By:Usman Ibrahim Geidam Sunday, February 25, 2024_
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, addressed a group of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Mafa on Sunday, emphasizing the challenges faced by his administration in distributing food items to IDPs and vulnerable residents.
Expressing disappointment over recent protests by some IDPs threatening to return to the bush where Boko Haram terrorists are located, Governor Zulum acknowledged the limitations faced by the state government. He stated, "In the last couple of years, we have consistently provided food to internally displaced and vulnerable people. Believe me, what we are doing is even beyond our capacity."
Governor Zulum highlighted the significant financial commitment made by the Government of Borno State, stating, "In the last four years, the Government of Borno State spent nothing less than N40 billion to provide food and non-food items to the people of the state." Despite these efforts, he emphasized that no government, whether state or federal, can fully address the food needs of all citizens.
Acknowledging the broader economic challenges faced not only in Borno State but across Nigeria, Governor Zulum reiterated, "The hardship we are facing is not only in Borno State but all over Nigeria." He pointed out that while food distributions were previously more frequent, the improving security situation has allowed many individuals to resume agricultural activities and generate their own livelihoods.
Governor Zulum commended the IDPs who have utilized agricultural opportunities, stating, "Most of you here (more than 80%) now have access to agricultural land, and I believe you have cultivated your farmlands and harvested your farm produce."
He also emphasized the importance of continued progress in development and security, cautioning against disruptive behavior.
In his closing remarks, Governor Zulum expressed gratitude to the federal government for its support in achieving peace in Borno State and reiterated the commitment to maintaining security and development efforts in the region.
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