Governor Babagana Umara Zulum Pays Sympathy Visit to Baga, Warns Farmers Against Collusion with Insurgents

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has called on farming and fishing communities in Baga to avoid any form of collaboration with Boko Haram insurgents. Speaking at the palace of the District Head during a sympathy visit to Baga town on Wednesday, Babagana Umara Zulum described such actions as a direct threat to regional peace and security.

The Zulum’s visit came in the wake of a recent attack in Dumba community, prompting a renewed focus on security. “I urge the people of Baga and surrounding communities to conduct their farming activities only within areas approved by the military. While we support agricultural activities, it is critical that our people comply with the guidelines set by the Nigerian military and the Borno State government,” Zulum stated. He further emphasized that colluding with insurgents undermines ongoing efforts to restore stability in the state.

Solar-Powered Irrigation Project to Boost Agriculture

As part of his visit, Governor Zulum inspected a 2,000-hectare solar-powered surface irrigation system at Mile 3 in Baga. The project, aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, is expected to significantly impact food security in Borno State.

“This irrigation project is a milestone in boosting farming activities and achieving food security in Borno and beyond,” Zulum remarked in an interview. He noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of ensuring food sufficiency and reducing production costs.
The governor Babagana Umara Zulum revealed plans to cultivate cassava on the irrigated land after the wheat harvest, leveraging the solar-powered system to lower operational expenses. “This initiative will transform agricultural production in Borno State and strengthen our comparative advantage in wheat and cassava farming,” he added.

Reconstruction and Support for Security Forces

In Kukawa town, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum and his entourage were warmly received by residents. Addressing the community, he assured them of the state government’s commitment to accelerating reconstruction efforts in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Zulum also praised the troops of the 101 Special Forces Battalion for their bravery in safeguarding the area. “Your gallantry is commendable, and you can rest assured of continued support from the state government,” he said.

High-Level Delegation Accompanies the Governor Babagana Umara Zulum

The governor’s visit was marked by the presence of prominent leaders, including Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno (Borno North), Engr. Bukar Talba (representing Marte, Monguno, and Nganzai Federal Constituency), and Hon. Karta Maina Ma’aji (representing Kukawa at the State Assembly). Other top government officials also joined the entourage, highlighting the importance of the trip.
The visit underscores Governor Zulum’s commitment to addressing security challenges, fostering agricultural development, and rebuilding communities affected by insurgency in Borno State.

Community Engagement and Reconstruction Efforts

In Kukawa town, Babagana Umara Zulum and his entourage received a warm welcome from residents. Addressing the community, the governor pledged to fast-track reconstruction efforts in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. His assurances came as part of a broader strategy to rebuild communities affected by insurgent activities and restore normalcy to the region.

Zulum also commended the gallantry of troops from the 101 Special Forces Battalion stationed in the area. He assured them of continued state government support, emphasizing the critical role they play in safeguarding communities and enabling the resumption of socioeconomic activities.

The Dumba Massacre: A Grim Reminder

The governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s visit was necessitated by the tragic killing of 40 farmers in Dumba, northeast of Kukawa. The farmers, operating under the Lake Chad River Basin Authority, had ventured into ISWAP-controlled territories after paying levies to secure temporary farming access. Despite receiving passes and receipts from ISWAP, the insurgents betrayed the farmers, orchestrating a brutal attack amidst factional clashes with Boko Haram.

The attack highlighted the dangers of negotiating with terrorist groups, whose actions are driven by opportunism rather than goodwill. The massacre occurred in a heavily forested and waterlogged enclave, entirely controlled by ISWAP, rendering any rescue operation impossible. Governor Zulum reiterated the importance of adhering to military-approved farming zones to avoid such tragedies in the future.

This visit by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum underscores the critical need for vigilance, adherence to security guidelines, and sustained efforts to rebuild and secure Borno State.