By: Adelowo Oladipo, Minna
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has said that more than 500,000 residents have been displaced by insecurity and are currently taking refuge in neighbouring states and the Republic of Benin .
The Governor stated further that the displaced persons were scattered across Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Kaduna Sokoto states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja following persistent security challenges in parts of Niger State.
Umaru Bago made the revelation last Saturday during the Presidential Initiative for the distribution of food, nutritional items, and drugs to vulnerable persons affected by humanitarian crises in Borgu Local Government Area.
He explained that the Niger State government, in collaboration with the Federal government and development partners, has intensified efforts to reunite internally displaced persons from Borgu with their families and facilitate their safe return to their communities.
According to him, the state government is working round the clock with relevant stakeholders to accelerate the resettlement process and ensure that displaced persons return to their homes as soon as possible.
The governor further disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that the National Park in Borgu be cleared and made habitable.
He added that the directive also includes the establishment of permanent operational bases for security agencies in the area to tackle criminal activities and strengthen security.
While appealing to residents of Borgu for patience and understanding, Governor Bago noted that the Federal government’s intervention through the provision of food and relief materials demonstrates its commitment to supporting communities affected by displacement and humanitarian challenges.
In his remarks, the Emir of Borgu, Barr. (Dr.) Mohammed Sani Haliru Dantoro Kitoro IV, commended governor Bago for what he described as tireless efforts and exemplary leadership in addressing the security and humanitarian challenges confronting the Borgu Emirate.
The Emir also acknowledged the support of the Federal government and urged residents to remain patient, assuring them that government at all levels is working diligently to restore peace and ensure the safety of lives and property.
Similarly, the Minister of State for Agriculture, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, appreciated the Federal Government for its show of compassion toward the people of Borgu and commended Governor Bago’s commitment to restoring peace in the emirate.
In separate remarks, the Chairman of Borgu Local Government Council, Abdullahi Mohammed Nasir; the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim Inga; and the Hon. Commitment for Special Duties and Inter- governmental Affair s, Hon. Abdultrazaq Mua’zu Jikantoro, the Jikadan Borgu also praised both the Federal and State governmentssayd for the intervention, noting that the gesture would significantly ease the hardship confronting the displaced residents who have lost their livelihoods.
Meanwhile, the highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of food items and relief materials to selected beneficiaries drawn from across the Borgu Kingdom.
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