Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has declared Monday, May 19, a day of voluntary fasting and prayer, calling on residents to seek divine intervention amid rising insecurity across the state.
Zulum made the announcement in a statewide broadcast on Saturday in Maiduguri, urging collective faith and unity in the fight against violence.
“In light of our current security challenges, I am calling on all residents of Borno State to unite in a collective act of faith and solidarity,” he said. “This Monday, I am inviting you to join me in a voluntary day of fasting and prayer for peace to reign in Borno State, the Northeast and indeed the entire country.”
He described the move as both spiritual and symbolic, meant to demonstrate resilience and shared hope among citizens.
“Fasting is more than a personal spiritual act; it is a communal expression of our shared hope,” he said. “Through prayer and reflection, we can strengthen our unity, renew our resilience, and restore our collective purpose.”
While emphasizing the importance of public participation, Zulum assured citizens that his administration is not relying on prayers alone.
“In recent months, I have held extensive consultations with our federal partners and the leadership of various security agencies,” he revealed. “Together, we are working on comprehensive strategies to strengthen our security architecture.”
He expressed gratitude for federal support, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Service Chiefs have pledged their full backing.
“We shall also strengthen our volunteer forces—CJTF, hunters, and vigilantes—and bolster community intelligence gathering,” Zulum added.
The governor also warned against aiding terrorists: “Let me warn against colluding with these armed groups… they are our collective enemy.”
Zulum used the broadcast to express condolences to fallen security personnel and also addressed the water shortage in Maiduguri caused by damaged infrastructure.
On rising urban crime, he announced the reactivation of the Anti-Social Vices Committee to tackle growing insecurity in the city.
“We will not allow criminal elements to destabilise the progress we are making, insha Allah,” he said.
Zulum ended the address with a message of hope: “With unity, perseverance, and faith, we shall all overcome, insha Allah.”
