Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for a global partnership to address the problem of internal displacement in Nigeria, pledging the federal government's unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of displaced citizens.

He outlined the strategy adopted by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration in tackling Nigeria's internal displacement challenge, saying the nation prioritizes the welfare of its people, particularly in these critical times.

The Vice President made the call on Monday during the “Launch of the State Action Plans on Durable Solution to Internal Displacement” at the Presidential Villa Abuja.

The Action Plan is a United Nations Secretary General's Solution Agenda on Internal Displacement which aims to help internally displaced persons find a durable solution to their displacement, prevent new displacement crises from emerging and ensure those facing displacement receive effective protection and assistance.

Unveiling the programme being implemented in three northern states of Adamawa, Benue, Borno and Yobe, VP Shettima said, “For a country that has endured the devastations of economic disadvantages across generations, govt cannot afford further expansion in the displacement of the people.
He said govt remain committed to ensuring that each displaced individual returns to a safer environment and is given a lifeline to start afresh.
He recalled his experience dealing with conflict and displacement, just as he emphasized the need for a collaborative, cross-border approach to tackling the multifaceted challenge. "Let us harness the strength of our partnerships, both local and international, to bring about lasting change," he urged.

The Vice President welcomed the support of the United States and other global partners, stressing that the task ahead demands a united front that transcends political divides.

Outlining the strategy of the Tinubu administration, Shettima pledged investment in sustainable development, education, and economic opportunities as critical components of a comprehensive solution.
He called for collaborative efforts transcending borders to bring about lasting change, stating that "the task ahead is immense, but with determination, unity, and a clear vision, we can make a profound difference".

On its part, the United Nations commended the efforts of the state governments in drafting action plans for durable solutions to internal displacement.

Earlier in his remarks, the UN Assistant Secretary-General and Special Advisor on Durable Solutions, Mr Robert Piper, commended Nigeria’s commitment and leadership in being the first country among the 15 pilot countries to launch the programme.

Piper said the launch of the programme is evidence of the political commitment to addressing the plight of IDPs in Nigeria, noting that “in many ways, the plans you launch today provide a model of how governments can take responsibility for ending displacement.

On his part, Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, said the state government is fully committed to the implementation of the Action Plans on Durable Solutions, noting that 15% of the state’s annual budget will be dedicated to projects undertaken under the initiative.

On his part, Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State said the launch of the State Action Plans on Durable Solutions to Internal Displacement is a beacon of hope and catalyst for the transformation of lives and livelihoods in communities affected by conflict.
He commended Vice President Shettima's inspirational leadership as well as the commitment of all the development partners involved in the project which he said aligns with the vision of the Benue State government to build a society where all residents can live in peace and harmony.

On his part, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Montgomery, commended the progress witnessed during his recent visit to the North-East and the government's approach to encouraging more development investments.

He also called for the mobilization of new financing, saying "We need to mobilize additional bilateral and multilateral financing to support these plans.