By Ebenezer Mabinuola
In a sobering update from the heart of Nigeria’s troubled northeast, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has issued a strong warning about the worsening security situation in Marte Local Government Area (LGA), a region long plagued by insurgent violence.
Located near the western shores of Lake Chad, Marte has been a critical battleground in the fight against Boko Haram and its affiliate, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Its strategic position has made it a repeated target of militant operations, resulting in persistent instability and a growing humanitarian crisis.
During a field visit to Marte recently, Governor Zulum observed the dire conditions firsthand. In a statement the following day, he revealed that out of over 300 towns and villages in the LGA, only one remains under government control. The remainder have either fallen to insurgents or are at imminent risk.
The governor’s visit, which included an overnight stay in the embattled region, was intended to boost morale among residents and security forces. Accompanied by the military and civilian volunteers, he engaged with displaced persons and local leaders to assess urgent needs and discuss paths to stability.
Governor Zulum reported that attacks over a recent three-day period had forced approximately 20,000 residents to flee their homes, with many seeking refuge in the nearby town of Dikwa. He raised serious concerns about the well-being of the displaced, especially young people who could be vulnerable to recruitment by insurgent groups if left without adequate support.
“This is not just a security issue; it’s a humanitarian crisis,” Zulum stated. “We must act quickly to protect the most vulnerable, especially our youth, who are at risk of exploitation.”
The governor made a direct appeal to the Federal Government and the military, urging immediate and coordinated action to prevent the complete collapse of state control in Marte. He stressed the importance of maintaining a continuous security presence to protect the last town still held by the government.
“The implications of losing Marte are far-reaching,” he warned. “Such a loss would seriously undermine efforts to restore peace and security in Borno and the broader Lake Chad region.”
Despite the challenges, Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s full support for the armed forces. He pledged to continue providing all necessary logistical and financial resources to strengthen operations and enable the eventual return of displaced communities.
Zulum’s visit is part of a broader, hands-on approach to leadership. His presence in frontline areas and ongoing efforts to engage with affected populations reflect a deep commitment to restoring normalcy and hope in the state.
