For more than a decade, thousands of Nigerians from Gwoza fled to Cameroon to escape Boko Haram attacks, leaving behind homes, farmlands, and the life they once knew.
On Sunday, hope returned to the Minawao Refugee Camp when Borno State governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, told over 12,000 refugees that “the road home is now open.”
The governor said his administration is working to restore dignity to victims of insurgency, including those taking refuge in Cameroon, Chad, and Niger.
Zulum addressed the refugees during a visit to Minawao in Cameroon’s Far North region as part of ongoing plans to repatriate those willing to return.
Many refugees described the visit as their “first real assurance” that they may finally return home.
The governor told them that security has improved in Gwoza, with expanded military operations and civilian security initiatives now in place.
“The welfare of refugees, internally displaced persons, and returnees remains a priority for us,” Zulum said.
He announced a cash support package to help families rebuild homes and restart life after resettlement.
Zulum said the Borno government, in partnership with the federal government, will give N500,000 to each returning refugee, while women-headed households will receive N100,000.
He also promised to drill boreholes to improve access to water in resettled communities.
Governor of the Far North Region of Cameroon, Mijinyawa Bakari, praised Zulum’s commitment and described his intervention as exemplary.
“Borno State Governor has consistently demonstrated genuine concern and responsibility for his people, even beyond Nigeria’s borders,” Bakari said.
Bakari added that Zulum’s regular interventions have strengthened cooperation between Nigeria and Cameroon in managing displacement and regional security.
Zulum also visited farmlands assigned to Nigerian refugees by the Cameroonian authorities, where he encouraged farmers and promised support for irrigation and water supply to boost food production.
“Empowering refugees to maintain their livelihoods is central to restoring dignity and ensuring a smooth transition back into their communities,” the governor said.
Zulum visited the camp alongside senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, House member Abdullahi Buba Abatcha, commissioners, and Gwoza council chairman.
With plans for cash support, water supply, and security assurances now in motion, many refugees believe the long wait for home may finally be ending.
