At least eight people were killed and 21 others injured in a bomb explosion suspected to have been planted by Boko Haram insurgents along the Maiduguri-Damboa highway on Saturday.
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, visited the injured victims at the Specialist Hospital in Maiduguri, where 14 of them were reported to be in serious condition, while seven sustained minor injuries.
Expressing his condolences, Governor Zulum said, “It is regrettable that this is happening at a time when we have not witnessed an IED [Improvised Explosive Device] attack for over a year. The road was closed for about a month, and I believe that gave the insurgents the opportunity to plant the device.”
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to supporting security agencies and urged the Nigerian military to enhance surveillance along the troubled highway to prevent further attacks.
“I urge the Nigerian military and other security agencies to beef up surveillance along the road so that such incidents do not happen again,” he said. “The government of Borno State will continue to partner with the Nigerian military and with the federal government to curtail the menace of insurgency.”
Zulum also assured residents of his government’s resolve to maintain security: “Insha Allah, under my watch, we wouldn’t allow the security situation to deteriorate.”
He further pledged increased support for youth volunteers assisting the military in counter-insurgency operations.
Speaking to journalists in Maiduguri after his hospital visit, Governor Zulum expressed optimism following a recent security meeting in Abuja with military service chiefs.
“Our discussion during the security council meeting was productive. We raised concerns about the resurgence of Boko Haram activities in Borno, and we all agreed on the need for collective action,” he said.
The Governor confirmed receiving strong assurances from the service chiefs and added, “We are very happy with their response.”