Governor Zulum Commends Operation HADIN KAI for Major Counter-Terrorism Success
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has praised the Nigerian military for the successful rescue of 360 abducted civilians from a Boko Haram stronghold located in the Mandara Mountains of southern Borno State.
The operation, carried out by troops of Operation HADIN KAI, marks another significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against insurgency and terrorism in the North-East region.
Massive Rescue Operation Brings Hope to Affected Communities
The rescued victims, comprising men, women, and children, had been held captive by terrorists in the rugged Mandara Mountain area, long regarded as a hideout for insurgent groups.
Governor Zulum described the operation as a clear demonstration of courage, professionalism, and the effectiveness of intelligence-driven military operations.
According to him, the successful rescue has renewed hope among communities that have suffered years of attacks, abductions, and displacement due to insurgent activities.
Zulum’s Previous Visits to Ngoshe and Pulka
The governor had earlier visited Ngoshe on March 6, 2026, to assess the situation of residents affected by terrorist attacks.
Two weeks later, he spent the night with displaced victims in Pulka, Gwoza Local Government Area, assuring them of both federal and state government efforts to secure the release of those still in captivity.
During his visit to Ngoshe, Zulum also directed the immediate assessment and reconstruction of houses destroyed by insurgents to facilitate the return of displaced residents to their ancestral homes.
Appreciation to President Tinubu and Military Leadership
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, Governor Zulum expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, and all officers and soldiers involved in the rescue mission.
”I wish to express my profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, officers, and soldiers who participated in this highly successful operation,” the governor stated.
He noted that the bravery and sacrifices of the troops reflect the unwavering commitment of Nigeria’s Armed Forces to protecting citizens and restoring peace in conflict-affected communities.
Victory Against Terrorism in the North-East
Governor Zulum described the rescue of 360 abductees as a major achievement in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency campaign.
He emphasized that the success underscores the importance of inter-agency collaboration, intelligence sharing, and coordinated military operations.
According to him, the operation demonstrates that security forces remain committed to ensuring that no citizen is abandoned in the hands of terrorists.
Security experts have consistently highlighted the importance of sustained military pressure and community cooperation in weakening terrorist networks operating across the North-East.
Communities Recognized for Their Support
The governor also commended local residents and community leaders for their cooperation with security agencies. He noted that credible information provided by community members has continued to play a vital role in successful military operations across the state.
Borno Government Pledges Continued Support
Governor Zulum reaffirmed the commitment of the Borno State Government to supporting the military and other security agencies through logistics and strategic assistance to sustain ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
He stressed that collaboration between government institutions, security agencies, and local communities remains essential to achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.
Hope Remains for Remaining Captives
The governor urged residents of Mussa in Askira/Uba Local Government Area to remain hopeful, assuring them that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of schoolchildren and other individuals still being held captive by terrorists.
He further called on citizens across Borno State to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence to support efforts aimed at eliminating criminal and terrorist activities.
Renewed Commitment to Peace and Security
The successful rescue of 360 abductees represents a major milestone in the fight against Boko Haram insurgency and highlights the determination of the Nigerian military to protect lives and secure vulnerable communities. As security operations continue, residents across Borno State remain hopeful that sustained military efforts will lead to lasting peace, reconstruction, and the safe return of all remaining captives.