In a move aimed at addressing the rising concerns of illicit activities, Governor Babagana Zulum has officially closed the Muna Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp in Maiduguri, a facility that has been home to over 11,000 people. The camp, one of the largest in the state, has been a symbol of the humanitarian crisis caused by the years-long insurgency in the region.
Governor Zulum cited the increasing levels of prostitution, gangsterism, child abuse, and other criminal activities within the camp as the primary reasons for its closure. He emphasized that the eradication of Boko Haram, a terrorist group responsible for the displacement of thousands, can only be achieved through the resettlement of affected communities. According to the governor, people must return to their homes and resume their livelihoods to pave the way for lasting peace and stability.
The closure of the Muna IDP camp is part of a broader plan announced by Governor Zulum four years ago to shut down all 12 formal IDP camps in the state capital, Maiduguri. While he has largely fulfilled this promise, two informal camps remain operational. The state government has made significant progress in resettling the displaced populations, with approximately 75% of the IDPs from Muna camp already reintegrated into their communities as of 2024. The remaining 25% are expected to return to their ancestral localities in the coming days.
To facilitate a smooth transition, the state government has put in place a comprehensive resettlement package. Each of the 6,000 households from the camp will receive essential support, including food aid, shelter materials, and access to healthcare services. Furthermore, every head of household, regardless of gender, will be given N100,000, while all housewives will receive an additional N50,000. This support aims to empower the returning communities to rebuild their lives and contribute to the regional economy.
The closure of the Muna IDP camp marks a significant step towards the rehabilitation of communities affected by the insurgency. As the region looks towards recovery and reconstruction, the focus on resettlement and the provision of support services underscores the commitment to ensuring that those displaced by conflict can return home and start anew. With the determination to eradicate Boko Haram and restore peace, the people of Maiduguri and surrounding areas are one step closer to regaining their stability and security.
