GCC, Jaiz Bank Mobilise N40 Million to Resettle Borno IDPs
In a significant humanitarian effort, the Gwoza Concerned Citizens (GCC), in collaboration with Jaiz Bank, has successfully raised over N40 million to facilitate the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Borno communities.
This initiative aims to return thousands of IDPs, who have been living in Maiduguri and Bama camps for over seven years, back to their ancestral homes.
During the announcement of the resettlement fund in Maiduguri, Senator Ali Ndume revealed that nine insurgency-affected communities are still awaiting resettlement by the Borno State Government.
He expressed concern over the delayed return of IDPs from these communities, including those in border areas with Cameroon, emphasising that both military and state authorities have yet to clear these regions for safe return.
“The fundraising initiative is designed to support Governor Babagana Zulum’s ongoing efforts to relocate the remaining IDPs from various camps,” said Ndume.
He said that successful ten communities were resettlement, such as Kirawa, Ngoshe, and Hambagtha, but stressed that nine more communities in Gwoza local council still need military clearance for the safe return of their residents.
Despite the challenges, Ndume praised the resilience of the IDP returnees in the Gwoza community, who continue to cultivate their farmlands amid security threats.
“The IDPs are courageously returning to their farmlands daily to grow food and cash crops, even in the wake of recent suicide bombings that claimed 32 lives and injured over 100 others,” he remarked.
Ndume also commended the Nigerian Army for their vigilance and support, ensuring the safety of those working on their farmlands.
“The troops provide identification tickets for entry and exit within Gwoza township, including access to farmlands,” he explained.
He called on the state government and development partners to bolster the efforts of the GCC in completing the resettlement of the remaining nine communities.
“This collective effort aims to restore normalcy and provide a stable environment for the displaced families, enabling them to rebuild their lives and communities.
