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DAMATURU – The Ngoshe Stakeholders Forum (NSF) in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State has denied reports circulating in the media and other social media platforms indicating that Samaila Kaigama, was the one who played a critical role that led to the rescue or freedom of about 416 people, mostly women and children that were abducted in Ngoshe by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists on 3rd March, 2026.
Addressing a Press Conference in Maiduguri on Tuesday which were attended by former chairmen of Gwoza local government and many sons and daughters of Ngoshe, concerned Groups/Individuals, the Chairman of the Forum, Prof. Suleiman Bello insisted and categorically dissociate themselves from what he said ‘a self-acclaimed group operating under the name Borno South Youth Alliance (BOSYA) allegedly managed by one Samaila Kaigama, who has publicly claimed involvement in the facilitation of the release of their people.
Professor Bello however expressed their profound appreciation to the Federal Government of Nigeria for its sustained commitment towards restoring peace and securing the lives of citizens affected by insurgency in the North-East.
The Forum commend the Executive Governor of Borno State, His Excellency, Engr. Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, for his relentless leadership, compassion, and commitment towards the rehabilitation, reconstruction and resettlement of displaced communities across Borno State, particularly Ngoshe and surrounding communities.
The Chairman of NSF also extended their deepest appreciation to the Nigerian Army, especially troops stationed in Ngoshe, Pulka and Gwoza, as well as the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East ‘Operation HADIN KAI’, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar whose sacrifices, resilience and patriotism continue to guarantee security and hope for their people despite enormous challenges.
Their gratitude equally goes to Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South), Member representing Gwoza/Damboa/Chibok federal constituency, Hon Usman Jaha, the Emir of Gwoza, HRH Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), other humanitarian partners for their prompt intervention through the provision of relief materials, humanitarian assistance and technical support towards the safe and dignified reintegration of the released captives.
His words: ” We, the stakeholders and representatives of our people, wish to categorically dissociate ourselves from a self-acclaimed group operating under the name “Borno South Youth Alliance,” allegedly managed by one Samaila Kaigama, who has publicly claimed involvement in the facilitation of the release of our people.
“For the avoidance of doubt, this group is unknown to us, does not represent our people in any capacity, and was never mandated to speak or act on our behalf. Their claims are entirely false, misleading, and should be disregarded by the general public.
“We are deeply concerned by the activities and utterances of such individuals and groups whose actions appear designed to exploit sensitive humanitarian and security situations for personal gain, publicity, or fraudulent purposes. Available indications strongly suggest a pattern of deceptive conduct capable of undermining genuine efforts towards peace, security, and community stability.
“We therefore advise members of the public, media organizations, humanitarian actors, and relevant stakeholders to exercise caution and avoid engaging with or recognizing any unauthorized group or individual falsely claiming to represent our people.
“As law-abiding citizens, we remain sincerely grateful to the Federal Government, the Borno State Government, security agencies, humanitarian institutions, and all relevant stakeholders for their sacrifices, commitment, and support toward the safety, peace, and wellbeing of our people.
“We remain committed to lawful engagement, responsible communication, and continued support for all legitimate efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and stability in our communities”. Professor Bello said.
The jubilant members of the Forum while expressing their profound gratitude said: “We
wishes to formally announce and celebrate the successful release and safe return of four hundred and sixteen (416) Ngoshe captives who had been held by Boko Haram insurgents.
“The freed captives have since reunited with their families and loved ones amid emotional scenes of relief, gratitude and renewed hope for peace and stability in Ngoshe and the entire Gwoza axis.
“On behalf of the people and stakeholders of Ngoshe, we wish to express our profound appreciation to the Federal Government of Nigeria for its sustained commitment towards restoring peace and securing the lives of citizens affected by insurgency in the North-East.
“We most sincerely commend the Executive Governor of Borno State, His Excellency, Engr. Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, for his relentless leadership, compassion, and commitment towards the rehabilitation, reconstruction and resettlement of displaced communities across Borno State, particularly Ngoshe and surrounding communities.
“We also extend our deepest appreciation to the Nigerian Army, especially troops stationed in Ngoshe, Pulka and Gwoza, whose sacrifices, resilience and patriotism continue to guarantee security and hope for our people despite enormous challenges.
“Our gratitude equally goes to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for its prompt intervention through the provision of relief materials, humanitarian assistance and technical support towards the safe and dignified reintegration of the released captives.
“Special appreciation is also extended to Distinguished Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South Senatorial District, whose consistent support, advocacy and solidarity with Ngoshe displaced persons and victims of insurgency have remained commendable and deeply appreciated by our people.
“We further appreciate all relevant stakeholders, humanitarian actors, security agencies, community leaders and individuals who directly or indirectly contributed towards ensuring the safe return, rehabilitation and reintegration of the captives.
“We are pleased to note that the returnees are currently receiving adequate medical attention, psychological support and humanitarian care to aid their recovery and reintegration into society after enduring traumatic experiences in captivity.
“While celebrating this milestone, the Ngoshe Stakeholders Forum wishes to renew its passionate appeal to the Borno State Government to accelerate ongoing rebuilding and reconstruction efforts in Ngoshe and neighboring communities to facilitate the safe return of displaced persons to their ancestral homes.
“As the rainy season begins, our people are eager to return to farming activities and rebuild their livelihoods. We therefore call for increased agricultural support, including the provision of seeds, fertilizers, farming implements and other critical inputs, considering that virtually all economic and social infrastructure in Ngoshe was destroyed by insurgency.
“Most importantly, we strongly appeal to government at all levels to prioritize the construction of the Pulka–Ngoshe road. The completion of this strategic road network will significantly enhance security operations, reduce the threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and attacks, improve humanitarian access, strengthen community engagement and restore confidence among returning residents.
“The resilience of the Ngoshe people remains unshaken. We believe that with sustained government support, improved security and collective commitment from all stakeholders, Ngoshe will once again rise stronger, safer and more prosperous”. Bello explained.
