The Borno State Government is reiterating its unwavering commitment to bringing back the remaining Chibok schoolgirls who are still in captivity after ten long years since their abduction by the Boko Haram insurgents.
This assurance comes from Prof Usman Tar, the Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, who emphasized the government’s determination to not relent until every abducted girl is safely reunited with their families.
Reflecting on the tragic event that took place at the Government Girls Secondary School in Chibok, where 276 innocent girls were cruelly taken away, Prof Tar expressed the collective sorrow and sympathy of the state government towards all those affected by the abduction.
“We shall not rest on our oars until the last of our innocent girls are back home with their families. On this auspicious occasion of the 10th anniversary of the abduction of Chibok Girls, the Borno State Government identifies and sympathises with all those who are affected by the abduction.”
He acknowledged the deep pain and anguish endured by the families of the girls still in captivity, affirming the government’s ongoing efforts to rescue and reunite them with their loved ones.
“The Government wishes to inform the public that we shall continue to struggle to salvage our abducted girls on behalf of the parents and relatives of the Chibok girls who are still in captivity.”
The Commissioner provided an update on the progress made so far, revealing that 187 out of the 276 abducted Chibok Girls have been rescued and reunited with their families.
These rescued girls have been supported in various ways, including enrollment in schools, participation in scholarship programs, and empowerment initiatives.
“The Borno State Government is committed to rescuing and reuniting the remaining Chibok girls and reuniting them with their families. We understand the pain and anguish that the families of those still in captivity are going through, this is our sorrow.”
Additionally, efforts are being made to provide psycho-social support to help them adjust to normal life after their harrowing ordeal.
Prof Tar highlighted the rehabilitation efforts for recently rescued girls, who are attending the 2nd Chance School to learn vocational skills for sustainable livelihoods.
He also noted that some rescued girls have chosen to return to their parents voluntarily, underscoring the importance of providing choices and support to those affected by abduction.
In terms of addressing the broader issue of internally displaced persons (IDPs), the Borno State Government is fully committed to facilitating their return to their ancestral homes.
Over 90% of active IDP camps have already been decommissioned, with efforts underway to resettle the remaining displaced persons within the year.
This resettlement process is preceded by ensuring security, clearing farmlands, and restoring vital infrastructure to facilitate a smooth transition back to their communities.
Prof Tar expressed gratitude to the federal government agencies, especially the armed forces and security agencies, for their support in resettling IDPs.
He also acknowledged the assistance provided by neighboring countries in accommodating Nigerian refugees and highlighted efforts to facilitate their return home.
Notably, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has engaged with President Bola Tinubu to seek support for the relocation of Nigerian refugees to their ancestral homes within Nigeria.
The President has pledged assistance in this endeavor, underscoring the collaborative efforts between the federal and state governments to address the challenges faced by displaced persons and refugees.
