Governor Zulum: Boko Haram Feeds Poverty, Displacement in Borno

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has highlighted how the persisting Boko Haram insurgency continues to exacerbate poverty, hunger, and widespread displacement of individuals in the state. During a two-day leadership retreat for 17 commissioners at the Nigerian Army University, Biu (NAUB), Zulum discussed the adverse impacts of terrorism on the state's economy and humanitarian situation.

Governor Zulum expressed that the 14-year insurgency has inflicted a heavy toll on the North East, leading to the loss of more than 40,000 lives and the destruction of property valued at over N4.2 trillion. He stressed that Boko Haram's activities have deepened the ongoing humanitarian crisis, worsened poverty, and heightened fragility across multiple sectors in the state.

While acknowledging these challenges, Governor Zulum emphasized that good governance and accountability are essential prerequisites for fostering economic growth. He underlined their significance in improving the prospects of the people and ensuring meaningful progress in the state.

The purpose of the leadership retreat, according to Zulum, is to collectively address the challenges faced by the state and to align the efforts of his administration toward achieving its vision and mission. The retreat aims to equip every member of the Borno State Leadership Team (BSLP) with a comprehensive understanding of the governor's agenda and encourage their active involvement in policy implementation.

The governor emphasized the importance of the commissioners' roles in complementing his efforts to drive the state's recovery and development. By addressing the pressing issues arising from the Boko Haram insurgency and fostering unity among leadership, Governor Zulum seeks to usher in positive change and progress for the people of Borno State.