In a concerted effort to support Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) across several Nigerian states, the federal government, European Union (EU), state governors, and key partners have introduced two innovative programs aimed at providing relief and sustainable solutions.
The newly launched projects are the EU Support for Internally Displaced Persons in Yobe, Adamawa, Benue, and Kano states (SIDPIN), alongside the EU Support for Protection, Assistance, and Durable Solutions in Sokoto (SPADS).
At the Abuja unveiling, Gautier Mignot, head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasized that these initiatives, collectively valued at 15 million euros, underscore the EU’s unwavering dedication to promoting human dignity, resilience, and long-term development for displaced individuals and their host communities.
He explained, “In partnership with federal and state authorities, as well as organizations such as the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), and Danish Refugee Council (DRC), we are committed to driving this program forward. Our approach centers on local integration within urban and rapidly urbanizing areas, employing a comprehensive, multi-level, and area-focused territorial strategy.”
“The primary goal is to enhance sustainable solutions through local integration, with particular attention to the needs of women and children. We strive to elevate the quality of life for displaced populations and their host communities in Adamawa, Yobe, Benue, Kano, and Sokoto by implementing scalable and replicable urban integration models.”
“Displacement in Nigeria, especially in the North East, North Central, and North West regions, has impacted over 3.5 million individuals. These figures represent more than mere data-they reflect disrupted lives, postponed aspirations, and families uprooted from their homes and futures. Many displaced persons yearn to return to their original communities.”
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State praised the EU and its partners for their commitment, assuring that his administration is dedicated to ensuring the program’s effective execution for the welfare of displaced persons.
He remarked, “Displacement has become a persistent crisis in many parts of Nigeria. In Benue, as in Adamawa, Sokoto, Yobe, and Kano, displacement is not just a number; it is a harsh reality. Mothers are raising children in temporary shelters, farmers are unable to tend their lands, and host communities are stretched thin as they accommodate those in need.”
“To truly address internal displacement, we must move beyond short-term aid and focus on durable solutions that guarantee safety, security, economic independence, and foster community harmony.”
Representatives of the governors from Adamawa, Kano, Sokoto, and Yobe highlighted that these initiatives transcend humanitarian aid, encompassing developmental goals. They expressed gratitude to the EU for the chance to restore and rebuild the lives of displaced persons, offering them renewed hope.
They concurred that this initiative presents a strategic platform to bolster resilience, social unity, and economic revitalization in the affected states, while enhancing their institutional capacities. They also urged all stakeholders to tackle the underlying causes of conflict in these regions.
Mohamed Fall, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, underscored the power of collaboration, stating that through joint efforts, the dignity of displaced individuals can be restored and meaningful support provided.
