Zulum deploys civilian JTF, troops to Kirawa after Cameroonian soldiers withdraw

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has mobilised Civilian JTF fighters and Nigerian troops to Kirawa, a border community in Gwoza Local Government Area, following the withdrawal of Cameroonian soldiers previously stationed in the town.

Shortly after the foreign troops’ exit, Boko Haram insurgents launched an attack on Kirawa, killing residents and razing several houses. During a visit to the area on Friday, Zulum expressed concern over the repeated assaults and warned of the dangers of leaving strategic border towns without adequate security.

“Yes, Cameroonian troops have withdrawn, but that doesn’t mean the Nigerian Army should abandon the area,” the governor said. “We resettled this community about seven years ago with the support of Cameroonian soldiers. Unfortunately, the people have been displaced again by insurgents.”

Zulum said he had repeatedly alerted the Nigerian military to the security risks posed by the troop withdrawal. “I duly notified the Nigerian military of the dangers of leaving this town unguarded. Kirawa, Wilgo, Baga, Damasak, and Malamfatori are border communities that must be protected because of their strategic importance,” he added.

According to him, the insurgents’ attack on Wednesday destroyed about 50 houses, eight vehicles, and several pieces of heavy-duty equipment. Two residents lost their lives. “We thank God the casualties were not more,” he said.

The governor disclosed that he has met with the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai and the Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force to agree on new security measures. “We have all agreed that the Nigerian Army will, within the shortest possible time, redeploy soldiers to Kirawa,” Zulum stated.

He also pledged increased support for Civilian JTF and vigilante groups, promising to provide them with modern equipment to strengthen community defence. “We are also exploring the use of modern technology to enhance surveillance and tackle insecurity in this area,” he said.

Addressing residents, Zulum urged them not to panic, insisting that local resistance and commitment were key to defeating insurgents. “Very few Boko Haram members should not be able to overpower an entire community,” he said. “What matters most is not the number of soldiers but their commitment during operations.”

The governor appealed to the federal government and the military high command to sustain counter-insurgency operations and ensure continuous funding. “We need sustained military operations, not temporary ones,” he said. “Whenever operations are halted, insurgents regroup and strike again.”

He also reminded authorities of the need to follow every military success with stabilization, reconstruction, and resettlement efforts, in line with UN guidelines. “If we fail to rebuild and secure captured areas, all our military gains could be wasted,” he warned.

Zulum further appealed for the protection of strategic border communities, noting that the fall of Kirawa could trigger displacement in nearby areas like Pulka and Ngoshe, eventually threatening Gwoza town.

“I understand the army is stretched thin, but certain strategic locations must not be abandoned,” he stressed.

The governor commended the Chief of Army Staff for his prompt response and the quick steps taken to prevent further attacks.