Zulum defends military after airstrike, says Jilli market was closed years ago

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has warned residents against aiding, harbouring or providing any form of logistical support to Boko Haram insurgents following recent military operations in Jilli, Gubio Local Government Area.

The warning comes in the aftermath of an air operation carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai on April 11, 2026, in the Jilli axis, a border area between Borno and Yobe states.

Jilli, located between Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State and Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State, has been identified as a strategic zone in the ongoing fight against insurgency in the North-East.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, Governor Zulum described Jilli Market as a notorious location allegedly used by insurgents and their logistics suppliers.

“I have been properly briefed on the airstrike carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai on Jilli Market, a border town between Borno and Yobe states. Let me state categorically that the Borno State Government closed Jilli and Gazabure markets five years ago,” the governor said.

Consultation With Yobe, Military Ongoing

Zulum disclosed that he is in close consultation with the Yobe State Government and the military leadership over the latest development.

He explained that the Borno State Government works closely with the military and other security agencies before reopening markets or resettling communities previously affected by insurgency.

Commitment to Peace and Security

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting innocent residents and sustaining collaboration with security agencies to achieve lasting peace across the state.

He also called on residents to remain vigilant and support security operations by providing credible information that could help ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.

Renewed Call for Public Cooperation

The latest statement underscores growing concern over civilian collaboration with armed groups, as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle insurgent supply routes and restore normalcy in conflict-affected communities.