• UN puts number of IDPs at nearly 76 million
Vice President Kashim Shettima, yesterday, made a strong case for a global partnership that addresses the problem of internal displacement in Nigeria, pledging the Federal Government’s commitment to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens.

He made the call during the launch of the ‘State Action Plans on Durable Solution to Internal Displacement’ at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where he welcomed the support of the United States and other global partners, stressing that the task ahead demands a united front that transcends political divides.

This came as he outlined the strategy adopted by the administration in tackling Nigeria’s internal displacement challenge, saying the nation prioritises the welfare of its people, particularly in these critical times.

Specifically, the action plan is a United Nations Secretary General’s Solution Agenda on Internal Displacement aimed at helping internally displaced persons (IDPs) find a durable solution to their problem, as well as preventing new displacement crises and ensuring those facing displacement receive effective protection and assistance.

Unveiling the programme, being implemented in four northern states of Adamawa, Benue, Borno and Yobe, Shettima submitted: “For a country that has endured the devastations of economic disadvantages across generations, we cannot afford further expansion in the displacement of our people. So, we remain committed to ensuring that each displaced individual returns to a safer environment and is given a lifeline to start afresh.”

The Vice President recalled his experience dealing with conflict and displacement, just as he emphasised the need for a collaborative, cross-border approach to tackle the multi-faceted challenge.

“Let us harness the strength of our partnerships, both local and international, to bring about lasting change,” he urged.

Shettima continued: “We are here to craft solutions that will outlive us, that will offer future generations a place of hope, a home for all, and a land of opportunities where dreams can be pursued without worry. The journey is not merely about addressing the symptoms of displacement but also about tackling the root causes,” he stated.

Outlining the strategy of the Tinubu administration, Shettima pledged investment in sustainable development, education, and economic opportunities as critical components of a comprehensive solution.

“By doing so, we not only address the immediate needs of the displaced, but also create a foundation for a more stable and prosperous future,” he said.

He called for collaborative efforts transcending borders to bring about lasting change, stating that “the task ahead is immense, but with determination, unity, and a clear vision, we can make a profound difference.”

On its part, the United Nations commended the efforts of the state governments in drafting action plans for durable solutions to the challenge.

Speaking virtually, UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, submitted that attaining such solutions “is a priority for Nigeria and the United Nations Secretary-General,” adding that the global number of IDPs has doubled in 10 years to nearly 76 million.

“Over four million Nigerians remain in search of solutions to their forced displacement,” she stated, noting that the state’s action plans “capture the first essential steps towards solutions.”

Earlier in his remarks, the UN Assistant Secretary-General and Special Advisor on Durable Solutions, Robert Piper, commended Nigeria’s commitment, and leadership in being the first country among the 15 pilot countries to launch the programme.

“Today, despite the warnings and the real challenges, I have the honour to say, on behalf of the Secretary-General, that Nigeria is the first of all our 15 pilot countries to formally launch government plans placing over four million IDPs and returnees on pathways to solutions,” he remarked.

Piper said the launch of the programme is evidence of the political commitment to addressing the plight of IDPs in Nigeria, observing: “In many ways, the plans you launch today provide a model of how governments can take responsibility for ending displacement.”

On his part, Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, said the state government is fully committed to the implementation of the ‘Action Plans on Durable Solutions’, promising that 15 per cent of the state’s yearly budget would be dedicated to projects undertaken under the initiative.