Borno residents rejoice as Nigerian Army establishes new military base in Kirawa

Residents of Kirawa, a border community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, have expressed relief over the establishment of a new military base by the Nigerian Army following years of insurgent attacks.

The development comes after a series of Boko Haram raids in the area, which claimed lives, displaced residents, and forced many to seek refuge in neighbouring Cameroon.

Chairman of the Kirawa Development Association, Yakubu Mabba, confirmed the deployment of troops, describing it as a major step toward restoring safety in the community.

“The Nigerian government has deployed soldiers to Kirawa. This has renewed our confidence to live without fear,” Mabba said.

Residents told reporters that troops had assured them of their commitment to protect the community and repel future attacks.

A resident, Aji Modu, said, “The soldiers arrived on Tuesday evening and promised to stay. We are hopeful this will end the repeated attacks.”

Another villager, Umaru Kirawa, said the deployment would help secure the border and prevent infiltration from across Cameroon.

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, commended President Bola Tinubu and the military high command for the swift response, which he said prevented further destruction.

He also urged that the deployment be made permanent given Kirawa’s strategic location, while calling for stronger collaboration between Nigerian and Cameroonian forces.