Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has praised President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria’s security agencies for securing the release of 434 residents of Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area who were abducted by insurgents during a deadly raid on the border town.
Speaking in Pulka on Monday during a reception for the freed captives, Zulum disclosed that 357 of the victims were released in the latest coordinated effort, while about 82 others had regained their freedom in phases over the past year, bringing the total number of released persons to 434.
The governor described the development as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in communities affected by insurgency in Borno State.
He specifically commended President Tinubu for his commitment to ending insecurity and for personally supporting efforts that led to the release of the abducted men, women and children.
“I want to express my deepest appreciation, on behalf of the government and people of Borno State and Gwoza community in particular, to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for all the efforts that he has been making in ensuring the return of peace and stability not only to Borno State but to the entire country,” Zulum said.
The governor also applauded the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security stakeholders for their collaboration and professionalism throughout the operation.
According to him, local security volunteers, including members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), forest guards, vigilantes and hunters, played significant roles in facilitating the captives’ freedom.
“I also want to use this opportunity to commend the Nigerian Armed Forces, the office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Security and all other security agencies, including our gallant Civilian JTF, Forest Guards, Vigilante and Hunters, who have participated immensely in ensuring the release of these abducted men, women and children,” he stated.
Zulum explained that while about 360 captives were released two days earlier, additional groups had regained freedom over the preceding weeks, resulting in the cumulative figure of 434.
The governor further revealed that the state government had committed substantial resources toward rebuilding Ngoshe community and preparing for the safe return of displaced residents.
“Government has released millions of naira to rehabilitate the Ngoshe community. So far, the work is nearly complete. We are also interfacing with the community about their return to Ngoshe; those that are willing to return, we are working with the Nigerian military to establish institutional arrangements that will ensure their safe and dignified return,” he said.
As part of immediate support measures, Zulum directed the distribution of food and non-food relief materials to the released captives and assured them of continued government assistance.
The rescued individuals are currently undergoing medical examinations and psychological counselling at a government facility before their eventual reintegration into their communities.
The release marks one of the largest recoveries of abducted civilians in recent months and is expected to provide renewed hope for communities still grappling with the effects of insurgency in the North-East.
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