Zulum Commends Tinubu, Military After Rescue of 360 Abductees in Borno
By Olivia Amarachi Iroh
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has praised the Nigerian military, especially troops of Operation HADIN KAI, following the successful rescue of 360 people who had been held captive in the Mandara Mountains, an area long associated with insurgent activities in the southern part of the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday through his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor described the operation as a significant milestone in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign, highlighting the courage, professionalism, and effectiveness of intelligence-driven military operations in the North-East.
According to Zulum, the recovery of hundreds of men, women, and children has restored hope to affected communities and reinforced the commitment of the Federal Government, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the Borno State Government to protecting lives and restoring peace across the region.
The governor expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, and all officers and soldiers who participated in the operation for their dedication and sacrifice.
He stated that the troops' bravery and professionalism once again demonstrated the Armed Forces' resolve to safeguard innocent citizens and confront security threats across the country.
Zulum also acknowledged the contributions of local communities, noting that their cooperation and timely support played an important role in the success of the rescue mission.
Describing the recovery of the 360 abductees as a major achievement, the governor said the operation reflected the value of inter-agency collaboration and the determination of security agencies to ensure that citizens are rescued from the custody of insurgent groups.
He reaffirmed the Borno State Government's commitment to sustaining support for the military and other security agencies through logistical assistance aimed at strengthening ongoing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
The governor further appealed to residents of Mussa in Askira-Uba Local Government Area to remain hopeful, assuring them that efforts are continuing to secure the release of the abducted schoolchildren from the community.
He also urged residents across the state to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and provide credible intelligence that could assist ongoing operations against criminal and insurgent elements.
The development comes months after insurgents reportedly attacked a military base in Ngoshe on March 4, setting operational vehicles ablaze, dispersing security personnel, causing casualties, and abducting several individuals.
