By Shishang John
May 28, 2024
Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for a global partnership to tackle the problem of internal displacement in Nigeria.
He made the call during the “Launch of the State Action Plans on Durable Solution to Internal Displacement” to be implemented in four northern states of Adamawa, Benue, Borno, and Yobe, held at the Presidential Villa Abuja.
In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President outlined the strategy adopted by the President Bola Tinubu administration in tackling Nigeria’s internal displacement challenge, saying the nation prioritises the welfare of its people, particularly in these critical times.
He pledged the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of displaced citizens.
The Action Plan is a United Nations Secretary General’s Solution Agenda on Internal Displacement which aims to help internally displaced persons find a durable solution to their displacement, prevent new displacement crises from emerging, and ensure those facing displacement receive effective protection and assistance.
Unveiling the programme, Shettima said, “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.”
He recalled his experience dealing with conflict and displacement just as he emphasised the need for a collaborative, cross-border approach to tackling the multifaceted challenge.
“Let us harness the strength of our partnerships, both local and international, to bring about lasting change,” he said.
The Vice President welcomed the support of the United States and other global partners, stressing that the task ahead demands a united front that transcends political divides.
“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 opportunity 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.
Speaking virtually through an online conferencing platform, UN Deputy Secretary-General, Ms. Amina J. Mohammed, said attaining such solutions “is a priority for Nigeria and for the United Nations Secretary-General,” noting the global number of internally displaced persons has doubled in ten years to nearly 76 million globally.
North-East and the government’s approach to encouraging more development investments.
“The progress I witnessed during my visit to the North-East recently deserves commendation. “Nigeria is the first to prove that Government-led intervention is possible. We are proud to be part of the process,” he stated.
He also called for the mobilisation of new financing, saying “We need to mobilise additional bilateral and multilateral financing to support these plans”.
