Governor of Niger State, Muhammad Umaru Bago, has disclosed that no fewer than 500,000 residents displaced by terrorist activities in the state are currently scattered across neighbouring states and beyond.

The governor said the displaced persons are now spread across Kebbi State, Kwara State, Kogi State, Kaduna State, the Federal Capital Territory, as well as the neighbouring Benin Republic.

Bago made the disclosure during the Presidential Initiative on the distribution of food, nutritional items and drugs to vulnerable persons affected by the humanitarian crisis in Borgu Local Government Area.

He assured that efforts are underway to ensure the displaced persons return to their communities as soon as possible.

The governor explained that the state government, in collaboration with the federal government and development partners, is working round the clock to speed up the reunification of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Borgu with their families.

Bago further revealed that Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that the National Park in Borgu be cleared and made habitable. According to him, the plan also includes the establishment of permanent bases for security agencies to address the growing insecurity caused by criminal elements in the area.

The governor appealed for patience and understanding from residents of Borgu, noting that the federal government’s intervention through the provision of food items demonstrates concern for people displaced by the crisis.

In his remarks, the Emir of Borgu, Mohammed Sani Haliru Dantoro Kitoro IV, commended the governor for what he described as tireless efforts to improve security and support residents affected by the crisis.

The monarch also acknowledged the efforts of the federal government and urged the people of Borgu to remain patient, assuring them that authorities at all levels are working to restore peace and safety in the area.

Similarly, the Minister of State for Agriculture, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, thanked the federal government for its support to the people of Borgu and praised the governor’s efforts to restore peace in the emirate.

Also speaking, Chairman of Borgu Local Government Area, Abdullahi Mohammed Nasir, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim Inga, and the Jikadan Borgu commended both the federal and state governments for the intervention.

They said the assistance would go a long way in easing the hardship faced by residents who have lost their homes and sources of livelihood due to insecurity.

The highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of food items to some beneficiaries drawn from communities across Borgu Kingdom. (The Guardian)

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