The Yobe State Government has expanded infrastructure and logistical support for local hunters and vigilantes to strengthen ongoing military operations against insurgents in frontline local government areas.
The Security Adviser to the Governor, Dahiru Abdussalam, disclosed this during the inauguration of renovated accommodation and a conference hall for the group in Damaturu on Thursday.
Mr Abdussalam said the initiative forms part of a broader security strategy to combat Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists, particularly in forested and volatile areas.
According to him, the facility previously a dilapidated two-bedroom apartment has been remodelled into a 30 room structure to enhance operational readiness. Each room can accommodate between six and eight personnel, increasing the camp’s capacity to over 100 members at a time.
He explained that the expansion provides a stable operational base for hunters working under the command and control of the Nigerian Army in high-risk areas, while those in relatively stable communities operate under police supervision.
“Hunters are integral to ongoing military operations. They conduct patrols, man ambush positions and participate in confidence-building patrols,” Mr Abdussalam said.
A 30 seat conference hall has also been constructed within the facility to serve as an operations and coordination centre.
The adviser added that the state government has strengthened the group’s logistics by providing uniforms, kits, weapons, ammunition, vehicles and motorcycles to ensure rapid deployment.
“They can mobilise within 15 minutes and respond swiftly to distress calls. Their mobility and knowledge of the terrain complement military efforts,” he said.
Mr Abdussalam further revealed that members of the group have been enrolled in the Yobe Contributory Healthcare Management Agency scheme to guarantee access to medical care. The government also provides monthly stipends, feeding support and special operation allowances to boost morale.
He noted that families of members killed in action receive support, while injured personnel are treated and compensated.
The adviser urged residents to cooperate with hunters and other security agencies, stressing that sustained peace in the state is the result of coordinated efforts.
Also speaking, the Commander of the Yobe Hunters Group, Idrissa Buba, commended the government for strengthening the group’s operational base.
Mr Buba appealed for the provision of a borehole and a mosque within the facility to address members’ welfare needs, assuring that the group would continue to support military operations and safeguard communities across the state.
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
