By Abdul Kareem
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, held crucial discussions on Tuesday with the European Union and ECOWAS Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Samuela Isopi, as well as the new representative of UNHCR to Nigeria, Arjun Jain, in Abuja, aiming to bolster support for the people of Borno.

The closed-door meetings, which followed an initial public introduction, delved into significant areas of collaboration that promise to enhance the well-being of Borno’s populace.

During the session with the EU, Governor Zulum and officials explored avenues for cooperation in the health sector, education, and social services, underscoring the potential benefits for the citizens of Borno State.

Expressing gratitude for the European Union’s steadfast support throughout more than a decade of insurgency-induced humanitarian crisis, Governor Zulum emphasized the importance of sustained partnership in addressing the region’s pressing challenges.

Concurrently, in discussions with UNHCR, Governor Zulum deliberated on strategies for the repatriation of Borno indigenes seeking refuge in neighboring Chad, Cameroon, and Niger Republic.

The meeting also addressed the welfare of internally displaced persons (IDPs), focusing on empowering them to reduce reliance on food aid from NGOs and government assistance programs.

Borno Deputy Speaker  Engineer Asking, a Special Adviser, Hon Mshelia  during the meeting

Accompanying Governor Zulum were key officials including the Deputy Speaker of Borno State House of Assembly, Engr Abdullahi Musa Askira, Secretary to Borno State Government, Hon Bukar Tijjani, Chief Adviser to the Governor on External Affairs, Ambs Adamu Abbas, and the Special Adviser on ICT, Tukur Mshelia.

The collaborative efforts and plans discussed in these high-level meetings hold the promise of significant positive impacts on the lives of the people of Borno, marking a crucial step towards sustainable development and resilience in the region.