Borno State Government has declared a one-day statewide fast for Monday, February 19, to seek divine intervention on the rising cost of food items and the spate of landmine explosions across its major roads.

Governor Babagana Zulum disclosed this in a statewide broadcast on Friday.

“I speak to you today with a heavy heart, but also with a determination to address the challenges that have befallen our beloved state.

“I am deeply troubled by the recent hardships faced by our citizens, particularly the high cost of food items,” Zulum said, adding “I understand the burden that this places on families and individuals,” he said.

The governor said, “I want to assure you that we are taking decisive steps to alleviate this issue,” explaining, “Our government is focusing on reviving agriculture in the state, intending to increase food production and reduce our reliance on food palliative.”

He added the state government would be investing in modern farming techniques, providing support to local farmers, and creating incentives for agricultural innovation.

“By doing so, we hope to not only lower the cost of food items but also to create sustainable livelihoods for our people, ” he believed.