Boko Haram Abducts NAUB Professor And Passengers In Borno

Terrorists suspected to be affiliated with Boko Haram/ISWAP reportedly kidnapped Professor Abubakar Eljuma of the Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB) and several other passengers on Sunday along the Damaturu-Biu highway near Kamuya village in Borno State.

Professor Abubakar Eljuma Among Abducted Victims

According to local sources, Professor Eljuma, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at NAUB, was among the leading contenders for the Vice-Chancellor position, which is soon to be vacant. His abduction has raised concerns about the increasing insecurity in the region.

Insecurity Escalates Near Kamuya Village

Kamuya village, located approximately 10 kilometers from Buratai—the hometown of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Yusuf Tukur Buratai (Rtd)—has been a hotspot for terrorist activities. Over the past decade, the area has witnessed multiple abductions, roadside bomb explosions, and targeted killings.

Details of the Incident

Security reports indicate that on March 2, 2025, insurgents intercepted and kidnapped an unspecified number of passengers from two Golf cars and a Borno Express bus traveling along the Damaturu-Biu road. The terrorists reportedly released all female passengers while detaining the male travelers, including Professor Eljuma.

A reliable security source called for prayers during the ongoing holy month of Ramadan, urging the public to hope for the safe return of the kidnapped victims.

NAUB Reacts to the Abduction

An official of the Nigerian Army University Biu, who spoke under anonymity, confirmed the incident to our correspondent on Monday. He stated that the university management is currently holding an emergency meeting to address the crisis and explore necessary actions to secure the release of the abducted professor.

Ongoing Security Concerns in Borno State

The abduction of Professor Eljuma highlights the persistent security threats posed by insurgents in northeastern Nigeria. With a decade-long history of terrorist activities in Borno State, there is an urgent need for intensified military operations and intelligence efforts to curb the rising wave of kidnappings and attacks.

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