Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has announced Monday, November 24, 2025, as a day of fasting and prayer for peace and prosperity across the state and Nigeria. The declaration was made during a televised address broadcast on Channels Television on Saturday.
The governor’s appeal comes amid a surge in attacks on schools and religious institutions in northern Nigeria. Recent incidents include the closure of schools in four Kwara State local governments following a church attack that killed at least two worshippers and saw others abducted. In Kebbi State, 25 girls were kidnapped from a boarding school in Maga, with a vice-principal also killed. In Niger State, St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri witnessed the abduction of 303 students and 12 teachers in a mass kidnapping.
Addressing residents, Zulum emphasized his dual role as governor and fellow citizen, urging unity to maintain peace. “For the past 15 years, Borno State has endured the global spotlight due to the Boko Haram insurgency, which displaced millions and disrupted livelihoods,” he said.
He praised the resilience of Borno’s people and their cooperation with security agencies, noting that collective efforts helped overcome the insurgency. “We rallied behind our armed forces to confront those seeking to destabilize our state, the Northeast, and the nation,” Zulum added.
The governor also highlighted progress in agriculture, linking it to the relative stability in the state. “Farmers have cultivated crops that will sustain communities for the next one to two years. Our government remains committed to providing inputs and agrochemicals to ensure consistent food production,” he said.
While acknowledging sporadic security challenges, Zulum encouraged citizens to stay resolute. “Your resilience inspires our administration. As people of faith, our security measures must also be accompanied by prayers,” he stated.
He urged all residents, irrespective of religious affiliation, to participate in the fasting and prayer day. “Let us devote ourselves to constant prayers, seeking Almighty God’s mercy for lasting peace and prosperity in Borno State and across Nigeria,” Zulum appealed.
The governor assured continued support for security forces, community vigilance programs, and dialogue efforts that safeguard both the state’s integrity and citizens’ lives. This declaration follows a similar statewide day of prayer held in May 2025, which Zulum led in Rann, Kala Balge Local Government Area—one of the communities most affected by Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks.
