By: Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
A high-level delegation from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) visited Banki. The team included Mr. Raouf Mazou, Assistant High Commissioner for Operations; Mrs. Ruvendrini Menikdiwela, Assistant High Commissioner for Protection; Mr. Abdouraouf Gnon Konde, Regional Director for West and Central Africa; Mr. Arjun Jain, Country Representative; and Mrs. Lara Scholtterbeck, Senior External Engagement Coordinator.
The delegation was welcomed by Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, Chairman of the State Sub-Committee on Repatriation, along with other senior officials such as Lt. Col. Michael Ogundele, Commanding Officer of the 152 Battalion Banki, and Engr. Gujja Dalori.
During their visit, the UNHCR team toured various government projects in Banki, including the Banki Cattle Market, irrigation fields for returnees, the Banki International Market, Government Day Secondary School, and the new government lodge. They also crossed into Amchide, Cameroon, to review conditions there before returning to Banki.
The delegation engaged with refugees to discuss their needs and challenges. The refugees expressed gratitude to the governments of Cameroon and Nigeria and requested further support for sustainable livelihoods through agricultural initiatives and the reconstruction of their communities.
The UNHCR delegation assured that assistance would be forthcoming and praised the Borno State Government for its exemplary resettlement efforts. They emphasized their commitment to enhancing support for the affected communities and addressing their needs effectively.
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