In a moment that blended honour, gratitude, and renewed commitment to peace, Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, led top military officers, lawmakers, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders to commission multiple projects executed under the supervision of the Commander Sector 3 OPERATION HADINKAI (OPHK) and Multinational Joint Task Force(MNJTF) Major General Suleiman Tilawan at Kinnasara Cantonment Monguno, Borno State.
The Governor and other top government functionaries also celebrated Major General Suleiman S. Tillawan — one of northern Borno’s finest sons — for his outstanding contributions to security and stability in the region.
The projects commissioned includes the newly constructed and equipped Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede Cafeteria and Lounge, named after the former Chief of Army Staff, and the newly remodelled, renovated and refurbished Warrant Officers and Sergeant Mess. These State- of- the- art facilities marks a significant milestone in efforts to improve the welfare and morale of troops to enhance their operational performance as they fulfill their constitutional duty to defend the country.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour, Governor Zulum described the occasion as a celebration of “one of our own,” praising Major General Tillawan as a disciplined, professional, and dependable officer whose record of service speaks for itself.
Recalling their first encounter during Tillawan’s tenure as Brigade Commander in Damboa, the governor noted that his effectiveness has remained consistent over the years. According to Zulum, the impact of Tillawan’s leadership has been especially evident since his appointment as Sector Commander three months ago.
“Since then, we have witnessed phenomenal improvement in the security situation,” the governor said, pointing to concrete gains rather than mere promises.
Among the key achievements highlighted were the establishment of a Forward Army Operating Base (FAOB) in Tutsi, the re-establishment of Nairari town, the realignment and reopening of Kekeno, and the strengthening of military presence in Malam Fatori and other strategic locations. These interventions, Zulum said, have not only improved security but have also restored confidence among displaced communities.
While applauding Tillawan’s leadership, Governor Zulum was careful to acknowledge that success on the battlefield is never a one-man effort. He commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Waidi Shaibu, the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, and the officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces operating within Sector 3 for their resilience, courage, and sacrifices in the face of persistent threats.
“The credit does not go to the commander alone,” Zulum emphasised. “I commend the officers and men serving under him for the support that has contributed to these achievements.”
Beyond security operations, the event underscored the importance of troop welfare and remembrance. Two major morale-boosting projects were commissioned during the ceremony — the renovated Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess, and a newly refurbished, fully equipped cafeteria and lounge for officers and soldiers serving in the sector.
In his emotional vote of thanks, Major General Tillawan expressed deep appreciation for the overwhelming show of love and solidarity. He revealed that the decision to host the event in Monguno was inspired by Governor Zulum’s advice to celebrate among his people.
Tillawan thanked his officers and men for their dedication and teamwork, describing them as the backbone behind the success of the event and the operational gains recorded in the sector. He also expressed gratitude to the governor, lawmakers, commissioners, and dignitaries who travelled to Monguno to honour him.
“I am really honoured, sir, and I am grateful for your kindness as always,” he said.
The event drew an impressive array of stakeholders, reflecting the broad support for security efforts in northern Borno. Among those in attendance were the member representing Marte, Monguno, and Nganzai Federal Constituency, Hon. Bukar Talba; the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkareem Lawan; members of the State Assembly; commissioners; local government chairmen from northern Borno; and other senior government officials.
As the ceremony came to a close, one message stood out clearly: the fight against insurgency in Borno State is being reinforced not only with weapons and strategy, but also with leadership, community connection, and respect for sacrifice.
For Major General Suleiman Tillawan, the investiture was both a recognition of past service and a charge to sustain momentum. For Governor Zulum and the people of Borno, it was a reaffirmation that progress in security is possible when dedication, collaboration, and local ownership come together.
In Monguno, amid tributes and symbolism, a renewed resolve was quietly forged — to honour the fallen, support the living, and continue the journey toward lasting peace in Borno State.
