…Operation Restores Hope to Ngoshe Communities as Governor Pledges Continued Support for Security Efforts
By Chioma Vivian James
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has commended the Nigerian military, particularly troops of Operation HADIN KAI, for the successful rescue of 360 abductees from the Mandara Mountains, a notorious terrorist enclave and long-standing hideout for insurgents in southern Borno State.
The rescued victims, comprising men, women, and children, had been held captive by terrorists under difficult conditions before the military operation secured their freedom. The development marks a major milestone in ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability across communities affected by insurgency in the North-East.
Governor Zulum’s commendation follows months of sustained engagement with affected communities. On March 6, 2026, the governor visited the people of Ngoshe to assess the situation firsthand and reassure residents of the government’s commitment to their safety. Two weeks later, he spent the night in Pulka, Gwoza Local Government Area, where many displaced victims had sought refuge, pledging that both the Federal Government and the Borno State Government would work tirelessly to secure the release of those still in captivity.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, Governor Zulum described the rescue mission as a remarkable demonstration of bravery, professionalism, and the increasing effectiveness of intelligence-driven military operations against insurgent groups.
According to the governor, the successful operation has rekindled hope among affected communities and reinforced public confidence in the determination of government and security agencies to protect citizens and defeat terrorism.
“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, as well as the officers and soldiers who participated in this highly successful operation. Their gallantry, professionalism, and sacrifice have once again demonstrated the unwavering commitment of our Armed Forces to protecting innocent citizens,” Zulum stated.
Describing the rescue as a significant achievement in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign, the governor noted that the operation highlighted the value of intelligence gathering, strategic coordination, and inter-agency collaboration.
“The rescue of 360 abductees from a Boko Haram stronghold is a major accomplishment. It underscores the effectiveness of collaboration among security agencies and the determination of our forces to ensure that no Nigerian is abandoned in the hands of terrorists,” he added.
Beyond celebrating the successful rescue, Governor Zulum also visited Ngoshe town, where he ordered an immediate assessment of damaged infrastructure and directed the reconstruction of homes destroyed during terrorist attacks. The initiative is aimed at facilitating the safe return of displaced residents currently taking refuge in Pulka and other communities to their ancestral homes.
The governor further acknowledged the crucial role played by local communities, whose cooperation, vigilance, and support for security agencies contributed significantly to the success of the operation.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to security, Zulum pledged continued logistical and operational support to the military and other security agencies to sustain ongoing gains in the fight against insurgency and terrorism.
He also appealed to residents of Mussa community in Askira/Uba Local Government Area not to lose hope regarding the release of schoolchildren still in captivity, assuring them that efforts are ongoing to secure their freedom.
Governor Zulum concluded by urging citizens across Borno State to remain vigilant, support security agencies with credible information, and continue working collectively toward the restoration of lasting peace and security throughout the state.
The rescue operation stands as one of the most significant humanitarian and military successes recorded in recent months, offering renewed optimism that sustained collaboration between government, security forces, and local communities can ultimately bring an end to the scourge of insurgency in the North-East.
