In response to the recent devastating Boko Haram massacre in Borno State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated a comprehensive review of the Nigerian military’s operations against terrorist groups in the northeastern region. The directive comes after at least 63 people, including civilians and soldiers, were killed in a brutal overnight attack on the Darul Jamal community in Bama Local Government Area.
The attack, which occurred on the night of September 5, 2025, saw insurgents storm the resettled village, opening fire indiscriminately and setting fire to homes, vehicles, and shops. Many victims were internally displaced persons who had only recently returned to Darul Jamal after years of displacement. The death toll includes approximately 60 civilians and five soldiers.
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, who visited the site shortly after the attack, described the massacre as a “major setback” to ongoing resettlement efforts and expressed grief for the loss of lives. Governor Zulum also highlighted the challenges faced by the military due to inadequate troop strength and emphasized the importance of deploying newly trained local Forest Guards to enhance security in vulnerable areas.
In reaction to the massacre, President Tinubu has ordered the Chief of Defence Staff and the service chiefs to critically assess current counter-terrorism strategies and propose immediate improvements to prevent future incidents of similar scale. This review is expected to focus on intelligence gathering, community-based security initiatives, coordination among security agencies, and increased military presence in high-risk zones.
The Nigerian Air Force has already conducted airstrikes targeting the terror group after the attack, reportedly killing over 30 insurgents in the area. Despite these efforts, Boko Haram and allied insurgent factions continue to pose a serious threat, with recurring attacks causing widespread displacement, destruction, and loss of life.
The United Nations and other international bodies have condemned the attack and urged Nigerian authorities to swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice and improve measures to protect civilians. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also expressed deep sorrow, describing the incident as “senseless violence” and called for renewed national commitment to eradicating terrorism.
The Borno massacre underscores the enduring security challenges facing Nigeria’s northeast, even as the government seeks to restore normalcy and rebuild communities affected by over a decade of insurgency. President Tinubu’s directive signals a renewed focus on strengthening the nation’s response to terrorism amid escalating threats.
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