Zulum Mobilises Fighters as Cameroonian Troops Withdraw from Borno Town

The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, has mobilised local fighters to protect border communities following the withdrawal of Cameroonian troops from Kirawa, a town in Gwoza Local Government Area.

The sudden exit of the foreign troops, who had been part of a joint regional effort against Boko Haram insurgents, has left the area vulnerable and sparked renewed violence.

According to reports, shortly after the Cameroonian forces withdrew, Boko Haram fighters invaded Kirawa, killing at least two residents and destroying properties.

More than 50 houses were reportedly set ablaze, along with eight vehicles and heavy-duty construction equipment. The attack has forced several residents to flee, raising fears of a humanitarian crisis in the affected community.

Governor Zulum, in response, directed the immediate mobilisation of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), local vigilantes, and community fighters to defend the town.

He also announced plans for a joint operation with the Nigerian Army to restore security and prevent further attacks.

Zulum expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation along the Nigeria–Cameroon border, warning that unprotected border areas could become safe havens for insurgents.

He stressed the need for continuous military presence and improved coordination between regional forces to sustain the progress made in the fight against terrorism.

The governor also appealed to the Nigerian military to ensure consistent deployment of troops rather than short-term operations, which he said often allow insurgents to regroup.

He promised to support the local security volunteers with logistics, equipment, and necessary resources to strengthen their efforts.

Beyond security measures, Zulum pledged to rebuild the damaged parts of Kirawa, provide relief materials to displaced residents, and explore technological means of monitoring the border communities.

The withdrawal of Cameroonian troops marks a setback for regional cooperation against Boko Haram, as joint military efforts between Nigeria and neighbouring countries have been instrumental in containing cross-border insurgent movements.

Analysts warn that without coordinated action, border towns like Kirawa, Baga, Wulgo, Damasak, and Malamfatori may continue to face repeated attacks.

The incident underscores the fragility of security gains in the Northeast and the urgent need for sustained collaboration among regional partners to protect communities along the Lake Chad basin.