Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has unveiled plans to resettle 5,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Bama Local Government Area before the end of the rainy season to enable them to return to farming.
The resettlement effort targets residents of five communities—Goniri, Bula Kuriye, Mayanti, Abbaram, and Darajamal—as part of the state government’s ongoing recovery and rehabilitation programme for communities affected by insurgency.
Governor Zulum made the announcement during a courtesy visit to the Shehu of Bama, Dr. Umar ibn Kyari Umar El-Kanemi, on Friday. He disclosed that construction of 1,000 transitional shelters has commenced in each of the affected communities, with Darajamal’s units already completed.
“We are committed to resettling all displaced persons living in IDP camps back to their ancestral homes,” Zulum said. “Construction has started in Mayanti, Goniri, Bula Kuriye, and Abbaram, while that of Darajamal has been completed. I have also directed the digging of security trenches around the communities to improve their safety.”
He emphasized the urgency of the resettlement, noting its link to the agricultural season.
“Our goal is to ensure they participate in this year’s cropping season,” the governor stated. “Farming is our greatest treasure. I will be meeting with the military command and Civilian JTF leadership to develop strategies for enhanced security in the resettled areas.”
Zulum also revealed that additional security arrangements have been made for Nguro Soye, a farming community on the outskirts of Bama. He said logistics support has been provided to the military and Civilian JTF, and six months’ stipends have been approved for local volunteers to patrol the area.
“On my way back from Gwoza, I stopped at the military base in Banki Junction to discuss intensified security operations around Nguro Soye and nearby settlements,” he added.
Responding, the Shehu of Bama praised Governor Zulum’s leadership and commitment to rebuilding conflict-affected communities.
“I commend the governor for resettling the people of Darajamal and for the plans to return more displaced persons to their homes,” the monarch said. “We are sincerely grateful for your tireless efforts.”
The Shehu also appealed for additional support to the Civilian Joint Task Force to help protect farmers and farmlands during the rainy season.