The Katsina State Government has partnered with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Tropical General Investments (TGI), and the UNHCR. This collaboration aims to provide sustainable solutions for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and strengthen food security in the region.
Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda hosted key stakeholders, including the Honourable Minister for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, TGI Vice Chairman Farouk Gumel, and UNHCR Representative Arjun Jain, for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Katsina State Government House. This partnership marks a pioneering effort in Nigeria, combining state, federal, private, and international resources.
The initiative will launch the Livelihoods for Improved Futures for Everyone (LIFE) Project, which aims to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for 600 displaced families and members of host communities in Katsina State. The project is designed to transition these families from reliance on aid to active economic participation.
To support this initiative, the Katsina State Government has allocated 600 hectares of farmland for agricultural production. This structured approach will create employment opportunities and empower affected families economically, fostering self-sufficiency and resilience.
During the signing ceremony, Governor Radda emphasized the importance of transforming humanitarian responses into long-term solutions. He stated, “Katsina State is committed to ensuring that all displaced persons can either return home safely or find a dignified alternative where they can live in security and economic stability.”
Minister Yilwatda echoed this sentiment, highlighting the federal government’s commitment to integrating social protection programs into sustainable economic solutions. He noted that the project would stabilize 600 families and enhance agricultural productivity, particularly during the lean season.
TGI’s involvement is crucial, as the agribusiness conglomerate will provide technical expertise, agricultural inputs, and zero-interest loans, ensuring a market for farm produce. Farouk Gumel emphasized the importance of rural inclusion, stating that supporting smallholder farmers is vital for Nigeria’s economic development.
The UNHCR will contribute by supporting infrastructure development and financial inclusion, enabling displaced families to access irrigation technology and financial resources. Arjun Jain stressed the urgent need for sustainable interventions, commending the collaboration as a proactive step towards addressing the rising number of IDPs in Nigeria.
Hikaya Newspaper reports that this initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of IDPs but also represents a broader commitment to regional collaboration. The North West Governors Forum aims to replicate this model across other states facing similar challenges, fostering a more resilient and food-secure North West.
As the LIFE Project progresses, stakeholders will closely monitor its impact and refine strategies to ensure its success. This partnership signifies a transformative approach to tackling displacement and food insecurity, paving the way for a more inclusive and economically stable future for the region.