EXTRA: Borno declares one-day fast over economic hardship, insecurity

Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno, has urged citizens of the state to fast and offer special prayers on Monday for divine intervention over the current economic hardship and insecurity in the state.

Zulum, in a broadcast on Friday, urged everyone to pray for peace, prosperity and the development of the state while observing the fast.

“I am deeply troubled by the recent hardships faced by our citizens, particularly the high cost of food items,” Zulum said.

“I understand the burden that this places on families and individuals, and I want to assure you that we are taking decisive steps to alleviate this issue.

“Our government is focusing on reviving agriculture in the state, intending to increase food production and reduce our reliance on food palliative.

“We are investing in modern farming techniques, providing support to local farmers, and creating incentives for agricultural innovation.

“By doing so, we hope to not only lower the cost of food items but also to create sustainable livelihoods for our people.

“As people of faith and from our previous experience, I implore his eminence, the Shehu of Borno, the Chief Imam, Imams, and the Christian brothers and the citizens of Borno State to observe a one-day voluntary fast on Monday the 19th of February 2024.”

He added that the government is working with stakeholders to mitigate the impact of the rising cost of living on the people.

“In addition to our efforts in agriculture, we are also working on increasing the distribution of palliatives especially for residents in Maiduguri Metropolitan and Jere,” he added.

“As your governor, I want to assure you that we will continue to improve healthcare service delivery, education and water supply.”

On recent incidents of landmine explosions on major roads in the state, Zulum said the development threatens the safety of people and the movement of goods and services.

“It is with great concern that I address the recent planting of mines on major roads by some miscreants,” he said.

“These cowardly acts have not only threatened the safety of our citizens but have also hindered the movement of goods and services essential for our state’s development.

“I want to assure you that we are working tirelessly with security forces to rid our roads of these deadly devices and to ensure the safety of all those who travel within our state.

“I believe there are forces behind sabotaging the gains recorded so far. However, we are working to ensure the perpetrators are fished out and dealt with accordingly.”