Government Plans Repatriation of Nigerian Refugees from Cameroon, Chad, and Niger Republic

The Nigerian government has announced its intention to initiate the repatriation process for Nigerians currently seeking refuge in Cameroon, Chad, and Niger Republic. Ahmed Tijjani, the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, shared this information after a meeting with Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno in Maiduguri on Thursday.

Tijjani revealed that plans are in motion for the evacuation of displaced Nigerians from these neighboring countries, with a tripartite meeting set to determine the process and procedures for the evacuation. The registration of refugees for voluntary evacuation is currently underway in collaboration with the UN Agency for Refugees (UNHCR).

Additionally, the government has agreed to close the remaining Internally Displaced Persons camps in Maiduguri and facilitate the return of displaced individuals to their original homes in the shortest possible time. Tijjani commended the Borno state government for its dedication to the welfare of the people and assured continuous support from the commission.

Highlighting ongoing efforts, he mentioned the establishment of a resettlement city in Amarwa Village, located in the Konduga Local Government Area of the state. This resettlement area includes provisions for schools, clinics, markets, a police outpost, and a skill acquisition center. The move aims to address the challenges faced by Nigerians who fled to neighboring countries during the peak of the Boko Haram insurgency.