Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum Urges Federal Government to Protect Marte from Boko Haram Insurgents
The security situation in northeastern Nigeria remains a critical concern, particularly in Borno State, which has been at the center of Boko Haram insurgency for over a decade. Recently, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State issued a strong call to the Federal Government, urging immediate and decisive action to prevent the town of Marte from falling once again into the hands of Boko Haram insurgents.
The Strategic Importance of Marte in Borno State
Marte is not just any town—it is a Local Government Area (LGA) located in Borno State, Nigeria, situated strategically on the western edge of Lake Chad. The town of Marte serves as the administrative headquarters of this LGA. Geographically, Marte is positioned at approximately 12°22′N latitude and 13°49′E longitude, making it an important gateway for regional security and socio-economic activities.
This town holds significant importance because of its proximity to the volatile Lake Chad basin and its historical role as a vibrant community that once hosted over 300 towns and villages within the Marte Local Government Area. However, years of insurgency have reduced this once-thriving region to a shadow of its former self.
Governor Zulum’s Visit and Urgent Appeal
On Sunday, May 18, 2025, Governor Babagana Zulum visited Marte to assess the situation firsthand and rally support for the community’s resilience against the insurgency. Speaking with journalists during his visit, the governor provided critical insights into the dire circumstances that the people of Marte are currently facing.
He explained,
“Marte was resettled about four years ago, but unfortunately, over the last three days, it was ransacked and displaced again.”
This statement highlights the ongoing instability in the region, where even after efforts to resettle the town and rebuild the community, Boko Haram insurgents have continued to pose a significant threat.
Governor Zulum further revealed the scale of displacement caused by recent attacks, emphasizing the human cost of the conflict.
“Approximately 20,000 people had fled Marte for Dikwa,” he said, warning about the consequences of such mass displacement.
The displacement of thousands of residents not only disrupts lives but also leaves young people vulnerable to recruitment by insurgents. The governor’s concern underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect the community and prevent further destabilization.
The Resilience of the Marte Community
Despite these challenges, Governor Zulum expressed a sense of hope and determination.
“Alhamdulillah, we returned to Marte yesterday and spent the night there with support from the Nigerian Army and our volunteers. The community is now resettled for the second time.”
This statement reflects the resilience of the people of Marte and the collaborative efforts between the state government, the Nigerian Army, and local volunteers to reclaim and secure the town. The governor’s visit was not only symbolic but also a call to action for all stakeholders to intensify their efforts to protect this critical community.
The Stakes: Holding on to Marte Means Holding on to Borno’s Future
Governor Zulum emphasized the strategic significance of Marte in the broader fight against insurgency in Borno State.
“Marte Local Government once had over 300 towns and villages. Now only one remains. If we cannot hold this one, we risk losing the entire Local Government to the insurgents, which would be unacceptable.”
This stark warning serves as a reminder of the devastating impact Boko Haram has had on the region’s communities and the importance of preventing further losses. Holding onto Marte is crucial not only for the survival of the town itself but for maintaining a foothold in the entire local government area, which has seen widespread devastation.
A Call for Unity and Strengthened Collaboration
Governor Zulum underscored the need for unity and cooperation between the Federal Government, the Nigerian Army, and local communities.
“I call on the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army to do everything possible to maintain control over the town.”
His call to action highlights the vital role that government and security agencies must play in securing vulnerable towns and protecting citizens. The governor stressed that without a coordinated and committed effort, the fragile gains made in the region could be lost.
Zulum also emphasized the importance of community involvement in ensuring peace and security. He pointed out that security is not only the responsibility of the military and government but also requires the active participation of local residents who understand the terrain and dynamics of their environment.
Commitment to Lasting Peace and Security
Throughout his remarks, Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to supporting security agencies and fostering lasting peace in Borno State. His government has been at the forefront of rebuilding efforts, resettling displaced persons, and promoting social cohesion to counteract the influence of insurgents.
By working closely with the Nigerian Army and leveraging the resilience of local communities, the governor envisions a future where towns like Marte can thrive once again, free from the threat of terrorism.
Why Protecting Marte Matters for Nigeria’s Security
Marte’s location on the western edge of Lake Chad places it in a highly sensitive region affected by cross-border insurgency activities. Boko Haram and other militant groups have used this area as a launching point for attacks, as well as a hideout, due to the porous borders and difficult terrain.
Protecting Marte is therefore essential for several reasons:
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Strategic Military Importance: Securing Marte means cutting off insurgents’ routes and preventing further incursions into Nigeria’s heartland.
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Humanitarian Impact: Preventing displacement safeguards the lives of thousands and reduces the risk of youth recruitment into terrorist groups.
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Economic Recovery: Stability in Marte will enable the revival of trade and agriculture, essential for local and regional economic development.
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Symbolic Victory: Holding onto Marte sends a strong message to insurgents that communities will resist and reclaim their land.
What Needs to Be Done?
To ensure that Marte does not fall again into the hands of Boko Haram, several key actions are necessary:
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Increased Military Presence and Surveillance: Deploy more troops and enhance intelligence gathering in and around Marte.
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Community Engagement and Support: Empower local vigilante groups and volunteers who understand the terrain.
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Reconstruction and Rehabilitation: Invest in rebuilding infrastructure and providing essential services to resettled residents.
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Youth Empowerment Programs: Create job opportunities and educational initiatives to reduce the appeal of insurgency recruitment.
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Federal and State Government Collaboration: Ensure coordinated efforts and adequate funding to support security operations and humanitarian efforts.
Conclusion
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s urgent appeal to the Federal Government to protect Marte from Boko Haram insurgents highlights a critical moment in Borno State’s fight against terrorism. His visit to Marte and his clear call for decisive action underscore the importance of preserving this strategic town for the security, stability, and future prosperity of the entire region.
As Borno State continues to battle the insurgency, the unity between government agencies, security forces, and local communities will be key to reclaiming and rebuilding what has been lost. Marte’s survival is not just a local issue—it is a crucial piece in Nigeria’s broader struggle to restore peace and security in the northeast.
By supporting Governor Zulum’s call to action, Nigerians and the Federal Government can help ensure that towns like Marte remain safe, vibrant, and free from the shadow of terrorism.
For more updates on security developments and community resilience in Borno State, stay tuned to NaijaRush – your trusted source for reliable news and analysis in Nigeria.
