Governor of Borno state, Babagana Zulum, has issued a stern warning to farming and fishing communities in Baga against collaborating with Boko Haram insurgents.
According to the governor, such acts pose a substantial threat to regional peace and stability.
Zulum issued the warning during an address to citizens at the District Head’s palace in Baga town on Wednesday.
He urged the people of Baga and surrounding communities to conduct their farming activities only within areas approved by the military.
The governor emphasised the importance of complying with guidelines set by the Nigerian military and the Borno government.
He stressed that “while we support agricultural activities, it is critical that our people comply with the guidelines to ensure their safety and the stability of the state.”
The governor’s visit came on the heels of a recent attack by the Islamic State of the West African Province (ISWAP) in Dumba, Kukawa Local Government Area of the state.
The attack resulted in the deaths of forty farmers.
Zulum criticized all forms of collaboration with militants as “unacceptable and detrimental to ongoing efforts to restore stability in the state.”
In an effort to increase agricultural output, the governor examined a 2,000-hectare solar-powered surface irrigation system at Mile 3 in Baga.
He lauded the project as a watershed moment in increasing farming operations and ensuring food security in Borno and beyond.
According to him, the project is consistent with President Bola Tinubu’s aim of guaranteeing food sufficiency while lowering production costs.
Zulum revealed plans to use the irrigated field for cassava growing following the wheat harvest, relying on the solar-powered system to cut operational costs.
The governor, who was greeted warmly in Kukawa, promised to speed restoration work in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
He also praised the 101 Special Forces Battalion’s soldiers for their bravery and promised them continuing assistance from the state administration.
Zulum was accompanied by members of the National Assembly and other government officials.
