Katsina Joins Forces with UNHCR and TGI to Address IDP Crisis

The Katsina State Government, led by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, has launched a groundbreaking initiative in collaboration with the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive support and sustainable solutions for the approximately 250,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) residing in the state.

The Executive Director of the Katsina State Development Management Board, Maryam Musa Yahaya, revealed this development during a visit to project sites in the state. She stated that this effort follows the successful Peace and Security Summit for northwestern Nigeria and aligns with Governor Radda’s goals, the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the UN Secretary General’s Action Agenda.

The initiative focuses on finding durable solutions for IDPs, preventing future displacement crises, and ensuring effective protection and assistance for the vulnerable. Key components of the initiative include:

1. Transition from IDP Camps: Governor Radda has closed all IDP camps in Katsina State, integrating displaced communities into villages and cities to provide better access to resources and opportunities.

2. Special Advisory and Support Teams: Special advisors on IDPs and dedicated offices for digital inclusion and irrigation have been established to prioritize the needs of displaced persons.

3. Mobile One-Stop Shop for Essential Services: A mobile service delivery unit will provide essential documentation and services such as National Identification Numbers (NIN), Bank Verification Numbers (BVN), bank accounts, and inclusion in the social register.

4. Agricultural Empowerment and Economic Growth: The government is allocating arable land, high-quality seeds, fertilizers, and other agricultural inputs to 1,000 IDPs and vulnerable households, focusing on empowering women. Expanded irrigation networks will improve agricultural productivity and stabilize livelihoods.

Maryam Musa Yahaya reiterated the state government’s commitment to empowering IDPs to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. She invited partners and stakeholders to join in this transformative effort to address the challenges faced by IDPs and build a more resilient and inclusive society.