Governor Zulum has highlighted Challenges in Repatriating Over 120,000 Borno Residents who Fled to Niger Republic.
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, revealed on Wednesday that the closure of the Nigeria-Niger Republic border by the Federal Government has hindered the process of repatriating more than 120,000 Borno residents who sought refuge in Niger Republic after being displaced by the Boko Haram insurgency.
During his budget presentation at the State House of Assembly, Governor Zulum shared that efforts to bring back those who fled to Niger Republic have faced obstacles since the border closure following the military takeover in Niger Republic. He further disclosed that he had secured grants totaling €10 million and €500,000 from Germany and Switzerland, respectively, to support the resettlement of Boko Haram-displaced residents.
“The number of Nigerian refugees in Niger Republic is over 120,000,” Governor Zulum informed the lawmakers. “The coup d’état in Niger Republic has impeded our plans to repatriate the Abadam and Guzamala people (refugees) from that country. I will continue to seek additional grants for this program,” he added.
Governor Zulum also appealed to the people of Borno State to forgive and embrace repentant Boko Haram insurgents, emphasizing that integrating them back into society is preferable to having them rejoin the terrorist group and perpetuate violence.
Since the launch of the Federal Government’s Operation Safe Corridor and the Borno State Government’s initiative to reintegrate ex-combatants into their communities, concerns have arisen about potential reprisals from those who have lost loved ones or suffered at the hands of the insurgents. However, Governor Zulum urged communities to foster harmony and provide support to the surrendered insurgents for successful resettlement and reintegration.
“I call upon the people of Borno State to support the repentant Boko Haram insurgents,” Governor Zulum appealed. He revealed that more than 160,000 insurgents and their families have already embraced the path of repentance. Recognizing the concerns of the communities, he stressed, “Leaving these individuals in the wilderness would result in more unimaginable havoc. Managing their reformation is, therefore, a better approach.”
The 2024 budget for Borno State, totaling N340.6 billion, allocates N53.8 billion for finance and economic development, N39.4 billion for education, and N5.1 billion for healthcare.