Maiduguri’s ongoing struggle with insecurity...

Residents of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, say they continue to grapple with lingering security concerns despite years of military operations against insurgent groups.

While relative calm has returned to parts of the city, fear and uncertainty remain part of daily life for many.

For more than a decade, Maiduguri has been at the center of Nigeria’s fight against insurgency.

Although the security situation has improved compared to the peak of violence, residents reveal sporadic attacks in surrounding communities and threats along major highways continue to raise concerns.

Markets are open, schools are functioning, and businesses are gradually picking up.

However, many residents say the psychological impact of years of conflict still lingers.

Ibrahim Amarawa, a resident of Maiduguri, expressed gratitude to God over improvement in the security situation but he noted that they still hear of attacks, prompting them to remain careful when they travel.

He added that security checkpoints remain visible along major roads across the city as military personnel maintain surveillance to prevent possible infiltration by insurgents.

Military authorities say ongoing operations, combined with cooperation between security agencies and local vigilante groups, have helped reduce incidents within the metropolis.

However, humanitarian workers say thousands of displaced persons still depend on assistance, as some rural communities remain unsafe for full resettlement.

Economic activities have also been affected, with traders lamenting transportation difficulties and occasional road closures linked to security alerts.

Lamenting, Isaac Daniel, a fish trader, says sometimes goods don’t arrive on time because of security checkpoints and it affects business.

According to him, they also face the challenge of high transportation costs from the eastern part of Nigeria to Maiduguri.

Ma'azu Isa, a market leader, says the insurgency has seriously affected fish marketing and transportation.

He disclosed that trucks have been burned by the insurgents and people have lost their lives.

Isa, however, expressed appreciation to security operatives for their efforts in trying to secure the area.

For David Kanteen, a retired military officer, Maiduguri is now more peaceful.

Although, he acknowledged occasional hit-and-run attacks outside the city. The resident noted that security forces have been managing the situation.

Community leaders are calling for sustained military presence, improved intelligence gathering, and stronger youth empowerment programs to address the root causes of insecurity.

While Maiduguri has made visible progress in restoring stability, residents say lasting peace will depend on continued security operations, economic recovery, and stronger community support.