Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, recently announced an ambitious plan to build 85,000 new homes across 66 communities in the state.
This initiative aims to provide housing for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and other victims of the Boko Haram insurgency.
Governor Zulum made this announcement during a meeting with a delegation from the northeast ambassadors’ group, which included high commissioners, ambassadors, and various developmental and humanitarian partners. The meeting took place at the government house council chamber in Maiduguri.
During the meeting, Governor Zulum outlined the comprehensive nature of the proposed resettlement communities, which will include essential facilities such as schools, clinics, police posts, marketplaces, stalls, boreholes, secure farmlands, and vocational training centers where needed.
He also emphasized the commitment of the Borno State Government to allocate 15% of its annual budget to support the resettlement efforts.
Additionally, Zulum highlighted plans to expand Maiduguri city along six entrances to accommodate those who choose to integrate into urban areas.
However, the implementation of this ambitious plan comes with a significant financial requirement, with Governor Zulum stating that $2.7 billion USD is needed to realize the proposed solution pathway.
Governor Zulum expressed his dedication to resettling affected communities into secure and decent homes while respecting their choices and dignity.
He emphasized that this approach could also help reduce the recruitment of unemployed young men by insurgent groups like ISWAP, thereby enhancing national and international security.
Moreover, Governor Zulum briefed the delegation on his administration’s policies regarding the rehabilitation, reconstruction, and resettlement of internally displaced persons, underscoring the importance of finding lasting solutions to the challenges of internal displacement.
Furthermore, Governor Zulum expressed gratitude to all development partners for their support, particularly in the regional stabilization efforts and the one UN offer, which have significantly impacted the lives of those affected by insurgency in the Lake Chad region.
In response, the northeast ambassadors’ group, represented by the chairman, Richard Montgomery, and the UK high commissioner to Nigeria, commended Governor Zulum for his leadership and commitment to improving the lives of the people of Borno State.
They pledged their support to help Borno achieve durable solutions to address the challenges faced by internally displaced persons, affirming their commitment to improving livelihoods in the region.
