In the ongoing, multi-faceted war against terror, a critical pillar of strategy continues to be validated by events on the ground. It was with a profound sense of affirmation that I witnessed His Excellency, Professor Babagana Zulum, the resilient Governor of Borno State, take a decisive step in November 2025 by declaring a statewide day of fasting and prayer. His action underscores a timeless military truth: to secure a nation, you must fortify its spirit.
Governor Zulum, who has shouldered the immense burden of leading a state at the epicentre of this conflict, addressed his people with a clarity that resonates with my long-held convictions. He declared, “As a people of faith, we believe our security strategies must be underpinned by prayer.” This is not a retreat from practical action, but the strengthening of its very foundation. His call for unity across faiths is a masterstroke of leadership, recognizing that the fight for peace demands a unity of purpose that transcends all man-made divisions.
This move by the Governor provides a powerful, contemporary vindication of the philosophy I advocated during my tenure. It is a living example of the principle so brilliantly articulated by the late Dr. Obadiah Mailafia, who demonstrated through historical and global lenses that spiritual warfare is not a sign of desperation, but a component of comprehensive strategy. From the divine interventions that shaped ancient battles to the acknowledged use of spiritual resources by modern intelligence agencies, the pattern is clear. Governor Zulum’s declaration is this principle in action, tailored to the heart and soul of Nigeria.
The moment calls not for revisiting past criticisms, but for unified national action. The focus must remain on empowering our gallant security forces with every necessary resource while simultaneously mobilizing the nation’s spiritual strength. I stand firmly with Governor Zulum and urge the Federal Government and all Nigerians to embrace this dual approach. Let us apply overwhelming kinetic force against those who seek to destroy us, and let us undergird this effort with the formidable power of collective prayer and faith.
The path to a secure and prosperous Nigeria requires us to fight on every front. The courage of our soldiers on the physical battlefield must be met with the unwavering faith of the nation on the spiritual one. It is this confluence of resolve that will herald our final and lasting victory.
Lt Gen Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd) CFR
Former Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army
