Insurgents Now Use Advanced Tech, Army Lacks Equipment — Gov Zulum

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has raised serious concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the North-East, revealing that insurgents have adopted advanced technology in their operations—outmatching Nigerian troops who are critically under-equipped.

Speaking during an interview on News Central TV on Wednesday, Governor Zulum made a passionate call for urgent federal and state collaboration to combat the insurgency effectively.

“The Army doesn’t have the necessary equipment on ground to fight the insurgents. Right now, the insurgents are using technology to fight the soldiers,” Zulum said.

The governor disclosed that Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, had recently informed him of the urgent need for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to improve intelligence gathering and combat readiness on the battlefield.

“A few days ago, I had a meeting with the Chief of Army Staff. He said he’s looking for 32 drones, each costing about $5.5 million, to end the insurgency—and he’s right. Why can’t we pull resources together and prioritise insecurity?” Zulum questioned.

He also criticised the inefficiency in the current military procurement process, citing that funds are often wasted through bureaucratic bottlenecks and unreliable contractors.

“Let’s deal directly—government to government—so we get value for money. Otherwise, many contractors misuse the funds or fail to deliver the equipment,” he noted.

Despite the grim outlook, Governor Zulum remains hopeful. He said that a unified and honest effort by all levels of government could end the insurgency within six months.

“If we do the right thing and pull together, this madness can end within six months. But we must stop politicising insecurity and listen to one another. Security must be prioritised.”

Zulum urged the Federal Government to engage more meaningfully with state authorities and incorporate their insights and local knowledge into national security strategies.

His remarks come amid renewed attacks and worsening insecurity in parts of Borno and surrounding states, where insurgent groups have remained resilient despite years of military operations.