Christians in Borno State Warned Not to Be Fooled by Governor Zulum’s Rhetoric on Religious Tolerance

An opinion piece by Ishaya Malgwi warns Christians in Borno State against being swayed by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s public gestures promoting religious tolerance. Despite claims of harmony, Christians continue to face systemic marginalization under Zulum’s administration, including denial of Christian Religious Knowledge in schools, political exclusion, neglect of displaced persons, and restrictions on NGO aid in Christian communities.
The article stresses that symbolic acts like sponsoring pilgrimages or visiting Christian refugees cannot substitute for meaningful policy changes. Advocates call for equal access to education, fair resettlement of displaced Christians, political representation, prompt payment of pensions, and unhindered humanitarian assistance.

#BornoState #ChristianRights #ReligiousTolerance #GovernorZulum #NigeriaPolitics #HumanRights #ReligiousFreedom #IDPs #SocialJustice #NigeriaNews

Governor Zulum performs groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of fourty eight classroom at Higher Islamic college and inaugurates newly constructed Day Secondary school in Fikayel, Bayo Local Government.
The High Islamic College and the twenty classrooms of three blocks will provide access to to education for drop outs and graduates of non formal schools at the rural communities.

UN Condemns Maiduguri Mosque Suicide Bombing, Urges Enhanced Security As Insecurity Persists In Borno

The United Nations has strongly condemned a suicide bomb attack on a mosque at Gamboru Market in Maiduguri, Borno State, which occurred on Wednesday evening during prayers and resulted in multiple deaths and injuries. The attack has intensified fears over the persistent insecurity plaguing Nigeria’s North-East region, particularly during the festive season.

In a statement issued on Christmas Day, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, described the incident as a grave assault on civilians and a direct violation of freedom of worship. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the victims, the Borno State Government, and residents of the state, while wishing the injured a speedy recovery.

Fall joined Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, in condemning the “heinous attack” and echoed the governor’s call for heightened vigilance and stronger security measures during the festive period and beyond. He warned that the bombing was part of a disturbing pattern of violent attacks recorded in Borno State in 2025, with civilians continuing to bear the brunt of the conflict.

Recalling previous deadly incidents, including the September 5 attack on Darajamal in Bama Local Government Area where over 50 civilians were killed, the UN official highlighted the continued use of suicide bombings, improvised explosive devices, and targeted assaults against communities, displaced persons, farmers, traders, and travellers.

Reaffirming the UN’s stance, Fall urged all parties involved in the conflict to prioritise the protection of civilians and respect international humanitarian and human rights laws. He assured that the United Nations would continue to support government efforts and provide humanitarian assistance to communities affected by the ongoing conflict in north-east Nigeria.

Northern Governors Condemn Maiduguri Mosque Suicide Bombing, Mourn Slain Kano Lawmakers

The Northern States Governors’ Forum has strongly condemned the suicide bombing that struck the Gomboru Market Mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the attack as barbaric, cowardly and a grave violation of religious sanctity. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening during Maghrib prayers, when a suspected suicide bomber infiltrated the mosque, killing five worshippers and injuring at least 35 others, turning a sacred moment of worship into tragedy.

In a statement issued by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, through his Director-General of Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governors expressed deep sorrow over the attack and extended condolences to the government and people of Borno State, particularly Governor Babagana Zulum, as well as the families of the victims and those injured. The forum stressed that attacks on places of worship offend human conscience and are intended to instil fear, but vowed that such acts would only strengthen the region’s unity and resolve against terrorism and violent extremism.

The governors urged security agencies and authorities in Borno State not to be discouraged, noting that terrorism thrives on fear and division. They called for sustained and intensified efforts to eliminate terrorism and restore lasting peace, while also advocating enhanced security around places of worship and public spaces, especially during festive periods marked by large gatherings. The forum reaffirmed its solidarity with Borno State and pledged full support as security agencies work to prevent further attacks.

In addition, the Northern Governors’ Forum mourned the deaths of two serving members of the Kano State House of Assembly, Aminu Sa’ad Ungogo and Sarki Aliyu Daneji, describing their passing as a painful loss to Kano State and democratic governance. The governors extended condolences to the Kano State Government, the legislature, and the families of the deceased lawmakers, praying for eternal rest for the departed and strength for those they left behind.

Islamic Cleric Says Muslims Can Eat Christmas Food Given by Christians, Debunks Myths

An Islamic cleric has addressed the ongoing debate on whether Muslims can consume food prepared for Christmas by Christians. Speaking in a trending video shared on social media, the cleric clarified that there is nothing wrong with Muslims eating Christmas food, dismissing claims that such food constitutes a sacrifice for idolatrous worship. He also emphasized that the use of the Gregorian calendar to fix Christmas celebrations does not amount to idolatry.
The cleric highlighted that those opposed to Muslims eating Christmas food due to the calendar should reconsider their use of other devices and systems tied to the Gregorian calendar, including international passports and mobile phones. His statements, shared by social media user @SameAsake on X, have sparked widespread discussion, with many Nigerians supporting the cleric’s reasoning and advocating religious tolerance and harmony.
The debate comes amid other Christmas activities in Nigeria, including Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State distributing food items to over 6,000 Christian widows and vulnerable persons, including internally displaced persons, to promote peace and inclusivity. However, incidents of crime, such as armed bandits seizing Christmas food in Kaduna State, highlight ongoing security challenges.
The cleric’s message reinforces unity and coexistence, encouraging Nigerians to view each other as brothers and sisters regardless of religion, and to celebrate shared values of generosity and goodwill during festive seasons.

Police Begin Screening Church and Mosque Worshippers in Borno After Maiduguri Suicide Bombing Kills Five, Injures Dozens

Security agencies in Borno State have intensified safety measures around places of worship following a deadly suicide bombing at a mosque in Maiduguri that claimed at least five lives and left dozens injured. The attack, which occurred around 6pm on Wednesday at the Al-Adum Mosque in Gamboru Market during Maghrib prayers, prompted authorities to introduce mandatory screening of worshippers entering churches and mosques across the state.

According to reports, the Borno State Police Command has deployed more than 1,000 officers across Maiduguri and other strategic locations to ensure heightened security during the Christmas season and ongoing Muslim prayers. Police spokesperson Nahum Daso confirmed that security personnel have been stationed at churches, mosques, recreational centres and other crowded areas, with worshippers now required to undergo security checks before gaining entry.

Daso explained that although security arrangements were already in place prior to the attack, the latest incident forced law enforcement agencies to further strengthen their presence and operations. He noted that the affected area was immediately cordoned off after the explosion to protect the public and allow emergency responders to carry out their duties.

The police described the operation as a joint effort involving all security and emergency response teams, stressing that full security domination would be maintained across key locations. Residents were urged to remain vigilant, be cautious of their surroundings and promptly report suspicious activities or individuals using designated emergency numbers.

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric, inhumane and a desecration of the sanctity of a place of worship. He expressed sadness over the loss of lives and injuries sustained by worshippers, assuring residents that adequate security measures had been put in place to prevent further attacks during the festive period and beyond.

Borno State Governor, Prof Zulum Condemns Suicide Bomb Blast In Gamboru Market

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum has condemned, in strong terms, a suicide attack at Gomboru market mosque in Maiduguri metropolis on Wednesday evening.

A suspected suicide bomber sneaked into the mosque while worshippers were performing the Maghrib prayer, killing five people and injuring 35 others.

Governor Zulum called for increased vigilance and heightened security measures, particularly in places of worship during the festive period.

He said attacking a place of worship is a desecration of the sanctity of the mosque at a time when Muslim faithful are performing acts of worship.

Professor Zulum extends his condolences to the families of all those that lost their lives in the attack and prays for the repose of their souls and for the speedy recovery of those injured.

The Governor assured that adequate measures have been taken to forestall any security breach during the festive period and beyond.

Borno: Zulum gifts food items for Christian widows, vulnerable

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has distributed essential food items to widows and vulnerable members of the Christian community in preparation for the upcoming Christmas celebrations.

Over 6,000 people will benefit from the gesture, including 1,605 IDPs who have each received a bag of rice, 1 carton of spaghetti, and 1 gallon of cooking oil.

This year’s event, which took place on Monday, marks the continuation of a consistent policy of support since his inauguration in 2019, for the past five years.

Tinubu Commissions 3,620 Electric Vehicles, Schools, and Infrastructure Projects in Borno

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned 3,620 electric vehicles in Borno State, including 3,000 electric bicycles, 500 tricycles, 100 cars, and 20 buses, to enhance affordable transport and mobility. The president also inaugurated newly built schools under Governor Babagana Zulum’s 104 Mega School Initiative in Maiduguri, aimed at rebuilding education infrastructure after years of insurgency. Tinubu praised the Borno government for prioritizing people-focused governance, infrastructure recovery, and social development. The visit included political figures such as Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, former governors Ali Modu Sheriff and Abdulaziz Yari, as well as ministers Festus Keyamo and Abubakar Kyari.

The closing ceremony of the 2025 National Quranic competition has in attendance the wife of the vice president ,Nana Shettima, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, traditional leaders and Islamic scholars across the country as well as other dignitaries and top government officials.

Borno state Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum launches empowerment of 3500 GSM marketers, trains and equipped 1,050 GSM Technicians.
The programme is part of post insurgency economic recovery efforts of the state government, and providing livelihood to entreprenuers and other citizens across the state.

Return home, get N500,000.

~ Borno state Governor, Zulum woos Borno refugees in Cameroon to return home

Sowore Questions Zulum’s ₦7B Boko Haram Rehabilitation Spending Amid Worsening Insecurity

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has criticised Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum over claims that his administration spent ₦7 billion on rehabilitating Boko Haram fighters and ₦100 billion on security in 2025. Reacting to a report by Daily Trust, Sowore said the figures raise serious concerns about transparency, especially as communities in Borno continue to suffer deadly attacks. He argued that the rehabilitation programme has not improved security and called for an independent audit of all security-related spending. Sowore warned that without accountability, the public cannot trust that these massive funds are being used effectively to combat terrorism.

We have spent N100bn on security this year.

~ Borno state Governor Zulum

Do you believe him?

BREAKING: Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, has firmly stated that the Boko Haram conflict is not a religious crisis, directly addressing the leadership of the Muslim and Christian faiths in the state and calling for reconciliation and harmony among all residents.

Zulum Declares Statewide Fasting and Prayer as Attacks Rise Across Northern Nigeria

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has declared Monday, November 24, 2025, as a statewide day of fasting and prayer for peace and prosperity in Borno and across Nigeria. He made the announcement in a televised address on Saturday.

The governor’s declaration comes amid a surge in violent attacks targeting schools and religious centres in northern Nigeria. In Kwara State, schools in four local government areas were shut after a church attack left at least two worshippers dead and others abducted. In Kebbi, 25 schoolgirls were kidnapped from a boarding school in Maga, while a vice-principal was killed. In Niger State, gunmen abducted 303 children and 12 teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri.

Zulum said the past 15 years of Boko Haram insurgency had deeply affected Borno, displacing millions and disrupting livelihoods. He noted that the relative peace recently achieved has boosted farming activities and that the state government remains committed to supporting agriculture for food security.

He called on all residents—regardless of religion—to join in the statewide fast and prayers, stressing that spiritual intervention is needed alongside security measures. Zulum urged citizens to seek God’s mercy and pray for lasting peace in Borno and the nation.

Borno Spent ₦2.6bn on “Repentant” Boko Haram Members as Soldiers Warn of Leaks.

A review of Borno State’s 2025 third-quarter budget performance shows ₦2.6 billion was spent on “livelihood support for repentant Boko Haram members” between January and September, with ₦758.1 million disbursed in July–September alone.

The document also reveals limited health capital spending: the Primary Healthcare Development Board received ₦2.076 billion of an ₦8.7 billion budget for the period, while the Hospitals Management Board spent just ₦1.2 billion against a ₦10.5 billion appropriation.

Meanwhile, frontline soldiers in Yobe and Borno told SaharaReporters that some government-backed “repentant” insurgents have been leaking sensitive military information — including troop routines, weapon locations and base alarm points — to their former commanders. 

One soldier said repentant fighters routinely inform terrorists about camp schedules (noting evenings between 4:00pm and 7:00pm) and the location of armouries containing rifles, GMPGs, RPGs, PKTs, grenades and explosives, making troops “extremely vulnerable.”

The reports note that, despite billions spent on reintegration, attacks by the same sects persist. 

In April, Governor Babagana Zulum warned of Boko Haram regrouping around Lake Chad and the Mandara Hills and said the state has received more than 300,000 repentants in three years. 

He urged greater military manpower, more air support, sophisticated drones and anti-drone systems, and a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to curb the growing threat.

Fresh Boko Haram Attacks: Gov Zulum Laments That His Warning to the Military Was Ignored.

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has expressed concern over renewed Boko Haram attacks in Kirawa, Gwoza LGA, following the withdrawal of Cameroonian troops who had been securing the area.

Zulum, who visited the town on Friday with Civilian JTF and Nigerian troops, said he had earlier warned the military about the dangers of leaving border communities like Kirawa unprotected.

“I duly notified the Nigerian military of the dangers of leaving this town without security. Wilgo, Kirawa, Baga, Damasak, Malamfatori and others are strategic border communities that must be protected,” he said, according to Daily Trust.

Despite the warning, insurgents invaded on Wednesday, destroying infrastructure and homes. “Unfortunately, my request did not receive the deserved attention.

The insurgents came and vandalised everything we worked hard to rebuild. Two lives were lost, 50 houses, heavy-duty equipment, and eight vehicles were burnt,” he said.

Zulum disclosed that the Nigerian Army has agreed to redeploy troops, while the state will support the Civilian JTF and vigilante groups with logistics and protective gear. He also appealed to the federal government to release funds for military operations as the rainy season ends, stressing that irregular operations had emboldened insurgents.

“What matters is not the number of soldiers but their commitment to fight,” he added.

According to Reuters, more than 5,000 residents fled to Cameroon after insurgents seized Kirawa on Thursday, burning a military base, the district head’s palace, and dozens of homes. Boko Haram later released a video claiming responsibility for the attack.

The latest assault comes barely two weeks after a similar raid on Banki, another border town, where insurgents overran a military base and seized weapons.

Senseless Violence,’ Atiku Condemns Borno Attack, Calls For End To Killings


Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the Boko Haram attack on Darajamal, Borno State, where five soldiers and 58 civilians were killed.

Describing the assault as “senseless violence,” Atiku expressed grief over the loss of lives and commiserated with the bereaved families, Governor Babagana Zulum, and the people of Borno.

“My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families, the resilient people of Borno, and Governor Zulum. May Almighty Allah grant the departed Al-Jannah Firdaus and comfort their loved ones,” Atiku said in a statement on X.

He urged Nigeria to confront terrorism with unity and renewed determination, stressing that the sacrifices of soldiers and civilians must inspire stronger security and deeper collaboration.

The insurgents also destroyed over 20 houses, vehicles, food items, and valuables belonging to resettled IDPs. Governor Zulum and the UN have both condemned the killings.

Atiku condemns the Borno attack that killed 63 people, calling it senseless violence and urging unity to end terrorism. He condoled with victims’ families and praised Gov. Zulum’s compassion.

#Borno #Atiku #EndViolence