The urgent need to address the numerous challenges faced by border communities was emphasized by the federal government.
During a courtesy visit at the Ship House, Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, expressed this sentiment while meeting with the Executive Secretary of the Border Communities Development Agency, BCDA, Dr. George D.A. Kelly.
An official statement signed by Mati Ali, Personal Assistant for Media and Publicity to the Minister, and released to NewsNow, highlighted specific challenges such as inadequate healthcare facilities and lack of access to clean water.
The minister called for a collaborative effort from all stakeholders to tackle the issues encountered by residents of border communities.
He asserted, “The government is dedicated to providing solutions that will enhance the well-being of those living in border communities.”
“A strategic master plan involving members from various sectors including international organizations, non-governmental entities, National Assembly, state assemblies, governors, local government chairmen, business leaders, and other important societal figures needs to be developed,” he added.
Abubakar, coming from a border state and community himself and having previously served as the governor of Jigawa State, expressed his understanding of these border-related challenges and assured his support in addressing them.
He pledged to back any viable initiatives aimed at solving these problems.
Prior to this, Dr. Kelly presented BCDA’s strategic plan for 2024–2027, outlining both short-term and long-term solutions to improve services related to security, communication, welfare, and agriculture in border communities.