Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to resettling victims of the Boko Haram insurgency in a dignified and sustainable manner.
The Governor made this pledge during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, on Tuesday, at the Government House in Maiduguri.
Addressing the ongoing challenges faced by Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), Governor Zulum stressed the unsustainability of prolonged stays in IDP camps, citing donor fatigue as a pressing concern.
“IDPs have stayed too long in camps; it is no longer sustainable. We want them to move out and earn their livelihoods. While UN organizations and NGOs have done commendable work, there is no consistent funding to sustain people in these camps,” Zulum stated.
The Governor emphasized the need for durable and sustainable solutions to address humanitarian challenges, including the resettlement and empowerment of displaced persons.
He pledged to collaborate closely with agencies under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to expedite the safe and dignified repatriation of refugees.
In response, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, announced the ministry’s plans to integrate Borno’s humanitarian model into a comprehensive Humanitarian Response Plan.
He commended Governor Zulum for his focus on return, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts, which have been pivotal in restoring infrastructure and reviving social life in the state.
“Governor Zulum has provided exemplary leadership by aligning state efforts with national and international partners, ensuring that livelihoods and social activities are gradually returning to Borno,” the Minister remarked.
The Minister further outlined plans for the repatriation and reintegration of Nigerian refugees back to their ancestral homes, with a commitment to empowering them towards self-reliance.
The Minister was accompanied by the Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, Hon. Tijani Aliyu Ahmed, Senior Special Assistant to the President on the School Feeding Program, Dr. Yetunde Adeniji, along with senior officials from the ministry.
