Senate Calls for Military Base in Hong, Adamawa to Combat Boko Haram Resurgence
Abuja, May 21, 2025 – The Nigerian Senate has called on the Federal Government to establish a permanent military base in Hong Local Government Area (LGA) of Adamawa State, following a resurgence of Boko Haram attacks that have left thousands homeless and crippled economic activities across the North-East.
Background and Senate Motion
The resolution was adopted during Wednesday’s plenary after a motion sponsored by Senator Aminu Abbas (PDP–Adamawa Central) and co-sponsored by all North-East senators. The motion, titled “Resurgence of Boko Haram activities in Hong and Gombi Local Government Areas, Adamawa and other North-East states,” highlighted a series of brutal attacks in Hong and Gombi LGAs. Senator Abbas described how repeated raids by Boko Haram have destroyed homes, displaced thousands, and left communities unable to farm or trade due to fear of violence.
Senate’s Recommendations
- Permanent Military Base: The Senate urged the Federal Government to establish a military base in Hong LGA to reinforce the Nigerian Army and other security agencies already in the area, aiming to improve rapid response and bolster security presence.
- Humanitarian Relief: The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) was directed to provide relief materials to affected communities to cushion the effects of the attacks.
Debate and Security Context
Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno (Borno North) commended the military for its past successes, noting that at one point, Boko Haram controlled two-thirds of local governments in Borno and Yobe. He credited the Tinubu administration’s political will and military determination for dislodging the insurgents. However, Monguno warned that Boko Haram has regrouped and resumed attacks, even targeting military formations and carting away equipment, which he described as “deeply troubling”.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for continued vigilance, highlighting Nigeria’s porous borders that allow insurgents to escape and return to launch fresh attacks. He stressed the need for sustained support for security agencies and enhanced border security.
Constitutional Debate
Senator Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West) raised concerns about the Senate’s constitutional authority to direct the President to establish military infrastructure, arguing that such directives might overstep legislative bounds. Others, including Senator Wasiu Eshilokun Sanni (Lagos Central), countered that the National Assembly is empowered to make such recommendations under the constitution.
Humanitarian and Economic Impact
The Senate observed a minute of silence for victims and noted that the resurgence of Boko Haram has devastated economic activities in the region. Many residents now live as refugees in their own communities, unable to farm or engage in business due to insecurity.
