In response to the recent killing of 12 soldiers by Boko Haram insurgents in Marte, Borno State, the Nigerian Senate has urged the military to urgently reinforce its presence in the North-East.
During Tuesday’s plenary session, lawmakers stressed the importance of equipping the armed forces with modern weapons and advanced surveillance technologies to effectively combat the escalating threat posed by the terrorist group.
The Senate also directed its Committees on Army and Air Force to oversee implementation of this resolution and ensure the military complies fully with the directive.
The decisions followed a motion titled “The Resurgence of Boko Haram in Borno and Yobe States”, raised by Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno (APC–Borno) and backed by fellow lawmakers from the affected regions.
In his remarks, Monguno recalled that Boko Haram had previously seized control of much of Borno State before being pushed back by the military in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force.
He noted that these efforts had restored a period of relative calm.
However, he expressed concern that the military’s recent focus on counter-banditry operations in the North-West had left the North-East increasingly exposed to renewed attacks.
Citing the May 12 assault on Marte, which left more than a dozen soldiers dead, Monguno warned that Boko Haram is adopting more advanced methods of warfare, including the use of drones and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
He said these tactics have led to mass casualties, attacks on villages, and the disruption of recently resettled communities.
Monguno called for the full redeployment of military forces to Borno and Yobe States, emphasizing that only a sustained, well-equipped presence can halt the resurgence of insurgent activity in the region.
The Senate adopted the motion’s recommendations through a voice vote led by Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau.