Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved an upward review of the monthly allowances paid to volunteers under the Borno Youth Empowerment Scheme, including the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), Vigilantes, Hunters, and the Neighbourhood Watch.
The approval reflects the state government’s continued commitment to supporting local security volunteers who risk their lives daily to protect communities and sustain peace across Borno State.
In a statement on Thursday night, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, disclosed that Governor Zulum increased the monthly allowance for each volunteer from N30,000 to N50,000, while leaders of the volunteer groups will now receive N150,000 monthly.
According to the statement, payment of the revised allowances has already commenced, bringing the total monthly expenditure on the scheme to N232.4 million.
The volunteer groups have played a crucial role in the fight against Boko Haram insurgency, working alongside the Nigerian military and other security agencies to maintain peace and stability in the state.
Since assuming office in 2019, Governor Zulum has consistently improved the welfare of the volunteers, first increasing their allowance from N15,000 to N20,000, and later to N30,000, which has been paid regularly by the state government.
However, rising living costs, current economic realities, and the growing risks associated with security operations necessitated the latest review.
Commending their sacrifices, Governor Zulum described the CJTF, Vigilantes, Hunters, and Neighbourhood Watch as gallant, resilient, and unwavering in their commitment to the fight against insurgency.
The new allowance structure will take effect from January 2026, with 45 leaders expected to benefit from the leadership allowance.
The governor expressed optimism that the enhanced support would boost morale, improve operational effectiveness, and further strengthen the resolve of the volunteers to support ongoing security efforts.
He also praised their contributions, including the arrest of key insurgent commanders and the provision of vital intelligence that has helped prevent attacks and protect lives and property across the state.
Governor Zulum urged the volunteers to remain disciplined, committed, and steadfast in their collaboration with security agencies in the collective pursuit of lasting peace, stability, and development in Borno State.
