Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has pledged to accelerate the reconstruction of critical infrastructure in Malam-Fatori, headquarters of Abadam Local Government Area, as part of efforts to facilitate the return and reintegration of residents displaced by insurgency.
Zulum made the commitment on Monday, during a working visit to the border community, where he inspected the condition of public facilities and engaged residents on the challenges confronting the area.
The governor inspected several damaged and abandoned facilities, including schools, government buildings and housing infrastructure, many of which were destroyed or left in disrepair following years of insurgency.
Malam-Fatori, one of the communities severely affected by the Boko Haram insurgency, has witnessed significant destruction and displacement, leaving several public facilities in need of reconstruction as residents gradually return.
Following the assessment, Zulum directed the immediate construction of an Islamiyya school, primary and secondary schools, as well as a hospital in the community.
He said the provision of basic amenities is essential to enabling returnees to rebuild their lives, restore their livelihoods and provide better opportunities for their children.
“Provision of basic amenities is critical to enabling returnees to rebuild their lives, restore livelihoods, and give their children a stronger foundation for the future,” the governor said.
The governor also held an engagement with residents, allowing them to present their concerns and identify areas requiring urgent government intervention.
Governor Zulum, who also visited the headquarters of the 68 Battalion of the Nigerian Army in Malam-Fatori, where he met with the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel D.Y. Chuwar, and other senior officers and troops deployed to the area, commended the troops for their courage, resilience and commitment to maintaining security in the border community and facilitating the gradual return of civilian activities.
Zulum assured the military of his administration’s continued support, particularly in the provision of essential needs aimed at improving their operational effectiveness.
In a related development, Governor Zulum ordered the immediate suspension of all village and ward heads in Malam-Fatori following their absence during his visit to the community.
He also directed the commencement of the process for appointing new traditional representatives to serve the returning population.
Zulum expressed concern that the traditional leaders were absent at a time when residents were returning and the community was undergoing a critical phase of reconstruction and recovery.
He described their absence as unacceptable, stressing that traditional institutions have an important role to play in restoring stability and strengthening communication between government and residents in communities emerging from conflict.
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The governor consequently directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Sugun Mele, to work with the Shehu of Borno to commence the appointment process without delay.
He said the new village and ward heads must be individuals of proven integrity, competence, commitment and ingenuity, capable of understanding the challenges facing residents and working effectively with government and security agencies.
The governor’s visit underscores the state government’s renewed efforts to rebuild communities devastated by insurgency and create the conditions necessary for the safe and sustainable return of displaced residents.
