COAS reiterates Army’s commitment to ending insurgency in North East

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olatubosun Oluyede, has reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to ending the 15-year insurgency in the North East.

The COAS stated this on Thursday during a courtesy call on Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno in Maiduguri.

He emphasised the need for enhanced collaboration to bring lasting peace in the region.

Oluyede, who described his visit as a “homecoming” also acknowledged the critical role Borno had played in supporting the Nigerian Army’s operations over the years.

He praised the governor for his relentless efforts in combating insecurity, highlighting his dedication to the resettlement and stabilisation of communities affected by the insurgency.

“We must commend Gov. Zulum for his passion and unyielding commitment to addressing the insecurity within the region. Together, we can bring an end to this insurgency,” the COAS said.

Oluyede also assured the people of Borno of the Army’s continued determination to degrade the remnants of insurgent groups and restore normalcy across affected areas.

In response, Zulum expressed gratitude for the Army’s contributions to stabilising the region, commending officers and men of Operation HADIN KAI for their resilience.

Zulum noted the importance of complementing military operations with stabilisation efforts, such as resettlement, reconstruction, and economic revitalisation of affected communities.

He recounted past efforts, including the challenges faced during the resettlement of displaced communities like Baga, noting the positive outcomes the initiatives have had on reducing insurgent activities.

“Without addressing the socio-economic dimensions of insurgency, we cannot achieve sustainable peace. Stabilisation mechanisms, alongside military efforts, are crucial,” Zulum said.

He assured the Army of the full support of the Borno government and the North-East Governors’ Forum to achieve their shared mission.

Zulum proposed further deployments of security personnel to strategic locations across Borno to ensure sustained stability and economic recovery.

“The deployments to key locations in Guzamala, Kareto and Malam Fatori will stabilize reclaimed territories and support agricultural and economic recovery,” he said

Zulum stressed the need for rehabilitation, reconstruction, and resettlement of displaced communities to ensure sustainable peace, referencing the United Nations Security Council’s 2017 resolution on stabilisation mechanisms.

He recounted his bold resettlement initiatives in areas like Baga and Kukawa despite repeated attacks by insurgents, emphasising the importance of restoring economic hubs like the Lake Chad shores.

Zulum pledged the support of the North-east Governors Forum to the Army and praised the resilience of the people and security personnel working to restore peace in the region.