Recent discourse surrounding Nigeria’s security situation has ignited a wave of public debate, following a brief but widely dissected comment made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris. His statement came in response to a strong warning issued by Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, over the resurgence of insurgent activities in parts of the North East—particularly in Borno State, the epicenter of Boko Haram’s decade-long assault on the region.
While tensions have risen in some quarters over the perceived implications of the minister’s remarks, a careful and objective review reveals no contradiction, rebuttal, or dismissal of the concerns raised by Governor Zulum.
Let’s begin by acknowledging the distinct, but complementary, roles both public officials play. As the Minister of Information, Idris has an institutional obligation to communicate the Tinubu administration’s perspective and defend its policies. At the same time, Governor Zulum, a man on the frontlines of insecurity, is perfectly within his rights—and responsibilities—to raise red flags when threats re-emerge in his jurisdiction. His candor reflects an understanding born of firsthand experience; he knows precisely where the pain is felt.
The minister’s comments, however, have been misinterpreted by some as an attempt to downplay Zulum’s warning. But a closer look tells a different story.
Responding to the governor’s concerns, Mallam Idris said:
“Yes, security is indeed improving in many parts of the country even if acts of violence have not been completely eradicated. Security agencies are working round the clock to ensure that the situation in some parts of Borno State and other areas is brought under control.
“The synergy we have seen in the operations of security agencies, especially in the last two years, and the massive investment in hardware and other equipment, indicates the seriousness which the Federal Government attaches to this issue. The Tinubu administration is committed to eradicating acts of banditry and terrorism across the country.
“The successes achieved by the security agencies in the last 18 months is an indication that indeed Nigeria is gradually returning to normalcy. Government calls on all, especially the subnational governments, to join hands to ensure rapid eradication of the remaining pockets of criminal elements wherever they may be.”
Nowhere in this statement did the minister discredit Zulum’s claims. Rather, he acknowledged that while national security has seen improvements, the battle is far from over. In fact, his remarks explicitly recognized ongoing challenges in Borno State and reiterated the government’s determination to resolve them. He even called for collaboration with state governments—hardly a defensive stance.
To portray the minister’s words as insensitive or dismissive is to misread a message that was, in truth, diplomatic and cooperative in tone. Idris neither denied the resurgence of insurgency nor excused the federal government from its responsibilities. Instead, he highlighted ongoing efforts, the progress made, and the need for united action.
At a time when security narratives can be easily weaponized for political mileage, it is crucial to uphold clarity and context. Both Zulum and Idris are, in their own ways, doing what their positions demand: one raising alarm based on realities on the ground, the other reinforcing public confidence by pointing to tangible progress.
The real takeaway? Security remains a shared national priority—and it will take candor, collaboration, and consistency from all levels of government to secure lasting peace in Borno and beyond.
