TAIYE OLAYEMI NETWORKS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS, SOCIAL JUSTICE, DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT (TONHR)
TAIYE OLAYEMI NETWORKS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS, SOCIAL JUSTICE, DEVELOPMENT AND EMPOWERMENT (TONHR) has closely observed the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Borno State. We commend the Nigeria Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), for supporting the Borno State Government with food items to facilitate the resettlement of IDPs from eight local government areas residing in the Muna Garage IDP camp, which is currently being closed down by the state government to allow for proper integration of the affected people back to the society.
According to reports in national newspapers, approximately 12,985 individuals, comprising 4,880 male heads of households, 1,230 female heads of households, 6,875 married women, and other family members, are slated for resettlement across nine LGAs. In the first phase, resettlement focuses on communities in six LGAs: Bama, Konduga, Gwoza, Kukawa, Jere, and Ngala.
It was stated that each of the 4,880 male heads of households and 1,230 female heads of households received N100,000, while about 6,875 married women received N50,000 each in cash. The following were approved items added to this intervention; 35,531 bags of rice, 27,865 bags of beans, 24,736 bags of maize, 2,501 kegs of vegetable oil, 2,025 cartons of tomato paste, 1,614 cartons of seasoning cubes, and 837 bags of iodized salt.
While we appreciate this gesture, TONHR remains deeply concerned about the resettlement process and the efforts to ensure the safety and proper reintegration of individuals affected by the prolonged terrorism crises that have devastated the state for years. We observe a significant gap in the presence of concrete rehabilitation plans and the reorientation necessary for communal living. Despite the government's commendable efforts to reduce the number of IDP camps, it is crucial to acknowledge that these individuals have endured numerous traumatic experiences during their displacement. Therefore, it is imperative to establish a comprehensive and structured framework for resettlement to restore a sense of harmony, stability, and communal cohesion for these affected populations. This will enable them to rebuild their lives with dignity and foster a spirit of unity and resilience within their communities.
In light of this, we urgently call the government’s attention to the following issues to ensure the well-being and protection of these individuals:
Implement a comprehensive psychosocial support program to assist returnees in coping with trauma and fostering mental well-being.
Equip and enhance Primary Health Care facilities with modern medical equipment, drugs and adequate supplies to ensure high-quality healthcare services for the returnees.
Develop and provide access to basic education, vocational training, and creative learning resources for children and youth, addressing the educational disruptions caused by prolonged violence and displacement.
Establish community guidance and counselling centres to facilitate reintegration, offering support in areas such as conflict resolution, community building, and social cohesion.
Initiate livelihood programs that provide returnees with the skills and resources needed to rebuild their lives, including vocational training, small business support, and agricultural development.
Ensure adequate housing and infrastructure development to provide safe and secure living conditions for the resettled families.
Promote gender-sensitive approaches in all resettlement activities, ensuring that the specific needs of women and girls are addressed, including protection against gender-based violence.
Foster partnerships with local and international NGOs, community leaders, and other stakeholders to create a collaborative and inclusive resettlement strategy.
Conduct regular monitoring and evaluation to assess the effectiveness of the resettlement process, making necessary adjustments to address emerging challenges and improve outcomes.
Ensure the security of the lives and properties of the returnees by providing a robust security architecture and establishing a community “Red Alert” team to promptly notify security agents of any threats or attacks.
Raise awareness and educate communities on peacebuilding and resilience to prevent future conflicts and build a foundation for long-term stability.
TONHR believes these measures are crucial for strengthening the resettlement process and ensuring the sustainable reintegration of the IDPs into their communities. By implementing these comprehensive support systems, we envision a future where returnees can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. The government should be committed to creating an environment where individuals and families can thrive, children can pursue their education without disruption, and communities can heal and grow stronger together.
