Katsina signs MoU with UNHCR, 2 others to empower 600 displaced households
Katsina State Government on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with three partners to provide long term sustainable support to 600 households and communities displaced by banditry in the state.
The partners are the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, UNHCR, and Tropical General Investments (TGI).
The MoU, to be executed under the Livelihoods for Improved Futures for Everyone (LIFE) Project, will provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for the displaced families.
As part of the LIFE Project, the government has allocated 600 hectares to get the displaced persons back to farm.
“This initiative will provide structured agricultural production, employment opportunities, and economic empowerment, ensuring that affected families no longer rely solely on aid but become active contributors to the economy,” Governor Dikko Radda said at the signing ceremony.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing long-term solutions to the humanitarian crisis in the state.
“Katsina State is committed to ensuring that all displaced persons can either return home safely or, where that is not possible, find a dignified alternative where they can live in security and economic stability.
“This initiative is a model for sustainable development and a demonstration of our commitment to empowering our people,” he added.
Radda, who is also the Chairman of North West Governors Forum, said that the success of the initiative will serve as a model for other states in the region facing similar displacement challenges.
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, highlighted federal government’s commitment to integrating social protection programmes into sustainable economic solutions.
“This project will stabilize 600 families in Katsina and, with dry-season irrigation, ensure increased agricultural productivity. We are taking a step closer to tackling food security while ensuring economic independence for some of the most vulnerable families, especially during the lean season.”
The Syndicate reports that TGI, a leading agribusiness conglomerate, will provide technical expertise, agricultural inputs, and zero-interest loans while guaranteeing off-take of all farm produce.
Farouk Gumel, Vice Chairman of TGI, said they were committed to ensuring the success of the project.
“Rural inclusion is central to Nigeria’s economic development. At TGI, we have worked with smallholder farmers nationwide, ensuring they have the support needed to thrive.
“This initiative strengthens food security and promotes a dignified approach to reintegrating displaced persons into productive society.”
Under the project, the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) will support infrastructure development and ensure that the displaced families gain access to irrigation technology and financial services.
Mr. Arjun Jain, UNHCR Representative in Nigeria, reiterated the urgent need for sustainable interventions to reduce the number of displaced persons in Nigeria.
“The number of internally displaced persons across Nigeria continues to rise. We need to find long-term solutions. We are pleased that the Government of Nigeria and Katsina State are taking the lead in this, and we welcome increased private-sector involvement.”
The Syndicate reports that the LIFE project was facilitated by the North West Governors Forum.
