Senate’s Bold Move To Establish Military Base Sparks Hope In Adamawa.
In a decisive step to combat the resurgence of Boko Haram in Nigeria’s North-East, the Nigerian Senate has urged the Federal Government to establish a military base in Hong Local Government Area (LGA), Adamawa State, announced on 20 May 2025. This resolution, adopted during a plenary session in Abuja, aims to strengthen security, protect vulnerable communities, and restore stability in a region plagued by renewed insurgent attacks. The Senate’s swift action has been hailed as a beacon of hope, offering a promising path towards safeguarding lives and livelihoods in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states.
The motion, titled “Resurgence of Boko Haram Activities in Hong and Gombi Local Government Areas, Adamawa and Other North-East States,” was sponsored by Senator Aminu Iya Abbas (PDP–Adamawa Central) and co-sponsored by all North-East senators, reflecting a unified commitment to tackling the crisis. Senator Abbas highlighted the devastating impact of recent attacks, noting that since February 2025, communities in Hong and Gombi LGAs have faced relentless violence, with homes, schools, and places of worship destroyed, leaving thousands displaced. “The establishment of a military base in Hong will reinforce our brave security forces and protect our people,” Abbas stated, commending the Nigerian Army’s efforts while calling for enhanced resources.
The Senate’s resolution also directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide urgent relief materials to affected communities, addressing the humanitarian toll of the insurgency. In Hong LGA, attacks on 25 February, 15 April, 26 April, and 16 May 2025 left scores dead, with 90% of homes in Kulda village razed, forcing residents to live as refugees in their own land. The call for NEMA’s intervention has been welcomed by community leaders, with one in Hong declaring, “This is a promising move to safeguard our people and reclaim peace.” The promise of aid offers hope to thousands facing displacement and economic hardship.
Security experts have praised the initiative, noting that a permanent military base in Hong could enhance coordination among the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, improving response times to insurgent threats. The base is expected to counter Boko Haram’s sophisticated tactics, including the use of armed drones and explosive devices, which have intensified since January 2025. Senator Binos Dauda Yaroe (PDP–Adamawa South) described the move as a “game-changer,” emphasising its potential to deter further attacks and restore economic activities like farming and trading, which have been crippled by insecurity.
The Senate’s call has also garnered support from federal authorities, with President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio urging continued vigilance to prevent insurgents from exploiting lulls in military operations. “Any time the fight abates, they strike unawares,” Akpabio warned, reinforcing the need for a sustained security presence. The motion acknowledged the “brilliant performance” of law enforcement agents and President Bola Tinubu’s political will, which previously dislodged Boko Haram from two-thirds of Borno and Yobe’s local governments. This renewed commitment signals a robust partnership between the Senate and the executive to address the insurgency’s resurgence.
Residents across the North-East have expressed optimism, with posts on social media reflecting public support for the Senate’s proactive stance. “This military base could be the turning point for Adamawa,” shared a user, echoing the sentiment of many who see the base as a lifeline for communities under siege. The initiative aligns with broader efforts, including Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum’s push for enhanced intelligence and military reforms, fostering hope for a coordinated response to the crisis.
As the Federal Government considers the Senate’s recommendation, the proposed military base in Hong stands as a symbol of resilience and determination. By bolstering security and supporting displaced communities, this bold move paves the way for a brighter, more secure future in Nigeria’s North-East, offering renewed hope to those striving for peace and prosperity.