The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouk and the Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), Hon Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim have commended refugees who voluntarily returned to their country home of Bama and Banki at the weekend in Borno from Cameroon.
The duo also thanked President Muhammadu Buhari, who out of his love and passion for the refugees, directed their repatriation to their homeland.
The minister recalled that the North-east region was ravaged by the Boko Haram insurgents forcing them to relocate to Cameroon.
On her part, the Federal Commissioner, Hon Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim whose commission is saddled with the facilitation of their return to Bama and Banki, stated that there is no place like home, having stayed in a foreign land for over 10 years.
“Be rest assured that normalcy has returned to Banki and Bama as you can see people going about their normal livelihood activities. This is as a result of the great efforts of our gallant soldiers and other security agents who have assiduously denied themselves of all comfort to defend and protect lives and properties. Their great sacrifices have brought in the desired peace and here we are enjoying it together.
“I am convinced that your decision to voluntarily return home is a golden one at this period. His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari who is very instrumental to your return in safety and dignity expresses deep gratitude for this singular act of yours. To this end, the Federal Government and the Borno State Government together with the support of international community and development partners will stand by you for sustainable local integration. You are not alone,” she said.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim thanked the minister for her leadership and also commended the UNHCR Country Representative in Nigeria, Ms Chansa Kapaya, and her dedicated staff for their continued support to the NCFRMI and the government of Nigeria, in ensuring that the commission have a successful repatriation exercise.
The event had dignitaries from the state executive council, stakeholders and the Commanding Officer of the area, Lt Col MZ Dikko; Commanding Officer 152 TF BN Banki among others.
