Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians that the Federal Government will intensify military operations to end insurgency in the North-East, following fresh attacks in Borno State that claimed lives and led to abductions.
The Vice President gave the assurance on Saturday in a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha.
According to him, the Federal Government would deploy decisive measures and stronger military force to confront insurgents responsible for the recent violence in parts of the state.
“We remain one nation bound by a shared destiny, and the sanctity of human life is non-negotiable,” Shettima said.
“This madness will come to an end, not with mere rhetoric, but through the decisive and overwhelming force of the Nigerian state.”
He noted that security agencies were already mobilising additional tactical assets and intelligence-driven reinforcements to areas affected by the attacks.
Shettima described the recent incidents as a painful reminder of the lingering security challenges in the region but expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome the threats.
“The events of the past few days remind us that the shadow of terror still lingers,” he stated. “However, we choose light over darkness and hope over despair.”
The Vice President also revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had been briefed on the attacks and had ordered an immediate and comprehensive response from the country’s security architecture.
“The President has directed a swift and total mobilisation of the security structure,” Shettima said.
“The Federal Government will not allow any group seeking to displace our people or occupy any part of Nigeria’s territory to succeed.”
Recent attacks were reported in several communities, including Konduga, Marte, Jakana and Mainok, where insurgents launched coordinated assaults on military formations. In some locations, the attackers reportedly overran positions before troops received reinforcement.
Residents of Ngoshe in Gwoza Local Government Area were also abducted during one of the attacks.
Shettima condemned the violence and stressed that the government would ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
“We are not merely fighting a war,” he said.
“We are defending our collective humanity against those who spread hatred and violence, and we will not be intimidated by their brutal actions.”
He added that the administration would continue efforts to secure the release of abducted victims and support the families of those who lost their lives.
“Our hearts go out to the families of civilians and the brave soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty,” the Vice President said.
“This government will not rest until abducted citizens are safely reunited with their loved ones.”
Shettima also praised the resilience of residents of the state and the efforts of Governor Babagana Zulum, as well as the dedication of troops fighting insurgents on the frontlines.
President Tinubu had earlier expressed solidarity with the state government over the attacks during an interfaith breaking of fast with service chiefs, assuring the military of continued support in the fight against terrorism.
“We will overcome terrorism and banditry,” Tinubu said. “Nigeria will prevail.”
The North-East, particularly Borno State, has remained the centre of insurgent activities linked to Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province since 2009, despite years of military operations aimed at weakening the groups.
