Governor Zulum Storms Niger Republic, Seals Military Pact To Crush Insurgents Around Lake Chad

In a bold move to consolidate recent gains against terrorism, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Thursday embarked on a strategic mission to Diffa in the Niger Republic, where he met with top Nigerien authorities to forge stronger military and economic cooperation across the troubled Lake Chad basin.

The visit comes on the heels of fresh military victories over Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents in border communities — regions that still house thousands of Nigerian refugees displaced by years of brutal attacks.

Diffa, a border town barely 17 kilometres from Damasak in northern Borno, is one of the epicentres of displacement, currently sheltering thousands of families who fled relentless assaults from extremist fighters.

Governor Zulum, who led a high-powered delegation comprising key political and security figures, was warmly received by the Governor of Diffa Region, Brigadier General Mahamadou Ibrahim Bagadoma, alongside senior Nigerien officials.

The two leaders retreated into a closed-door session, where discussions centred on strengthening cross-border patrols, enhancing intelligence sharing, and consolidating fragile peace in recently liberated towns.

Speaking after the meeting, Governor Zulum declared:

> “My administration is determined to leverage the improved security atmosphere to ensure the safe return of displaced farmers to the fertile farmlands of Dutchi in the Lake Chad basin. Restoring farming activities is not just about livelihood — it is central to food security and long-term recovery of our region.”

The governor’s entourage included Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, a member of the House of Representatives, Engineer Bukar Talba, and several senior government officials, underscoring the importance of the mission.

Observers say Zulum’s diplomatic offensive is aimed at tightening the noose on insurgent remnants exploiting porous borders, while at the same time rekindling agricultural and economic lifelines critical to stabilizing the northeast.