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Humanitarian ministry launches IDP policy, reels out achievements

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The minister of Humanitarian Affiairs, disaster Management and Social Development Hajia Sadiya Umar Farouq on Tuesday launched the National Policy on Internally Displaced Persons (IDP)
The launch took place during the ministry’s maiden humanitarian Open House at Sheraton Hotel Abuja.


The policy which has the blessing of the Federal Government the minister said intends to provide a framework for national responsibility towards prevention and protection of citizens and, in some cases, non-citizens, from incidences of arbitrary and other forms of internal displacement.
According to her the policy is also intended to meet the assistance and protection needs of IDPs during displacement, and ensure their rehabilitation, return, reintegration and relocation after displacement.
“As you are aware, the process of developing and adoption of the policy commenced in 2001, within this period the initial draft of the policy have been reviewed severally to reflect new realities and emerging trends in humanitarian space in Nigeria.


“The policy spells out principles guiding humanitarian assistance and implementation of durable solutions in situations of internal displacement in Nigeria and has adopted the human rights-based approach and its principles.
“It integrated the provisions of existing international conventions, treaties and protocols on internal displacement, guided by the dictates of international humanitarian and human rights laws.” She pointed out that the policy draws extensively on the guidance of international and national frameworks on the prevention of internal displacement, as well as those on protection and assistance of internally displaced persons.

“The Kampala Convention, the UN Guiding Principles on internal displacement and the Sphere Minimum Standards for Humanitarian Assistance have significantly defined the direction of this policy.
“This policy envisions an equitable and stable Nigerian society that is proactive and responsive to situations that could lead to internal displacement, where the right to life of dignity is guaranteed for all internally displaced persons and where adequate measures and durable solutions exist to prevent and mitigate the impact of internal displacement on vulnerable populations.”
The minister charged the National Coordination Technical Working Group and other relevant stakeholders to commence elaboration of implementation plan with clear roles and responsibilities of all actors to ensure efficient and effective implementation of the policy
“The plan should incorporate a monitoring and evaluation strategy which will ensure compliance with policy framework and scope as well as determining the extent of achievement of policy goals and objectives.
“Further to this, permit me to inform you that we have commenced the standalone process of domesticating African Union Kampala convention. “The relevant stakeholders is hereby charged to come up with the draft bill for onward presentation to the FEC and then transmitted to the National Assembly for necessary legislative action.”
Umar Farouq indicated that the maiden edition of the Humanitarian Open House was a strategic communications initiative.
“It is a Strategic Communication initiative that brings together the partners, stakeholders, media private sector, development partners, CSOs/NGOs.
During the event a scorecard of the Ministry’s programmes, projects and interventions was presented.
She said when the ministry was created on the 21st of August 2019 by President Muhammadu Buhari it was for the need to harmonize, synergize, institutionalize as well as provide coordination of all government’s humanitarian and social interventions.
Hence she said the activities of the Ministry impacts directly on the well-being of poor and vulnerable Nigerians and contributes to the socio-economic development of the country.
“Understandably, this has placed the Ministry in a close friendship with the media sector in Nigeria, humanitarian actors, Civil Society Organizations (CSO’s), collaborating Ministries Departments and Agencies.
“In order for the Ministry to effectively provide the much needed and desired coordination and leadership it must have a means of effectively and consistently communicating its progress, challenges and engaging partners with and engaging partners, stakeholders and the public.
“It is against this background that the Humanitarian Open House is being hosted with the theme ‘Coordinating for Durable Humanitarian Solutions; the Journey so far.
’The Theme has been carefully chosen to allow the Ministry speak on its coordinating efforts, activities and achievements as well as milestones being attained, results being delivered and more importantly the impact the Ministry and indeed government is making in the lives of Nigerians.”

The minister later presented the Ministry’s Information Brochure and the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) Information brochure to the public.

The brochure is an information book containing all information on the Ministry, its Departments, Programmes and Agencies. In the same vein, a pictorial Compedium chronicling the programmes, activities and achievements of the Ministry was also unveiled while the Minister took the guests on a tour of the Humanitarian Pavilions.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Speaker, Nigeria’s House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila, who was represented by Hon Muhammad Jega, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Bashir Nura Alkali who was represented by Director Humanitarian Affairs, Alhaji Ali Grema and the UN Resident Coordinator Matthias Schmale who pledged continued support to the Ministry in areas concerning IDPs.

Other dignitaries in attendance were Heads of Agencies under the Ministry, CSOs/NGOs, Heads of NSIP Clusters, Directors in the ministry, Strategic Partners, Editors and Humanitarian Affairs correspondents.

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Refrain from dragging Nigeria through the mud, Tinubu admonishes religious leaders

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President Bola Tinubu has admonished doom and gloom merchants who denigrate their own country in the guise of religious sermons as leaders to refrain from such forthwith

Speaking during Ramadan Iftar with traditional and religious leaders at the State House on Thursday in Abuja, the President emphasized the important role of reiterated leaders in shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of unity among citizens.

He urged the leaders to be more constructive in their criticism of those in elective positions.

President Tinubu also declared that his administration is determined to turn Nigeria’s challenges into opportunities for prosperity.
He declared that no terrorist can defeat the collective will of Nigerians, no matter how hard they try to prey on innocent citizens.
The President further urged traditional and religious leaders to forge a strong bond with the government to defeat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality in the country.

”Yesterday in Abuja, I attended the burial of the 17 soldiers killed in action at Okuama, Delta State. I saw their pregnant wives and little kids.

”The love of the nation is in your hands. Pray for our country. Educate our children. The sermons we preach to the members of our churches and mosques are important.

”Do not condemn your own nation. As a Yoruba man and as our fathers will say, ‘No matter how slippery the bottom of your child is, you must leave the beads there.’

”Leave the beads there. This is your country; do not condemn it in sermons, do not abuse the nation. Leadership is meant for change.

”Yes, this leader is bad, fine. Wait until the next election to change him, but do not condemn your country. Do not curse Nigeria. This is a beautiful land.

The President, who acknowledged the birthday wishes and goodwill extended to him on the occasion, reminded the leaders that his birthday on March 29, 2024, coincided with Good Friday.

”I have earned the honour of having my birthday fall on Good Friday, and I pray that on this Maundy Thursday, you all shall return to your homes safely. May God guide and keep you and your families in good health, and lift your spirits,” the President prayed.
Various speakers at the dinner expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to come together in the spirit of Ramadan to share a meal with the President and renew the bonds of friendship that unite the nation.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima reiterated the pivotal roles religious and traditional rulers play in promoting peace and unity, as he urged them to continue to ‘‘build bridges that transcend ethnic and religious divides.’’

The Vice-President expressed delight that the nation’s economy is on a rebound with the strengthening of the naira against the dollar.

”The President means well for the nation, and he has continued to redefine the meaning and concept of modern leadership.

”For many years, fuel subsidy was an albatross. The President took a bold decision from day one, and he hit the ground running. Now the economy is turning the corner,” the Vice-President said.

Speaking on behalf of the Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, assured the President of the unwavering support of traditional rulers and commended the government’s efforts to address the hike in food prices and the security challenges.

”You are not alone, Mr. President. The prices of food items and goods are gradually coming down. You are doing your best on security, and we cannot allow you to do it alone. We will join hands to support your vision for the betterment of our nation,” the Ooni said.

Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, Emir of Zazzau, speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), highlighted the significance of Ramadan as a period of reflection, empathy, and unity.

On the security situation in the country, the Emir of Zazzau, who represented the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of NSCIA, expressed optimism that the country will return to peace and stability.

”I am happy to see representatives of Muslim and Christian communities in this room. I pray God Almighty blesses the President for him to do more to take the country to the Promised Land,” the Emir prayed.

Apostle Samson Fatokun, General Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), noted that the Ramadan dinner with religious and traditional leaders, coincided with Maundy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter, observed in commemoration of Jesus Christ’s institution of the Eucharist during the Last Supper.

The General Secretary, who delivered the address of CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, commended President Tinubu for fostering a harmonious relationship between the State and the Church.

”We are encouraged that your administration has shown great determination in tackling the challenges of kidnapping and banditry and bringing to justice the perpetrators of this dastardly act.

”We shall continue to show our support to your administration so that you can execute your noble intention for the nation,” CAN General Secretary said.

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Senator Natasha felicitates with Christians, Nigerians, preaches peace, love at Easter

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
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The senator representing Kogi Central senatorial district, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
has sent a message of felicitation to Christian faithful and all Nigerians as they mark Easter Celebration

The Senator who lauded the selfless love of Christ for humanity, urged Nigerians to emulate His virtues, and live in peace and love.
This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by her Chief Press Secretary Arogbonlo Israel.

The statement quoted the senator to have admonished Nigerians to use the occasion to seek the face of God for continuous peace and harmony in Nigeria.

“Let us emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ by impacting the lives of those around us and contributing to the growth of Kogi Central and Nigeria at large.

“We should strive to embody the virtues of humility, compassion, and undying love that were demonstrated by Jesus Christ. May the blessings of Easter and the power of the resurrection reignite our faith in both God and humanity. I wish you all a joyous celebration.”

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Don calls for international appreciation of northern Nigerian Literature

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Professor Abel Joseph,
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By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja.

Professor of African and Post Colonial Literary Studies, Abel Joseph, has called for International Appreciation of Northern Nigerian Literature for global literary canonisation in view of its contributions to the literary world and historical antecedence.

The Don who is of the Department of English and Literary studies, Federal University Lokoja, disclosed this while delivering the 17th Inaugural lecture series of the university on Thursday in Lokoja.

Speaking on the topic: “Weaving the tapestry of northern Nigeria fictional imaginaries from the provincial to the pluriversal”, the professor described Northern Nigerian literature as a treasure trove of voices and narratives.

He said that in order for the Northern Nigerian literature to find its space within the global literary canon, there must be strategic, deliberate and sustained efforts in terms of collaborations involving authors, publishers, translators, educators, and policymakers.

He advocated for the introduction of Northern Nigerian literature and cultural studies into educational curricula of tertiary institutions if not nationally, at least in the Universities in Northern Nigeria.

“In practical terms, regional literature modules or Courses can be introduced and integrated into existing literature programmes in the Departments of English and Literary Studies.

“Through this, students would be exposed to works from the region to provide a richer perspective of what constitutes the Nigerian literature” Prof. Abel hinted.

He advocated Investments in translation initiatives or projects to make the literature accessible to a wider audience adding that translating works for indigenous languages can break down language barriers and enable global readership.

He also called for organization of literary festivals and events to encourage participation in international literary festivals, book fairs, and events.

“These platforms provide opportunities for authors to present their works and engage with imternational audiences and network with publishers, translators and fellow writers.

Prof. Abel Joseph also called fort the establishment of a Centre for Nigerian Cultural Studies in Federal University Lokoja to midwife a project to canonize Northern Nigerian writers.

He stressed that the FUL could live up to the general and statutory expectations of a “Centre of Learning aware of, and vibrantly responding to emerging ideational values and their nuances for research, Pedagogy, and innovation.

“In this center, scholars can research on significant historical and archaeological aspects of Nigeria’s fast disappearing cultural ethos”, he said.

The Don held that the Center would further secure for the University that capacity for knowledge production and the possible canonisation of Northern Nigerian literary writers.

“Same in much the same instances that, for example, Universities of Ibadan, Lagos, Nigeria (Nsukka), Benin, Obafemi Awolowo, have succeeded in canonising Nigerian writers like Achebe, Clark, Soyinka, Okigbo, Okpewho, Osundare, lyayi, Ojaide, and a host of others.

“It would help rein in other gifted but neglected Nigerian Writers from within the immediate valance of central Nigeria and beyond”, he said. (Ends)

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