Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has commended troops of the Nigerian Army for their bravery and resilience in successfully repelling a recent terrorist attack in northern Borno, describing their performance as “exceedingly commendable.”
The Governor gave the commendation during a visit to the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, where he praised officers and men for standing firm against insurgents despite challenging terrain and persistent threats.
Mairari, a strategic town in the state, endured two insurgent attacks in December. On both occasions, the assaults were successfully repelled by troops, averting a significant security breach.
Reaffirming the government’s determination to reclaim and stabilize affected communities, Zulum declared that Mairari would remain permanently secured, adding that civilians would soon return to the area.
“Boko Haram will continue to try, but they will never succeed,” he stated.
“I want to commend you, on behalf of the government and people of Borno State, for how you stood firm and repelled the attack. You have done very well, and it is our sincere hope that you will sustain the momentum,” Zulum said.
Governor Zulum also prayed for the quick recovery of personnel injured during the attack, expressing hope that such incidents would not recur. He assured the troops of the continued support of the Borno State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army, to motivate and strengthen frontline operations.
The Governor further commended the Sector Commander, battalion leadership, officers and soldiers, as well as the Chief of Army Staff and the Theatre Commander, for their sustained support and commitment to the fight against insurgency.
Governor Zulum emphasized the need for effective coordination among all security stakeholders, including the military, police, hunters, volunteers, and forest guards, noting that unity and cooperation were critical to defeating terrorism.
He also assured the troops that requests earlier presented by the Battalion Commander would be addressed in due course, particularly challenges related to logistics and the difficult terrain.
The Governor further pledged continued provision of food and non-food items to sustain troop welfare, stressing that proper feeding and motivation were essential for operational success.
While encouraging commitment and professionalism, Zulum cautioned personnel to remain disciplined and law-abiding, urging strict adherence to the rules and ethics of the Nigerian military.
He concluded by reiterating the unwavering support of the Government of Nigeria and the people of Borno State for the Armed Forces, thanking the troops for their sacrifice and dedication to peace and security.
In his remark, the Commander Sector 3 OPERATION HADINKAI (OPHK) and Multinational Joint Task Force(MNJTF) Major General Suleiman Tilawan thanked the governor of Borno State for his immense support to the Military.
“The support we receive from the Borno State Government and the Theatre Commander has been exceptional,” he said. “It has translated into improved logistics, enhanced morale, and renewed confidence among our troops to confront threats head-on.”
"What makes us happy most is we see the villagers coming back, the people coming back to their homes as they see us safe, and we're very much concerned, that's what we talk about, what happens for them, and I'm sure it will be good.
"The soldiers are happy with you. The police are happy with you. The civil defense are happy with you, but the support you are giving us to come here, all the support the state government is giving for the system, and I pray that the efforts is not in vain. That whatever was so to achieve, to be achieved, that is the total resolution of peace and security and the comics that made it for this state." he said
Earlier, the Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Abdulazeez Ajibola Jimoh, presented a comprehensive briefing on the Forward Operating Base (FOB), highlighting the strategic importance of the location and the progress recorded so far.
He expressed appreciation for the uncommon support received from security agencies, particularly SARS, as well as the Borno State Government, the Theatre Commander, and the Chief of Army Staff, whose backing made the establishment and sustenance of the base possible. He noted that the stabilization operation commenced on 4 December 2025 due to the area’s significance as a major access route for terrorists.
Despite attacks on the location on 8 and 12 December 2025, troops successfully repelled the assaults, inflicting heavy losses on the terrorists. Since then, security has improved through enhanced patrols, quick response teams, joint task force operations, and collaboration with forest guards.
Lt. Col. Jimoh emphasized that troop morale remains high and residents are gradually returning to their communities as confidence in security is restored.
Governor Zulum also interacted with residents of Mairari, listening to their concerns and commending their courage. He described the community as a symbol of resilience and announced cash assistance to those affected by the recent attacks to ease hardships and support recovery.
