Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has declared Monday, November 24, 2025, a statewide day of fasting and prayer as insecurity intensifies across several northern states.
Zulum made the announcement in a televised message aired on Channels Television on Saturday, urging residents to seek divine intervention for lasting peace and prosperity in Borno and Nigeria at large.
The governor said the call became necessary following renewed attacks on schools and religious institutions in parts of the North. In recent days, communities in Kwara, Kebbi and Niger states have recorded deadly assaults and mass abductions.
“In Kwara State, schools were shut in four local government areas after an attack on a church claimed lives and led to the abduction of worshippers,” Zulum said.
“In Kebbi, 25 schoolgirls were taken from a boarding school in Maga, and in Niger State, over 300 children and a dozen teachers were kidnapped in Papiri.”
Speaking with emotion, Zulum reminded citizens of Borno’s history of resilience in the face of the Boko Haram insurgency.
“For 15 years, our state has endured the pain of insurgency, with millions displaced and livelihoods shattered,” he said. “I speak to you not only as your governor, but as a fellow citizen who shares your hope and patriotism.”
He commended residents for standing with security agencies during the height of the insurgency and for uniting beyond ethnic, religious and sectional lines.
“By the grace of God, we overcame our darkest days because we stood as one people with a common purpose,” the governor noted. “Your resilience has continued to inspire this administration.”
Zulum also highlighted the progress recorded in the agricultural sector due to the relative peace achieved in recent years.
“Many farmers were able to cultivate crops this season, and we are expecting a promising harvest capable of sustaining households for up to two years,” he said.
He added that the state government would continue providing inputs and agrochemicals to support year-round farming.
Despite acknowledging that isolated attacks still occur, Zulum urged the public to remain steadfast in faith.
“As people of faith, we know that our security strategies must be backed by prayers,” he said. “I therefore declare Monday as a day of fasting and prayer for the restoration of peace in Borno and across our nation.”
He called on residents of all religious backgrounds to participate.
“Regardless of your faith, I ask that we join together to seek God’s mercy and pray for enduring peace and prosperity,” Zulum appealed.
The governor assured citizens that his administration would continue to support the military, strengthen community vigilante groups and explore dialogue where appropriate, without compromising public safety.
The declaration mirrors a similar statewide prayer and fasting event held in May 2025, which Zulum personally led in Rann, one of the communities worst affected by years of insurgency.
“We will not relent,” he concluded. “Together, with faith and unity, we shall overcome.”
