Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima has called for enhanced partnership to address the humanitarian challenges facing regions across the country affected by crises.
Shettima said that there was an urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the interconnected problems of climate change and migration across Nigeria, as they are directly linked to the economic well-being of the population.
The VP spoke on Friday when he received a delegation from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) led by its Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche, at the Presidential Villa.
In a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media and Communications (Office of The Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, the VP called for practical and inclusive solutions to the complex intersection of migration, poverty, conflict, and ecological disruption.
“I have worked with the IOM for a long time, from my days as Governor of Borno State, and I must commend your remarkable interventions in supporting our people. But much more pragmatic and all-inclusive solutions are needed.
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“I urge you to support us in the North-Central, so we can have a win-win, workable solution that fosters unity and brings progress to our people,” VP Shettima said.
He, however, decried poverty, illiteracy, and environmental degradation fuelling displacement and insecurity across several regions, saying that there is an “incestuous relationship” between ecology and economy in sub-Saharan Africa.
“You cannot divorce the challenges of migration from climate-induced effects. Even the crises in the North-East, North-West, and North-Central have direct links between poverty and violence,” he added.
He also urged the IOM to scale up support for gender empowerment and land reclamation efforts, particularly in areas affected by deforestation and displacement.
The IOM Nigeria Chief of Mission, Sharon Dimanche, commended Nigeria’s significant strides in migration governance and disaster preparedness.
Dimanche praised Nigeria’s ongoing efforts in migration governance and disaster preparedness, noting that the diversity of the country presents both challenges and opportunities for tailored interventions.
“Since I came to Nigeria, what I have seen is remarkable. Every state is different. It’s like one Africa wrapped into one country. We are particularly impressed with the launch of the State Action Plan on Floods and the Framework for Anticipatory Action for Nigeria,” she said.
She reaffirmed the IOM’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s durable solutions agenda, including through data provision, shelter support, climate resilience initiatives, and youth empowerment.
She added, “As I take over office, we seek the government’s guidance on areas to focus on. One of our key priorities is working to provide sustainable solutions and opportunities for people affected by the crisis.
“I would like to request for a special initiative where we can co-work with your office and mobilise resources for more durable solutions to immigration, youth empowerment, and climate resilience.”
Story was adapted from Channels.
