Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, made a return visit to Marte on Thursday, days after spending a night in the once-insurgent-held community, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to rebuilding lives and restoring peace across the Lake Chad region.
Zulum’s presence in Marte marks the continuation of a week-long frontline tour that saw him visit nine conflict-affected communities, including Kala-Balge, Wulgo, Ngala, Lugumani, Gajibo, Koibe, Dikwa, and Ajiri, where he assessed ongoing resettlement efforts and coordinated security logistics.
Speaking to journalists during his visit, Zulum expressed satisfaction with progress made.
“I am here to monitor the efficacy of our re-resettlement efforts. I’m very happy to note that the community is fully back, soldiers are on ground, and economic activities have resumed in Marte. Insha Allah, normalcy will be restored soon.”
The governor also held a closed-door meeting with military commanders to fine-tune strategies for sustaining peace in the region. He was joined by key stakeholders including members of the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba, and state commissioners overseeing local government, agriculture, and other critical sectors.
In a show of gratitude, Zulum commended the federal government and the Nigerian Armed Forces for their swift response to his call for enhanced security in Marte and surrounding areas.
“The federal government and the military have responded positively. We’ve seen additional troops and equipment deployed. Without their support, much of what we’ve achieved wouldn’t have been possible,” Zulum said.
The governor’s visit reinforces his administration’s boots-on-the-ground approach in tackling insurgency and rebuilding war-torn communities across Borno State.
