By Usman Yahaya Ismail, Maiduguri
Following the insurgency that has left many individuals in the state displaced, the Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has unveiled an ambitious plan aimed at constructing 85,000 new homes across 66 communities within the state.
This initiative is targeted at providing shelter for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and other victims of the Boko Haram insurgency.
Governor Zulum made this announcement during a meeting with a delegation from the northeast ambassadors’ group, which included high commissioners, ambassadors, and developmental and humanitarian partners.
The meeting took place at the government house in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria.
Each of the proposed resettlement communities is set to have essential facilities such as schools, clinics, police posts, marketplaces, stalls, boreholes, secure farmlands, and vocational training centers as deemed necessary.
Furthermore, Governor Zulum revealed that the state government plans to allocate 15 percent of its annual budget towards solutions for resettling IDPs. Additionally, there are plans to expand Maiduguri city along six entrances to accommodate individuals who may opt to integrate into urban life.
The implementation of this resettlement plan is estimated to require approximately $2.7 billion USD. Governor Zulum emphasised his commitment to providing decent homes in secure areas for the displaced population, respecting their choices and dignity.
Moreover, Governor Zulum highlighted his administration’s policies of rehabilitation, reconstruction, and resettlement, emphasising solutions to internal displacement.
He also expressed gratitude to development partners for their support in initiatives such as the regional stabilisation facility and the UN offer, which have significantly impacted the lives of those affected by insurgency in the Lake Chad region.
In response, the Northeast Ambassadors Group, represented by its chairman, Richard Montgomery, and the UK’s high commissioner to Nigeria, praised Governor Zulum for his dedication to improving the lives of the people of Borno.
They expressed their commitment to supporting the state in achieving durable solutions to address the challenges faced by internally displaced persons and improve livelihoods.