Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum spent the entire Saturday night in Pulka, coordinating security efforts following recent attacks in Ngoshe, Pulka, and other communities in Gwoza Local Government Area.
This marks the first time a sitting governor has stayed overnight in Pulka, a community located 22 kilometres from Gwoza town.
Governor Zulum held a high-level security meeting with the Brigade Commander, military officers, security personnel, and civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) to discuss strategies for strengthening security across the general area.
“Leadership is not about living in your comfort zone and addressing people from afar, but coming directly to the doorsteps of the less privileged. This has been my tradition and culture since I assumed office,” Zulum said.
“I am always in remote areas attending to people, and I believe this is what leadership should be—now and until the end of my administration.”
Governor Zulum also disbursed cash, food, and non-food items to over 30,000 households affected by the recent attacks in Ngoshe and Pulka communities.
“Each male and female head of household in Ngoshe will receive N30,000, while married women will receive N20,000. Additionally, mattresses and clothing will be distributed to both men and women,” Zulum announced.
The intervention extends to Pulka, which has also been impacted by the influx of displaced persons from neighboring areas.
He acknowledged the support of the Federal Government and billionaire philanthropist Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who donated 30,000 bags of 10kg rice to support vulnerable populations in the state.
“Pulka community will benefit from this scheme. We are distributing both food and non-food items not only to Ngoshe but also Pulka, which is also a displacement-affected community,”
Governor Zulum urged residents of affected areas to remain patient and cooperate with security agencies.
“Information is a very valuable tool for addressing insecurity. Without the support of the community, insecurity will never end,” he said, assuring sustained efforts by both federal and state governments to restore lasting peace.
Distributed items included rice, maize, guinea corn, mattresses, and plastic mats.
Officials on the governor’s entourage included Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (representing Gwoza, Damboa, and Chibok at the National Assembly), Hon. Ahmed Jaha (Chairman, Palliative Distribution Committee, representing Monguno, Nganzai, Marte), Hon. Bukar Talba (representing Gwoza State Constituency), along with commissioners, special advisers, and other government officials.