Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has raised alarm over the recent resurgence of Boko Haram attacks across the North-East, warning that the use of new technologies by the terrorists poses a growing threat to peace and development in the region.
Speaking on Thursday during the 11th North East Governors’ Forum (NEGF) meeting in Damaturu, Buni called for urgent collaboration between state governments, federal authorities, and security agencies to address the renewed wave of violence.
“This should be critically examined with the aim of developing a strong working synergy among states, the Federal Government, and security agencies,” Buni said. “We must act fast to consolidate the gains achieved in peace, security, and socio-economic development over the years.”
Governor Buni expressed concern that if swift and coordinated steps are not taken, the region could lose the progress made in stabilising communities affected by over a decade of insurgency. He recommended that the resolutions from the meeting be shared immediately with security chiefs and federal stakeholders to ensure timely and effective responses.
Since its establishment, the NEGF has served as a platform for collaboration among the six North-Eastern states—Yobe, Borno, Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, and Taraba—focusing on security, regional development, and humanitarian support.
“This meeting offers us an opportunity to reflect on the implementation of past resolutions, examine the challenges we still face, and proffer workable alternatives,” Buni said.
Beyond security, the governor urged his counterparts to focus on regional economic growth by developing agriculture. He said agriculture has the potential to reduce unemployment and overdependence on federal allocations.
“We must make agriculture attractive, affordable, and profitable by providing machinery, equipment, and input support to harness our vast arable lands and human capital,” he said.
Governor Buni also expressed appreciation for the presence of his fellow governors, describing it as a strong sign of unity and commitment to the region’s progress. He extended gratitude to the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its support, and pledged the forum’s continued backing for national policies and reforms.
He paid special tribute to the military, Civilian Joint Task Force, and other volunteer groups for their sacrifices in defending the region. He also thanked both local and international development partners for supporting recovery, reconstruction, and resettlement efforts across North-East states.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, said that addressing rising hardship and poverty is key to tackling the root causes of terrorism. He called on the Nigerian military to review its current strategy in the fight against Boko Haram and other terror groups.
Zulum urged citizens to support government and security agencies by providing information and remaining vigilant. He emphasised that lasting peace will only be possible through the combined efforts of government, security forces, and local communities.
The meeting is expected to review joint regional projects, security strategies, humanitarian responses, and future development plans aimed at restoring long-term peace and prosperity in the North-East.
