Security analysts believe that such measures can enhance the morale and professionalism of military personnel, benefiting not only those on the battlefield but also their families.
Consistently, Zulum has provided financial support to the families of military personnel killed in action and to soldiers wounded in the fight against Boko Haram. In the past year, his efforts have been more pronounced than ever before. Observers note that Zulum’s contributions, particularly in providing operational logistics to the military and other security agencies, have left a lasting impact.
In June, Zulum provided N100 million to support 88 wounded soldiers and the families of fallen heroes in the state. Each wounded soldier received N500,000, while N56 million was distributed to the families of fallen heroes. In December 2024, another N100 million was gifted to wounded soldiers and the families of fallen heroes in Maiduguri.
The recent success in neutralizing over 100 terrorists, including 12 Boko Haram Commanders, within a week of operations in Borno is attributed to the combined efforts of COAS motivational techniques and Zulum’s incentives. The governor acknowledges that his generosity alone cannot heal the wounds of the affected soldiers and families, yet he remains committed to supporting them.
Spokesperson Mr. Dauda Iliya highlighted Zulum’s efforts in procuring vehicles, motorcycles, and security gadgets to enhance military operations in the state. Additionally, the governor approved the recruitment of 1,250 Civilian JTF members to strengthen local security efforts.
Stakeholders believe that the collaborative approach of Zulum and Oluyede is yielding positive results in the ongoing fight against insurgents. The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, also praised the intensified intelligence surveillance in the Sambisa Forest and Lake Chad region, facilitated by new aerial platforms such as the Super Tucano aircraft.
Security experts suggest that Zulum’s transparent and generous approach to boosting troop morale and supporting wounded soldiers and their families should be emulated across the nation. Overall, Zulum’s efforts are seen as instrumental in elevating the spirits of military personnel and motivating them to face the state’s adversaries with renewed determination.
