Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno, has appealed to residents of the state to observe a day of voluntary fasting and prayer on Monday, May 19.
Zulum made the call during a statewide broadcast on Saturday in Maiduguri, the state capital.
He said the aim of the fasting is to seek “divine intervention” over renewed attacks in the state and across the country.
“In light of our current security challenges, I am calling on all residents of Borno State to unite in a collective act of faith and solidarity,” Zulum said.
“This Monday, I am inviting you to join me in a voluntary day of fasting and prayer for peace to reign in Borno State, the Northeast and indeed the entire country.
“Let us come together to seek divine guidance, healing, and peace for our state.”
The governor described the fast as both a spiritual act and communal expression of hope.
“Through prayer and reflection, we can strengthen our unity, renew our resilience, and restore our collective purpose,” he said.
“In recent months, I have held extensive consultations with our federal partners and the leadership of various security agencies.
“I am pleased to inform you that the collaboration between Borno State and the Federal Government is stronger than ever.
“Together, we are working on comprehensive strategies to strengthen our security architecture, enhance intelligence sharing, and equip our security agents with the necessary tools to confront the threats before us.”
Speaking during a high-level security meeting in April, Zulum said the state has suffered significant setback in its fight against terrorism.
He added that the renewed attacks show that Borno is “losing grounds” to insurgents.
