Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has raised alarm over the use of armed drones by Boko Haram terrorists to launch attacks on military formations in the state, describing the development as a frightening escalation of the insurgency and a direct threat to Nigeria’s national security.
Zulum, who spoke on Friday in Mafa town during a visit to assess the aftermath of a drone attack on a military base, called on the Federal Government to urgently review and strengthen the nation’s air defence and surveillance systems to prevent further incursions.
“The proliferation of drones, particularly in the hands of non-state actors, is a serious concern for the entire country. In Dikwa, I was told drones were used. This is frightening. We must act fast to stop the rampant use of armed drones,” Zulum warned.
The governor said the terrorists’ ability to deploy drones for offensive operations revealed a critical weakness in Nigeria’s airspace monitoring capability, urging the military high command to close the gaps before the threat spreads beyond Borno.
He stressed, “Our borders and airspace need to be strengthened. This is not an issue confined to Borno alone — it is a national security emergency that requires immediate attention.”
While commending the Nigerian Armed Forces for their continued efforts in the fight against insurgency, Zulum appealed to residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and activities in their communities.
“We are here to commiserate with the victims and to build confidence among our people. I urge the community and the Civilian JTF to be alert and share credible intelligence with the military,” he said.
Zulum also hinted at possible sabotage within the security architecture, saying credible intelligence had indicated a plan by insurgents to attack Mafa before the latest incident.
“Honestly speaking, we have credible intelligence that Mafa would be attacked, and this information was circulated to all relevant authorities. I believe there might be sabotage somewhere that must be identified and addressed,” he said.
The governor urged both state and federal authorities to work collaboratively with the military leadership to identify security lapses and develop a coordinated response.
“We don’t have to blame each other. This is the time for unity and decisive action,” he added.
Zulum’s warning comes days after reports that Boko Haram fighters used a drone to target a key military formation, killing several personnel and damaging equipment — a tactic previously unseen in the group’s operations.
The development has raised fears of a new phase in Nigeria’s counterinsurgency war, as terrorist groups appear to be adopting modern warfare technologies in the decade-long conflict.
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