Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to repatriate more than 12,000 Nigerian refugees from Kirawa, Ngoshe, Ashigashiya and surrounding communities in Gwoza Local Government Area, who have been living in Cameroon for over a decade.

Zulum gave the assurance on Sunday while addressing refugees at the Minawao camp in Cameroon’s Far North region, as part of ongoing efforts to return those who remain displaced.

He said the initiative aims to restore the dignity of victims of insurgency, including Nigerian refugees in Cameroon, Chad and Niger.

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The governor’s visit provided significant relief and renewed optimism among the refugees. For many, his presence signalled that the long road home was finally opening, with some describing it as their “first real assurance”.

Zulum informed the refugees that adequate security arrangements have been put in place in their home communities, following years of sustained military operations and civilian security initiatives across Gwoza and other parts of Borno.

“The welfare of refugees, internally displaced persons and returnees remains a priority for us,” Zulum said, noting that rebuilding the lives of insurgency survivors is a core pillar of his administration’s humanitarian and development agenda.

The governor also announced cash support for shelter rehabilitation for those willing to return, a measure designed to help them begin reconstructing their homes. In addition, he pledged to drill boreholes for the refugees.

“Borno State, in partnership with the Federal Government, will provide cash assistance of N500,000 to each refugee willing to return home, while female-headed households will receive N100,000 each,” Zulum announced.

The governor of Cameroon’s Far North Region, Mijinyawa Bakari, praised Zulum’s unwavering commitment, describing his support for displaced Nigerians in Cameroon as exemplary and deeply humanitarian.

“The Borno State governor has consistently demonstrated genuine concern and responsibility for his people, even beyond Nigeria’s borders,” Bakari said.

He acknowledged the sustained humanitarian assistance, particularly Zulum’s long-standing interventions in the Minawao Refugee Camp.

“Zulum’s physical presence and hands-on support have not only provided relief to the refugees but have also strengthened cooperation between Nigeria and Cameroon in addressing displacement and promoting regional stability,” he added.

During his visit, Zulum also toured farmlands allocated to the refugees by the Cameroonian government, which have become their primary source of livelihood.

While assessing the fields, he commended the refugees’ resilience and the generosity of the host authorities. He assured farmers that his administration would support their agricultural activities by providing irrigation kits and water sources to boost productivity.

“Empowering refugees to sustain their livelihoods is central to restoring dignity and ensuring a smooth transition back into their communities,” Zulum said.