In a bold move aimed at enhancing the security of Dikwa and its surrounding regions, the Borno State Government has donated five operational vehicles and 15 motorcycles to the Nigerian Army. This donation, made on Monday, December 9, 2024, underscores the state’s commitment to strengthening security infrastructure in the face of ongoing challenges posed by insurgency. Governor Babagana Zulum, who was represented by Deputy Governor Umar Kadafur, made the donation during his visit to the 24 Task Force Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Dikwa, a region that has long been at the forefront of military operations in the fight against insurgents.
The vehicles and motorcycles are part of the Borno State government’s broader efforts to support the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in their quest to maintain peace and order within the region. With security challenges continuing to disrupt normal life in the northeastern part of Nigeria, Zulum emphasised the critical need for equipping military personnel and local volunteers with the right resources to counteract insurgency and restore stability.
Strengthening Security Infrastructure
The donation consisted of five operational vehicles, with two designated for the Civilian Joint Task Force and three allocated to the Nigerian Army. The motorcycles, on the other hand, will be used to improve mobility in the difficult terrains of the region, where traditional vehicles often struggle to navigate.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum’s decision to donate these vehicles highlights the importance of mobility in modern security operations.
The Nigerian Army, along with the Civilian Joint Task Force, has been instrumental in ensuring the successful resettlement of displaced persons in Dikwa and other nearby areas. As residents begin to return to their homes after years of displacement caused by insurgency, the security forces’ role in protecting these communities cannot be overstated.
“The role of the military is pivotal in ensuring that our people feel safe and can return to their communities with a sense of security,” said Zulum during his visit. “These vehicles and motorcycles will enhance the ability of our security agencies to respond swiftly to any threats and further solidify the peace-building efforts across the state.”
A Symbol of Commitment to Peace
Brigadier-General Ezekiel Barkins, the commander of the 24 Task Force Brigade, was present to receive the donation, and he praised the Borno State Government for its unwavering support to the military. Barkins acknowledged that the vehicles would significantly improve the brigade’s operational efficiency, particularly in a region that has seen intense insurgent activity over the years.
“We are grateful for this gesture,” Brigadier General Barkins said, adding: “The donation of these vehicles and motorcycles will help us cover more ground, maintain a visible presence, and respond rapidly to any emergencies. With these resources, we are better equipped to serve the people of Borno and ensure their safety.”
The 24 Task Force Brigade has been at the heart of military operations in Borno, and its personnel have been involved in several high-profile operations aimed at curbing the activities of insurgents in the region. With the insurgency showing no signs of abating, the Nigerian Army’s role has become more crucial than ever.
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The Borno State Government’s donation is part of a broader strategy to bolster the military’s capacity and ensure that they remain prepared to respond to any security threats that may arise. Governor Zulum has repeatedly emphasised that the fight against insurgency is not only the responsibility of the military but requires a collaborative approach involving all stakeholders, including the government, the military, and local volunteers.
Collaboration with Local Volunteers
In his speech, Zulum also highlighted the significant contributions of local volunteers in the fight against insurgency. The Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) has been instrumental in supporting the military, especially in areas that require local knowledge and insight. The CJTF has become an integral part of the security apparatus, with many of its members being drawn from the very communities affected by the insurgency.
“We must continue to strengthen the synergy between the military and local volunteers,” Zulum said. “The success we have witnessed in some areas of Borno State is largely due to the collaboration between the army and the CJTF. These vehicles will further empower our local volunteers to carry out their duties effectively and ensure that peace is sustained.”
Local volunteers play a vital role in providing intelligence to the military, assisting in surveillance, and ensuring that insurgents do not infiltrate returning communities. The partnership between the Nigerian Army and the CJTF has led to the reclamation of several territories previously under the control of insurgents, contributing to the safe return of displaced persons to their homes.
The Road to Resettlement and Rebuilding
Dikwa, like many parts of Borno, has witnessed its fair share of devastation due to the insurgency. However, in recent months, the region has experienced a gradual return to normalcy, thanks in no small part to the efforts of the Nigerian Army and the CJTF. The donation of the operational vehicles and motorcycles will not only aid in security operations but also serve as a symbol of the government’s commitment to rebuilding the state.
The resettlement of displaced persons in Dikwa and other parts of Borno has been a priority for the Zulum administration. Since assuming office, Governor Zulum has prioritized rebuilding infrastructure, rehabilitating displaced persons, and restoring order to the region. The recent donation of security equipment is yet another step in ensuring that the people of Borno can live in peace, free from the fear of insurgent attacks.
A Call for Continued Vigilance
In his address, Zulum urged security agencies to remain vigilant and committed to their roles in safeguarding the lives and property of citizens. While significant progress has been made in restoring peace to Borno, the governor cautioned that the threat of insurgency is still present, and continued vigilance is necessary to prevent any resurgence of violence.
“We have made significant strides, but there is still much work to be done,” Zulum remarked. “We must remain vigilant, and our security forces must continue to protect our people and ensure that Borno remains safe.”
With the donation of these vehicles and motorcycles, Borno is reinforcing its commitment to restoring peace and ensuring that its residents can live without fear. The partnership between the state government, the military, and local volunteers is a testament to the power of collaboration in the fight against insurgency. As Borno continues its journey toward recovery, the Borno government’s support for its security forces remains a cornerstone of its strategy for peace and stability in the region.
. Abubakar is a 300 Level student of the Department of Mass Communication, Borno State University.
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