Nigerian Refugees Return Home After 11 Years as Operation Hadin Kai Secures Cross-Border Repatriation

By Zainab Uzomah

Hundreds of Nigerian refugees who spent more than a decade in exile in Cameroon have finally returned home, following a coordinated cross-border operation led by troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Borno State.

The returnees, displaced for over 11 years by insurgency, were escorted safely on 27 January from the Kirawa crossing into Pulka, Gwoza Local Government Area, under heavy security provided by Sector 1 troops, the Civilian JTF and local vigilantes. According to Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the operation reflects the military’s push for people-centred stabilisation efforts across the North-East.

The organised movement began in Minawawu, Cameroon, and was conducted under strict humanitarian and security protocols. It was jointly supervised by the National Commission for Refugees, the Borno State Government and international agencies, including UNHCR and IOM. A delegation representing Governor Babagana Zulum, led by Engineer Wakilbe, joined officials from Gwoza LGA, state lawmakers and humanitarian partners to oversee the process.

On arrival at Maraban Kirawa, the refugees were received by the Commander of 26 Task Force Brigade, Brigadier General Nasiru Abdullahi, before being escorted to the Pulka reception centre. More than 100 households were registered and immediately supported with food, mattresses, cash assistance, clothing and temporary shelter materials provided by state, federal and UN agencies. Medical teams also conducted screenings and administered routine immunisation for children.

Authorities say the repatriation marks another milestone in the gradual restoration of safety and socio-economic activity in Borno, thanks to sustained military pressure on insurgents. The state delegation will return to Cameroon to prepare for additional batches of returning citizens.

The Theatre Command reported a smooth operation and said troops remain alert as the security situation, though improved, “continues to be calm but fluid.” It reaffirmed Operation Hadin Kai’s commitment to protecting civilians, restoring communities and ensuring displaced Nigerians return home with dignity.