By Chioma Vivian James
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive intervention and unwavering commitment that culminated in the release of 434 residents of Ngoshe community who endured more than a year in captivity following a devastating terrorist attack.
Speaking during a reception for the freed captives in Pulka on Monday, Governor Zulum described the development as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to restore peace, security, and stability to communities ravaged by insurgency in Borno State.
The governor disclosed that the latest batch of released victims comprised 357 men, women, and children, while an additional 77 persons had regained their freedom in smaller groups over the past several months, bringing the total number of rescued captives to 434.
The victims were abducted from Ngoshe, a strategic border community in Gwoza Local Government Area, during a violent raid by suspected Boko Haram insurgents. Their release marks the end of a painful chapter for hundreds of families who had lived in uncertainty and anguish since the attack.
Expressing profound gratitude to President Tinubu, Governor Zulum noted that the President’s personal commitment to peace and security significantly accelerated efforts that eventually secured the captives’ freedom.
“On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, particularly the people of Gwoza and Ngoshe communities, I wish to express my deepest appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his steadfast commitment to restoring peace, security, and stability not only in Borno State but across Nigeria,” Zulum stated.
The governor also paid glowing tribute to the National Security Adviser, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies whose coordinated operations made the rescue possible.
He further acknowledged the critical role played by local security volunteers, including members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), Forest Guards, Vigilante Groups, and Hunters, describing their contributions as invaluable to the success of the operation.
“I commend the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, and all security agencies, including our gallant Civilian JTF, Forest Guards, Vigilantes, and Hunters, who worked tirelessly and sacrificed immensely to secure the release of these abducted women, children, and other community members,” he said.
Providing further insight into the operation, Zulum explained that the latest group of captives regained their freedom through a coordinated effort completed only days earlier, while others had been released progressively over recent weeks and months.
“What we witnessed this morning was the reception of about 357 persons released just two days ago. Combined with those who had earlier regained their freedom, the total number of released captives now stands at 434,” he noted.
Beyond celebrating the successful rescue, Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to rebuilding Ngoshe and supporting the safe return of displaced residents. He revealed that the state government had already invested millions of naira in reconstruction projects aimed at restoring essential infrastructure and improving living conditions in the community.
According to him, rehabilitation works in Ngoshe are nearing completion, while consultations are ongoing with residents and security stakeholders to facilitate a safe, voluntary, and dignified return of displaced families.
“Government has committed substantial resources towards the rehabilitation of Ngoshe community, and the projects are nearing completion. For those willing to return, we are working closely with the Nigerian military to establish institutional frameworks that will guarantee their safety and sustainable resettlement,” the governor explained.
As part of immediate humanitarian support, Zulum directed the distribution of food supplies and other relief materials to all the rescued victims. He also assured that the returnees would continue to receive comprehensive medical care, psychosocial support, and rehabilitation services to help them recover from the trauma of captivity.
Officials disclosed that the rescued individuals are currently undergoing medical examinations and psychological assessments at a government facility before being reintegrated into their respective communities.
The successful release of the Ngoshe captives represents one of the most significant humanitarian achievements in Borno State’s ongoing fight against insurgency and offers renewed hope for thousands of families affected by years of conflict in Nigeria’s North-East region.
