Pulka, Borno State, Nigeria – Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has taken an unusual hands-on approach to security by spending the night in Pulka, a frontline community in Gwoza Local Government Area, following recent attacks in the region. His overnight stay marks a rare move by a sitting governor and underscores growing concerns over insecurity affecting communities near the border areas.
Okay News reports that Governor Zulum used the visit to hold high-level security meetings with military commanders, security agencies, and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force. Discussions focused on strengthening surveillance, improving response strategies, and preventing further attacks in Pulka, Ngoshe, and surrounding communities.
During the engagement, the governor emphasized that leadership requires sacrifice and direct engagement with affected populations rather than remote administration. He noted that his governance style has consistently involved visiting remote and vulnerable communities to assess their needs firsthand and coordinate immediate interventions.
Beyond security coordination, the governor also announced a large-scale humanitarian intervention targeting over 30,000 households affected by the recent violence. Residents of Ngoshe and Pulka received cash support, food supplies, and essential non-food items aimed at easing the hardship caused by displacement and instability.
Under the relief plan, household heads in Ngoshe are to receive cash grants, with additional support extended to women, alongside the distribution of mattresses, clothing, and staple food items including rice, maize, and guinea corn. The intervention also covers Pulka, which has experienced increased pressure due to the influx of displaced persons from neighbouring communities.
Governor Zulum further acknowledged contributions from the Federal Government and prominent businessman Aliko Dangote, whose donation of thousands of bags of rice is being distributed among vulnerable residents as part of the relief effort.
He urged residents to cooperate closely with security agencies, stressing that community intelligence remains critical in tackling insurgency and restoring peace. The governor reassured affected populations that both state and federal authorities remain committed to stabilizing the region and ensuring the safe return of normal life.
