By Musdapha Ilo

Following the resolve of Borno State government to reopen government schools in Maiduguri, the state capital, shut about two years ago as a result of Boko Haram insurgency, the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, has called for support in relocating the internally displaced persons, IDPs,to camps built in other parts of the state.

NEMA’s  North east coordinator, Mohammed Kanar, made the call on Wednesday at a meeting with disaster management experts in Maiduguri on the back of the deportation of 4, 979 Nigerians from Cameroon through Yola,  Adamawa State.

“Relocation of IDPs is a serious issue and all steps, including health, accommodation and other basic facilities must be done diligently so as not to create another disaster,” Kanar said, adding that the call became necessary as the state government has decided that by end of October, public schools must be reopened.

He acknowledged the role played by nongovernmental organisations such as World Health Organisation, WHO, United Nations Children Fund, UNICEF, Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders, in the management of the humanitarian crisis in the Region.

Borno State Commissioner for Education, Inuwa Kubo, told the meeting that some challenges necessitated to postponement of the reopening of schools, which were earlier scheduled for the first week of October.

He, however, assured that by end of the month, students will return to schools while displaced persons will not be left uncatered for.

“All the same, we’ve resolved to open all schools in the state by the end of October and we’ve also assured all IDPs that the new camps will not be less in facilities when compared to where they’re being relocated now. Government will appreciate continue collaboration of NEMA and all international, regional and national agencies on humanitarian management,” he said.