The comptroller of the Taraba State Command of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Halid Usman Kwa, has asserted that the upsurge in the number of refugees in Taraba State is a direct consequence of the ongoing crisis in the Ambazonian region of neighbouring Cameroon.
During a meeting with Rev. Fr. Anthony Bature, the founder of the Foundation for Peace, Hope, and Conflict Management (FPHCM), Kwa highlighted the social challenges arising from the presence of these refugees in host communities.
According to him: “The influx of refugees in Taraba is due to the Ambazonian crisis in neighbouring Cameroon, specifically in Sardauna, Takum, and Kurmi. The presence of these refugees has reportedly led to social challenges in their host communities.”
Expressing the commitment of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to address the complex issues surrounding migration and the well-being of displaced populations in Taraba State, Kwa emphasised the necessity for collaboration with the Foundation for Peace, Hope, and Conflict Management.
The comptroller shed light on the intricate nature of migration, citing factors such as economic prosperity, safety, conflicts, and natural disasters as major contributors. He underscored the importance of a coordinated effort to navigate these challenges.
Rev. Fr. Anthony Bature echoed the foundation’s dedication to ensuring the safety of migrants and explored avenues for civil society organisations to positively impact the lives of the vulnerable population.
Calling for a robust partnership between FPHCM, NIS, and the government, Bature emphasised the need to address the multifaceted challenges faced by migrants.