Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno has urged the state citizens to fast and offer special prayers on Monday, as done in the past, for divine intervention over the current hardship caused by inflation.

Mr Zulum, in his broadcast to the people of the state, implored traditional rulers, clerics and citizens to observe a one-day voluntary fast on Monday for peace, prosperity and the development of the state. “I am deeply troubled by the recent hardships faced by our citizens, particularly the high cost of food items,” said the governor.

He added, “I understand the burden this places on families and individuals, and I want to assure you that we are taking decisive steps to alleviate this issue.”
Mr Zulum said his administration was focused on reviving the agricultural sector to increase food production and reduce reliance on palliatives.

He commended the federal government for its sustained support in the fight against insurgency and the development of our state. The governor also expressed his gratitude to security forces and volunteers for their sacrifices to safeguard lives and create a peaceful society for prosperity and development.

He said his administration was engaged with stakeholders, particularly those in the business of essential commodities, including all forms of grains and building materials, and had made far-reaching decisions to mitigate the rising cost of essential goods. “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,” Mr Zulum said. He lamented the recent incidents of mines on major roads in the state, adding that those engaged in it to sabotage the government would fail.

Zulum consequently declared a one-day statewide fast. “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,” the governor said. He urged everyone to pray for peace, prosperity and the development of the state while observing the fast.