Ndume Praises FG, Zulum Over Safe Return of Borno Refugees from Cameroon

Former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, has commended the Federal Government and Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, for their sustained efforts in relocating and resettling Nigerians displaced by Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks, who had sought refuge in Cameroon.

The repatriation followed a tripartite agreement between the Federal Government, Borno State Government, and the Government of Cameroon, in collaboration with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). Signed in 2017, the pact provides a framework for the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of Nigerian refugees, many of whom fled terror attacks to Minawao camp and neighbouring communities in Cameroon.

In a statement issued over the weekend in Abuja, Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, praised the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Borno State administration for ensuring that displaced citizens were returned to their ancestral homes.

“I commend the Federal Government because the tripartite arrangement with Cameroon and the UNHCR has facilitated the repatriation, resettlement, and relocation of Nigerian refugees in Minawao back to Gwoza Local Government,” Ndume said.

He also lauded Governor Zulum for his proactive role in reintegrating returnees after more than a decade in exile, specifically highlighting the resettlement of residents of Wala Village in Gwoza. The former Senate Chief Whip further praised Zulum for restoring electricity to Gwoza, which had remained in darkness for over 10 years due to insurgent attacks.

“The efforts of Governor Zulum in restoring electricity in Gwoza are commendable. We have been without light for over 10 years,” Ndume added, noting that the governor fulfilled a promise made during the installation of the Emir of Bama last year.

The original agreement was signed in Yaoundé, Cameroon, with a Nigerian delegation led by then Minister of Interior, Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Abdulrahman Bello Dambazau, alongside the then Governor of Borno State and now Vice President, Kashim Shettima.

Governor Zulum has continued to collaborate with the Federal Government and the UNHCR to accelerate the repatriation of tens of thousands of Borno indigenes still in Cameroon, reinforcing efforts to restore stability and rebuild communities affected by insurgency.