Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum speaks on the plans to repatriate and resettle Nigerians from Chad, Niger and Cameroon.
The President on Wednesday inaugurated the Presidential Committee on the Repatriation, Return and Resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North-East of Nigeria. What is your take on this?
Indeed, we are so much happy, especially those of us that are in the North-East because thousands of people were displaced, some are taking refuge in the Republic of Chad, Republic of Niger, and Cameroon. And this is the time that the Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the state governments, of the North East, will facilitate the repatriation of the internally displaced persons (IDPs) that are living in our neighbouring countries to Nigeria.
The committee is also to look into the management of the repentant Boko Haram members. So, indeed, we are so grateful and the entire northern eastern government will give maximum support to this committee. We will provide the necessary support to the Federal Government under the Distinguished Leadership of Mr. President. We shall provide on support to the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and others and the military to ensure that this process yield the desired result
On the issue of repentant Boko Haram members; are you confident that they are truly repentant?
Hundred per cent confident. While there is no process that is perfect in the entire world, but so far so good, the process has yielded positive results. I believe over 90% of those that have surrendered, are doing well and have given the government the necessary support. They’re also calling their colleagues in the bush to come out and join the process of peace building.
You might have interacted with some of these refugees that are being expected. Are they ready to come back?
In fact, they are over ready. They have been agitating for return since last two and a half years. But unfortunately, the enabling environment has not been created for that return. But now that the Federal Government has acted when all the necessary resources and materials needed to ensure their return in a dignified manner will be provided by the federal government and we remain extremely grateful
How about collaboration between you and your neighbours?
This is very important. The entire collaboration is also important. We do have in the North-Eastern states. We have a forum that we call North-Eastern Governors’ Forum. And then secondly, we are also collaborating very well with our neighbouring countries, especially Chad, Niger, and Cameroon. We are doing very well and I think this process will go smoothly.
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