The Katsina state government has announced a collaborative effort with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) to construct approximately one hundred and forty housing units. This was disclosed in an effort to address the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Jibia local government area of the state.
State Governor, Mallam Dikko Umar Radda, affirmed this partnership during a visit by a delegation from the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, led by Federal Commissioner Tijjani Aliyu Ahmed.
Governor Radda disclosed that the state government has secured suitable land for the housing project, with plans to provide fencing and basic infrastructure as part of its counterpart contribution.
“The state government is committed to reducing the number of IDP camps by empowering residents with skills acquisition training,” Governor Radda stated. He emphasized the importance of equipping IDPs with skills to facilitate their reintegration into society and the establishment of their own businesses upon return to their villages.
Furthermore, Governor Radda revealed plans for an empowerment training program in collaboration with development partners to support IDPs in the state.
Expressing gratitude for food support provided by the National Commission for Refugees, Governor Radda highlighted the need for an entrepreneurship center in the northwest region, urging consideration for Katsina State due to its robust Enterprise Development Agency.
In response, Federal Commissioner Tijjani Aliyu Ahmed underscored the federal government’s concern over the activities of bandits in the state. He commended the government and people of Katsina for their response to the challenges posed by displacement.
Commissioner Aliyu Ahmed announced plans to establish skills acquisition training centers across the three geopolitical zones of the North West, North East, and North Central. The initiative aims to equip IDPs with sustainable skills for self-reliance and reduce dependence on camp facilities.
The commission also delivered a consignment of food items to support approximately seven hundred identified refugees in the state.
The collaborative efforts between the Katsina State Government, UNDP, and the National Commission for Refugees reflect a commitment to alleviating the hardships faced by IDPs and fostering sustainable solutions for their reintegration and empowerment.
