Military Repatriates Nigerian Refugees from Cameroon to Borno
In a people-focused initiative demonstrating strong civil-military collaboration, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) of the Joint Task Force (North East) has successfully facilitated the safe return of Nigerian refugees from Cameroon to Borno State.
On 27 January 2026, troops from Sector 1, working closely with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local vigilante groups, provided security for the cross-border movement of refugees from the Kirawa border into Pulka town, Gwoza Local Government Area. Many of the returnees had spent over 11 years in exile, displaced by insurgency. Their repatriation reflects the conducive environment created by sustained military operations and the ongoing restoration of socio-economic activities under OPHK.
The repatriation journey began in Minawawu, Cameroon, passing through Moruwa before reaching Kirawa, Nigeria. The exercise followed approved humanitarian and security protocols, with coordination from the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), the Borno State Government, and other security agencies.
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A high-level delegation from the Borno State Government, led by Engineer Wakilbe representing Governor Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, accompanied the refugees. The team included the Gwoza Local Government Chairman, a member of the Borno State House of Assembly, senior government officials, and representatives from UNHCR, IOM, and other humanitarian partners.
Upon arrival at Maraban Kirawa, the delegation and returnees were received by Brigadier General Nasiru Abdullahi, Commander of 26 Task Force Brigade under Sector 1, before being escorted to a reception centre in Pulka. Over a hundred households were registered and provided with immediate support, including financial aid, mattresses, and wrappers from the state government, food items from the federal government, and cash assistance from UNHCR.
The returnees will remain at the centre for medical screening, while children receive routine immunisations administered jointly by military medical personnel and Gwoza Local Government Primary Healthcare officials. Following the successful reception, the delegation proceeded to Gwoza to prepare for the return of additional refugee batches from Cameroon.
The Theatre Command confirmed that the operation was conducted without incident. Troops continue to maintain high morale, readiness, and operational efficiency to ensure the safety of communities and support humanitarian initiatives.
Operation Hadin Kai remains committed to securing communities, protecting civilians, and facilitating the safe return of displaced Nigerians, reinforcing hope and rebuilding lives across the North East.
By PRNigeria
