The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) says more than 1.3 million people have been displaced in Nigeria’s North-West as of February 2025 due to insecurity.
IOM Nigeria Chief of Mission, Ms Dimanche Sharon, disclosed this on Monday in Katsina at the launch of a European Union (EU)-supported project, Conflict Prevention, Crisis Response and Resilience (CPCRR).
“Too many families have been displaced, too many farms abandoned, and too many lives disrupted by insecurity. Yet, in spite of these challenges, the people of Katsina and Zamfara have shown resilience, determination, and the will to rebuild,” she said.
She explained that the project would also adopt climate-smart solutions, noting that about 84 per cent of communities depend on agriculture. “Peace is impossible if people cannot farm, graze, and share resources sustainably. It is about building bridges between communities, strengthening trust in local governance, and ensuring that no one is left behind,” she added.
According to her, communities would be at the heart of every decision so that solutions are locally owned, inclusive, and lasting. The project, she said, would focus on addressing root causes of conflict, restoring livelihoods, and strengthening social cohesion, particularly in areas affected by violence and climatic shocks.
EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Gautier Migno, said the EU would continue to work with IOM, Mercy Corps, and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) to bring lasting solutions to insecurity in the region. He stressed that local governments and communities would be central to the effort, describing them as having effective methodologies to address the challenge.
In his remarks, Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina said the event was more than a ceremonial gathering but a powerful affirmation of commitment to heal wounds, restore dignity, rebuild communities, and secure lasting peace. “EU Ambassador to Nigeria, your presence is not just diplomatic, it is symbolic of solidarity, compassion and shared humanity,” he said.
(NAN)