Nigeria’s House of Representatives Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, has urged the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and IDPs to provide data on internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nigeria and neighboring countries affected by natural disasters. Kalu made this call during a courtesy visit by Federal Commissioner Tijani Ahmed in Abuja.
Kalu attributed displacements to natural disasters like flooding and erosion, emphasizing climate-induced displacement ¹. He stressed the need for increased budgetary allocation to the commission to address the issue effectively. The commission has two weeks to submit a comprehensive report on IDPs and climate-induced displacement.

According to Our World in Data, natural disasters displace millions globally each year. In Nigeria, Kalu noted that climate change has severe impacts, citing Maiduguri as an example. He emphasized the government’s responsibility to address mitigation and adaptation.
Key Points:
- Data Request: Kalu demands data on IDPs in Nigeria and neighboring countries.
- Climate-Induced Displacement: Natural disasters like flooding and erosion cause displacement.
- Budget Increase: Kalu advocates for increased funding to address IDP issues.
- Report Deadline: The commission has two weeks to submit a comprehensive report.
- Global Context: Natural disasters displace millions worldwide annually.