Former Bauchi State Deputy Governor, Abdulmalik Mahmood, has commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration and the Nigerian Army for their successful efforts in reducing Boko Haram’s influence in northern Nigeria. During an interview at the 3rd Annual Conference of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria in Abuja, Mahmood praised the improved security situation, particularly in the North East and North West, where residents and farmers have resumed normal activities.
He emphasized that the level of terror experienced five to eight years ago has drastically decreased, although isolated incidents still occur. Mahmood attributed this success to the military’s commitment to restoring order.
Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, Commandant of the National Defence College, further highlighted that Boko Haram’s revenue has sharply declined since 2016, largely due to the government’s sustained military efforts. He explained that the group previously funded its operations through criminal activities, but these revenue streams have been significantly disrupted.
However, challenges persist, as former President Olusegun Obasanjo warned that Nigeria’s 20 million out-of-school children could become potential recruits for insurgent groups like Boko Haram if left unchecked. Additionally, agricultural production remains below average in the North, exacerbating food insecurity in affected regions.
