President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is actively working to improve the welfare of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Nigeria, according to Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu. Speaking at a United Nations special online event to mark the 27th anniversary of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement, Kalu assured international stakeholders that the country is making real progress in this area.
During the high-level panel, Kalu highlighted that Nigeria has already ratified the Kampala Convention, a regional treaty designed to protect and support displaced populations, and is now taking key steps to include it in the country’s legal system. A bill aimed at domesticating the convention has passed in the House of Representatives and is currently awaiting concurrence in the Senate. Once approved, it will be sent to President Tinubu for his signature. The Senate is expected to consider the bill once it resumes on April 29.
Kalu said the proposed law reflects critical values such as protection against forced displacement, rights during displacement, and the right of IDPs to return or rebuild their lives in safe communities. These values, he explained, are essential for preserving the dignity and human rights of those affected by conflict and crises.
He noted that beyond legislation, the federal government is already taking practical steps to improve the lives of displaced Nigerians. He cited recent examples in Nasarawa and Kano States, where more than 300 IDPs have been resettled and over 40 homes constructed. These projects, including the development of resettlement cities like the one in Keffi, reflect what he called “a deliberate and determined effort” by the government to create long-term solutions.
Kalu also emphasized the work of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), which was established through a 2022 Act of Parliament. The Commission is leading efforts to coordinate resettlement and rehabilitation programs across Nigeria. It is also helping displaced individuals and families rebuild their lives through economic reintegration and livelihood support.
He explained that a National Policy on IDPs is already in place to offer a structured and consistent approach for managing displacement challenges across the country. The policy, he added, is helping to guide coordinated actions among government ministries, departments, agencies, and international partners.
Kalu called for continued collaboration with local and global stakeholders, and stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of displacement while also supporting those already affected. He concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s strong commitment to upholding the rights of displaced persons and ensuring they have access to sustainable, dignified living conditions.
The Deputy Speaker expressed confidence that with the current momentum, both legislative and executive arms of government will soon fully align with the Kampala Convention, creating a safer, more supportive environment for millions of Nigerians who have been forced to flee their homes.
