BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR,
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has expressed concern over the prolonged stay of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in camps, stating that the situation is no longer sustainable.
The governor made this statement during a courtesy visit from the minister of humanitarian affairs and poverty alleviation, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, at the Government House in Maiduguri.
The IDPs have been in the camps for several years now, with some already relocated to their ancestral homes. However, those still in the camps have no means of livelihood.
In contrast, those who have returned to their ancestral homes have begun to engage in economic activities such as farming, fishing, and rearing, enabling them to earn a living.
'IDPs have stayed too long in camps; it is no longer sustainable. We want them to move out and earn their livelihoods. While UN organizations and NGOs have done commendable work, there is no consistent funding to sustain people in these camps,' Gov. Zulum said.
The governor emphasized the need for sustainable solutions to address humanitarian challenges, focusing on the resettlement and empowerment of displaced persons.
The minister of humanitarian affairs, Prof. Yilwatda, commended Gov. Zulum for his leadership in return, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts.
He outlined the ministry's plans to incorporate Borno's humanitarian model into a comprehensive humanitarian response plan.
The minister also highlighted upcoming plans for the repatriation and reintegration of Nigerian refugees, focusing on empowering them towards self-reliance.