Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called for stronger cooperation between the military, government and residents of Borno State to defeat terrorism in the North East.
Shaibu made the call on Saturday during a visit to Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, at the Government House in Maiduguri.
The Army Chief said public support, timely intelligence sharing and collaboration with security agencies were important to achieving lasting peace in the region.
He praised Governor Zulum and the people of Borno for their continued support to troops fighting insurgency, saying their contributions have boosted military operations.
Shaibu also appreciated the state government’s assistance in providing logistics, troop welfare support and help for families of fallen soldiers.
He stressed that the fight against terrorism cannot be won by military action alone, urging residents to provide useful information that can help security agencies track criminals.
The COAS assured residents that the Nigerian Army would continue to protect lives and property, while supporting the return of displaced persons to their communities.
Responding, Governor Zulum commended the efforts of troops under Operation HADIN KAI for their sacrifices and commitment to restoring peace in Borno.
Zulum said his administration would continue to support military operations, noting that security was necessary for economic recovery and development.
Both leaders agreed that stronger military-civilian cooperation remained key to defeating insurgency and rebuilding communities affected by years of insecurity.