Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has reiterated his dedication to ensuring the dignified repatriation of thousands of Nigerian refugees currently residing in Chad and Niger Republic.Â
He emphasized that their return will be carried out in a manner that respects their traditions and cultural values.
Governor Zulum made this commitment during a meeting with a delegation from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), led by Assistant High Commissioner, Mr. Raouf Mazou, in Maiduguri on Monday.
He disclosed that approximately one million displaced persons are set to be resettled in the coming period.
In his address, Zulum explained that his administration has shifted its focus from providing humanitarian aid to implementing developmental initiatives.
He referred to this new approach as the “Humanitarian Peace-Development Nexus,” which underscores the importance of transitioning from temporary relief to sustainable development.
The governor noted that, at the height of the conflict, around 3.2 million people were displaced within Borno State.
However, under his administration’s efforts over the past three years, 1.2 million individuals have been successfully resettled in their communities.
Despite this progress, Zulum acknowledged that nearly one million displaced persons still remain in camps, awaiting resettlement.
Zulum underscored the importance of resettling displaced persons in their ancestral homes or, alternatively, in locations of their choosing, in a manner that upholds their dignity.
He emphasized that the state’s efforts are crucial for moving from a phase of humanitarian aid to one focused on long-term development.
The governor also highlighted the dire conditions in the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, where many displaced persons continue to live. He pointed out that the situation in these camps is unsustainable, with high levels of criminal activity and dependency on aid.
“The situation in the IDP camps is not sustainable,” Zulum stated. “There is a high level of criminal activity and dependency. While some NGOs may prefer to keep our people in the camps, we do not.”
Governor Zulum assured the UNHCR delegation that his administration is open to working with any organization willing to support Borno State’s developmental agenda.
He emphasized the need for collaboration to ensure that the displaced persons are resettled in a dignified manner and that they can rebuild their lives with the necessary support and infrastructure.
