By Hosea Parah, Abuja
The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in its efforts to promote stability in areas affected by Boko Haram, has handed over a block of three classrooms, a staff office and four boreholes to the inhabitants of Toumour in Diffa Region, Niger Republic.
In a statement signed by Signed by Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, Chief of Military Public Information on Wednesday in Diffa Region of Niger Republic stated that,the project was facilitated by the European Union through the COGINTA Non Governmental Organisation.
While handing over the projects, the Force Commander, Major General Gold Chibuisi represented by Colonel Bamouss Ngarsara, Chief of Administration MNJTF expressed gratitude to the people of Toumour for their warm reception and contribution to the return of peace and security in their communities.
He highlighted the importance of education as a tool for transforming communities and building lasting peace. He further commended the efforts of COGINTA and the European Union for their direct support in promoting stability in the region.
The Governor of Diffa region Smaïne Younouss represented by his Secretary General, Barde Dauda in his response, lauded the MNJTF for working tirelessly to restore peace and security in the communities affected by Boko Haram.
He expressed the commitment of the local authorities to work more closely with the MNJTF and other development partners in promoting socio-economic development in the region.
“The block of classrooms and staff offices handed over will provide an enabling environment for the education of children and young people in the locality while the boreholes will help to alleviate the water shortage in the area and improve the living conditions of the people”.
According to the statement, the projects are part of the MNJTF’s Civil-Military Activities (CIMIC) and will help to strengthen the relationship between the military and civilian populations in the region recovering from Boko Haram crisis.
The handover ceremony was attended by local authorities, community leaders, and representatives of development partners. It symbolizes the commitment of the MNJTF and its partners to promoting peace, stability, and development in the areas affected by Boko Haram.
The statement added that, the MNJTF is working closely with other stakeholders to restore normalcy in the region and provide the necessary support for the humanitarian and development needs of the affected communities.