Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has defended the Borno State Government’s expenditure of over ₦100 billion on security in 2025, insisting that the investments are essential for protecting lives and restoring public confidence.
In a statement signed by Yusuf Ali, Media Aide to Governor Mai Mala Buni.
It reads: “All these come at a colossal cost. ?Security is no longer cheap, especially in a state that has remained at the epicentre of insurgency for over a decade.
“Indeed, the large security vehicles procured within the last ten months alone represent only a fraction of the massive security assets acquired under Governor Zulum’s administration. Beyond the visible equipment are numerous other sophisticated security hardware and operational tools which, for strategic and security reasons, cannot be publicly itemised.
“However, the people of Borno do not need to see every asset listed to feel their impact. The evidence is all around us—in improved safety, faster response to threats, stronger security presence, and growing confidence among citizens.
“No matter how much Governor Zulum invests in security, one truth remains indisputable: the investments are visible, measurable, and deeply felt by the people of Borno and visitors alike. Markets are reopening. Farmers are returning to their fields. Communities once deserted are slowly breathing again. These are not media impressions; they are lived realities.”
Governor Zulum said the era when security logistics were handled solely by the Federal Government is over.
He explained that the Borno State Government now directly funds and supports security operations, including procurement of armoured vehicles, provision of fuel and logistics, welfare and allowances for troops and security personnel, construction and rehabilitation of security formations, intelligence and surveillance operations, and care for families of fallen officers.
The governor stressed that the investments are already making a tangible difference. Reports indicate stronger patrols, quicker responses to threats, and increased public confidence. Markets are reopening, farmers are returning to their fields, and communities previously abandoned due to insurgency are gradually recovering.
Governor Zulum also addressed critics who have questioned the spending, asserting that deliberate attempts to politicise security initiatives would not undermine the administration’s efforts.
“Every patrol on the highway, every secured community, every successful operation supported by state resources is a clear testament to purposeful leadership,” the statement added.