Army reopens Maiduguri–Damboa road in Borno again

The Maiduguri-Damboa road has been reopened again for free movement of motorists. 

The road which is said to be the shortest route to various parts of Borno was closed due to continous terrorist attacks. 

The Maiduguri-Damboa road which runs into the forest, serving three towns and a dozen communities, was first deserted and subsequently closed after Boko Haram insurgents captured Damboa Local Government and hoisted their flag there in July 2014. It was, however, reopened in February 2016.

The 187-kilometre road was reportedly also closed in 2018. The Army said the decision was taken to enable the troops to contain the road attacks of the Boko Haram terrorist group. It was,  however, reopened after several pleas by the governor of the state.

Speaking while reopening the road, former Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.) said; 

“Despite the reopening of this road to members of the public on April 4, 2016, we had to close it again about a year ago.

“The closure is an operational exigency to secure and protect peoples’ lives and property along the affected road.” 

The Nigerian army on Tuesday July 19, announced that the road had been reopened in collaboration with the state government.

The statement read; 

“The Nigerian Army in collaboration with the Borno State government has reopened the Maiduguri–Damboa highway for vehicular movement on Monday, July, 18 2022. “