Nigerian governor warns of Boko Haram comeback

The governor of Borno state in Nigeria has raised concerns. He warned that Boko Haram is making a comeback. The group has staged several attacks and taken control of areas in the northeast.

Governor Babagana Zulum is calling for more military support. He believes soldiers need assistance to fight the insurgency.

The Nigerian government disagrees with the governor's fears. They claim security has improved over the last 18 months.

Borno state has faced a 15-year insurgency from Boko Haram. This conflict has forced over two million people to flee their homes and killed more than 40,000.

In 2015, Boko Haram controlled large areas of Borno state but was pushed back. The group gained global attention in April 2014 when they kidnapped over 270 schoolgirls from Chibok.

Recently, militants have targeted army bases, police stations, and rural communities again. In January, an ambush by a breakaway faction killed at least 20 Nigerian soldiers. Another attack during this time left 40 farmers dead.

Governor Zulum expressed his disappointment about daily attacks and kidnappings in many communities. During a meeting with national security officials, he stated that Borno State is "losing ground" against jihadists.

Security analysts note that troop concentration in north-western Nigeria affects Borno's defenses. Fewer troops are available to confront Boko Haram due to efforts against banditry and kidnappings.

The situation worsened when Niger withdrew its troops from a regional force aimed at combating Boko Haram. Analyst Hamisu Sani told the BBC that defeating Boko Haram is challenging but not impossible.

He emphasized that even if weakened, Boko Haram can regroup and remain a threat. The key solution would be to completely crush the fighters with adequate military support.