Borno Governor Zulum warns Boko Haram is now using drones to monitor troops and plan attacks.
He urges urgent action to stop the new threat before insecurity in the region becomes worse again.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has cautioned that Boko Haram fighters are introducing drones into their operations, a move that could worsen insecurity in the North East if left unchecked. He spoke on Friday in Mafa, Borno State, shortly after another incident linked to the extremist group.
Zulum said information available to him shows that the militants have used drones to observe security movements and assist their attacks in some communities. He called on the Federal Government to act fast to block this new threat before it grows into a wider problem.
He explained that he received briefings suggesting the technology had already been deployed in Dikwa. “This is extremely worrisome,” the governor said. He added that drones in the hands of criminals create a very dangerous situation that demands an urgent national response.
According to him, Nigeria must not allow insurgents to gain an edge through improved surveillance tools. He advised security agencies to work together more closely so that the country can defend its airspace and protect vulnerable towns.
“We need to improve the protection of our airspace. This is an urgent step that should not be delayed,” he said while addressing security chiefs and local leaders in Mafa.
Zulum also appealed to residents to continue assisting authorities with reliable information. He noted that credible tips from locals have helped save lives in the past and more cooperation is needed as the conflict takes a new shape.
The governor hinted that there could be internal issues affecting the efficiency of the fight against terrorism. He revealed that intelligence had warned of a possible attack in Mafa before it occurred, which raises serious questions on why the warning did not prevent the assault. He said this gap must be examined and corrected.
Security experts who have followed the development say the use of drones by armed groups could make it harder for the military to detect and stop surprise attacks. They advised the government to invest in stronger radar systems and better coordination among the armed forces and intelligence teams.
The concern remains that if the insurgents continue to upgrade their tactics, communities that are already exposed to violence could face more danger. Zulum stressed that every effort must now focus on staying ahead of the terrorists, defending borders and restoring calm to Borno and the wider region.
