Maiduguri, Borno State – In a significant move towards restoring peace and stability in the region, the Borno State government has initiated a resettlement program that will see the return of 11,950 households to their ancestral homes in Bama, Kukawa, Marta, Mafa, Konduga, and Ngamboru, among others.
The resettlement program was officially flagged off by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, who emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the returnees. Each household will receive a resettlement package, in addition to food and other necessary items.
“The government is not forcing anyone to return home,” Governor Zulum stated, “but the camps must be closed to ensure peace and stability in the state.” He urged the returnees to engage in productive activities like farming and fishing, assuring them of the presence of security personnel to ensure their safety.
The Permanent Secretary of the Reconstruction Rehabilitation and Resettlement ministry, Engr. Goni Lawal, reiterated that the return is voluntary, with no one being forced to leave the camp.
This milestone marks a significant step towards reintegrating IDPs into their communities and rebuilding lives in Borno State. The closure of IDP camps is a key objective in restoring peace in the state, fulfilling Governor Zulum’s campaign promise to return all IDPs to their ancestral homes.
Dignitaries in attendance at the event included APC state Party Chairman, SSG, Head of Service, commissioners, Special Advisers, local government chairmen, SSA, SA and other top government officials in the state.
