By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
A security think tank focused on the Sahel region, the Alliance of Sahel Institute for Security Studies, along with members of the Norwegian Institute for Conflict Resolution, met with Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum to explore the innovative security strategies, known as the Borno Model, implemented by his administration.
The meeting, held in Maiduguri on Saturday, aimed to examine how the Borno Model—a community-driven approach to combating insurgency—could serve as a blueprint for other Sahelian nations grappling with similar security challenges.
The Sahel region, which spans several countries, including Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, has faced increasing violence in recent years, according to a statement from Zulum’s media aide, Abdurraman Bundi.
The delegation, led by the Special Adviser to the Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff, Hon. Aliyu Ibrahim Gebi, included experts and policymakers from across the Sahel region, such as Brigadier General Yusuf Ali, Coordinator of Operation Safe Corridor; General Aime B. Simpore from Burkina Faso; Mahamadu Togota from Mali; and Moureima Adamou Noma from Niger.
In his remarks, Governor Zulum highlighted that the Borno Model has become one of the world’s most successful security and reintegration strategies. He noted that over 300,000 insurgents and their families have surrendered to authorities, thanks to the initiative.
Zulum emphasized that his administration’s success in earning the trust of the people has been built on several key projects, including schools, hospitals, markets, and livelihood support for those impacted by insurgency.
Additionally, Zulum pointed out that over the past six years, his administration has made significant infrastructure investments across Borno State’s three senatorial zones, further improving security and reintegration efforts.
