Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, on Tuesday distributed 63 patrol vehicles to security agencies and formations to boost security in Maiduguri and surrounding communities.

The distribution is aimed at improving mobility, response capabilities and coordination among security formations operating within the state capital.

Of the 63 vehicles, 30 were allocated to the 10 sectors of the Civilian Joint Task Force(CJTF), 16 to the Rapid Response and Anti-Social Vices squad, 10 to paramilitary agencies, six to the hunters group, while one was given to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Mr Zulum said the gesture was part of his administration’s commitment to strengthening the state’s security architecture.

“We are here in continuation of our efforts to support the security apparatus in Borno State with equipment and logistics needed for them to function effectively,”he said.

He assured that the state government would continue to provide necessary support to the military, police and other security agencies towards maintaining stability.

“I want to assure you that the state government under my leadership will continue to support you with a view to achieving the noble objective of ensuring the state is rid of insurgency,” Mr Zulum said.

The governor commended President Bola Tinubu and the security forces for their sacrifices and efforts in the fight against insurgency.

He added, “Let me extend my profound appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the great work he is doing to nail the insurgency in the bud.

“I also commend the service chiefs, theatre commanders, sector commanders and alofficers and men of Operation Hadin Kai, and indeed paramilitary organisations in Borno for the great work they have been doing.”

Since 2019, Mr Zulum’s administration has distributed batches of vehicles to support security operations in the state.

(NAN)