Donor agencies and Development partners have lauded Yobe state government for becoming the first state to launch a State Policy on Internally Displaced Persons in Nigeria.
The international bodies gave the commendation on Thursday in Abuja at the launch of the policy at the Yar’Adua Centre.
The Policy, which was launched by the state Governor Mai Mala Buni, was well attended by members of the diplomatic community, donor agencies, the World Bank, and other development partners.
The World Bank, National Emergency Management Agency, and the National Commission for Refugees among others, said the policy having been developed in compliance to best practices and standards would sufficiently protect the interest of displaced persons in the state.
Buni, on his part, said that the state government took deliberate and calculated measures to come up with the policy document that is holistic, comprehensive, and in compliance with international standards.
He added that: “This policy was a result of extensive consultations and collaboration with a wide array of stakeholders, including UN agencies, the World Bank, the Federal Government of Nigeria, local communities, non-governmental organizations, Civil Society Organizations, traditional rulers, international donor partners, and notably the displaced persons themselves and representatives of various communities. It embodies our collective determination to protect the rights and dignity of IDPs, offering them a pathway to regain their stability and rebuild their lives towards a durable solution.”
The governor said: “By prioritizing the holistic well-being of IDPs, we aim to foster sustainable development and promote peace and stability within our state and across Nigeria. The policy is grounded in key principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence. It outlines our strategic objectives in providing protection, ensuring access to essential services, and fostering sustainable solutions for displacement.
“Furthermore, today’s launching serves as a testament to our commitment to transparency, accountability, and collaboration. We recognize that the success of this policy hinges on the concerted efforts of all sectors of society, including government agencies, civil society, the private sector, and international partners. It is through these partnerships that we can mobilize the necessary resources, expertise, and support to effectively implement this policy.”
He stated that his administration has made a name in accountability, transparency, probity, and good governance which earned the State a prestigious award from the State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability, a World Bank assisted programme.
He said: “I, therefore, want to reassure you that all resources mobilised to support the state policy on internally displaced persons in the state.”
