IDPs in Borno get 700 new homes

The Family Homes Funds Limited (FHFL) in collaboration with the Borno government has built 700 new homes for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Chibok and Yaskuri towns in the state.

These areas have experienced repeated attacks from Boko Haram insurgents over the years.

Chibok is infamous for the abduction of more than 200 schoolgirls in 2014.

In a statement on Thursday, Femi Adewole, FHFL managing director, said with this development, over 3,000 families who had been displaced by the insurgency would have new homes.

“Through a partnership between the government of President Muhammadu Buhari at the center and the energetic leadership of the State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, up to 3,200 families who have been displaced and often living in makeshift tents will have access to brand new homes in their original communities to start new lives,” Adewole said.

“The scheme which is being financed by the Family Homes Funds will also provide up to 12,000 new jobs for young people and commence the long road towards rebuilding these communities.

“The initial phase of the scheme comprising 200 homes in Chibok and 500 homes in Yana Yaskuri have now been completed and handed over to displaced families.

“Our decision to embark on this project with our partners was influenced by the need to ensure protection and safety of our people.”

The MD said these houses are expected to come as a relief to the IDPs because of their experiences at the camps.

“Our institution is absolutely focused on its responsibility for delivering on the Government’s agenda for ensuring that millions of Nigerians living in unacceptable housing conditions not only have access to a safe, decent and affordable home but sustainable jobs too,” he said.

“In that regard, we are pleased to have had the opportunity on behalf of the Government of President Buhari to support the Government of Borno State on this initiative which this week has started to impact lives directly. We look forward to the completion of the 3,200 homes within the next 9 months as planned.”