UNDP, Swiss Govt, others to support resettlement of Yobe community
The United Nations Development Programme, has pledged to partner with Yobe State Government in resettling residents of Malumdunari, displaced by Boko Haram insurgency.
Mr Mohamed Yahya, the UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria made the pledge during a tour of the ruins of Malumdunari village on Wednesday.
According to a statement issued in Damaturu by Malam Mamman Mohammed, Director General, Press and Media Affairs to Yobe State Governor, Yahya led a high-powered delegation to the village.
He expressed delight over the willingness of the displaced villagers to return home.
“The UNDP, UN and other members of the international community will take this up to support Yobe state government for the people to return to their community with dignity.
“We hope that in about a year, the people can sing welcome back home song, the way we did in Nganaram,” Yahya added.
On his part, Yobe Governor, Mai Mala Buni, said Malumdunari is the only displaced community yet to be resettled after the return of peace and security in the state.
He assured that the government would work with the development partners to rebuild the community which was destroyed by Boko Haram insurgents.
“We are happy with the improved security in the state and the willingness of the people to go back to their community.
“Government will work closely with the UNDP and other development partners to ensure that the people return home with dignity,” Governor Buni said.
Similarly, the representative of the government of Switzerland, Mr Nicolas Mart, said the visit had provided him the opportunity to see things for himself and assess other areas of intervention.
He said the government of Switzerland would help Yobe state government in resettling the community, and supporting other areas of need to improve the lives of the people.
The Northeast Development Commission also assured its support towards the resettlement of the displaced villagers.
The NEDC team leader, Dr Mohammed Yahaya Jalam, said the commission would also support the resettlement of the community.
“We are also committed to see this community returning home to resettle” he said.
Malumdunari is the only remaining community displaced by insurgency community in Yobe state that is yet to be resettled.
