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NHRC, UNHCR Call for Protection of IDPs’ Rights

Published

3 months ago

November 20, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

NHRC, UNHCR Call for Protection of IDPs’ Rights

By: Michael Mike

National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in collaboration with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) calls for the protection of the rights of internally displaced persons and forcibly displaced persons in Nigeria.

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, alongside national and international stakeholders, convened a high-level policy consultation themed The Protection of IDPs in Nigeria Through Durable Solutions: Strengthening Collaboration Between Governments, Civil Society Organizations, and Humanitarian Partners”. The forum focused on practical strategies to safeguard the rights, dignity, and well-being of displaced Nigerians.

Alia highlighted his administration’s efforts to bring displaced persons closer to their ancestral homes, combining security, autonomy, and dignity. “Where we are as a state today is focused on relocating IDPs as close as possible to their ancestral homes. Before they can fully return, the security situation must be carefully assessed, and in the meantime, we have begun acquiring portions of land in their primary local government headquarters. Here, they can select artisans to construct homes—permanent or temporary, as they choose.

This initiative ensures that displaced persons have options: they can eventually return fully to their ancestral homes while maintaining access to their local headquarters. These lands can serve residential or commercial purposes, providing flexibility and empowering displaced persons to rebuild their lives with dignity and autonomy,” he said.

Addressing misconceptions regarding conflict in Benue, the governor urged accurate representation to ensure effective humanitarian response. “In my state of Benue, we do not experience religious, ethnic, racial, national, or state genocide. While there are security challenges and we have lost lives over the years due to conflicts between agro-pastoralists and farmers, these incidents do not meet the United Nations definition of genocide. Unfortunately, every issue in Nigeria today is politicized, including the plight of IDPs, and this misrepresentation distorts public perception. It is crucial to understand the true nature of the situation so that interventions are based on reality, not exaggeration or political gain,” he explained.

He further emphasized that displacement requires evidence-based, collaborative solutions that uphold human rights and address systemic gaps. “Displacement remains a painful reality for thousands of Nigerians, disrupting lives, livelihoods, and communities. The human rights concerns that accompany displacement—loss of shelter, limited access to healthcare, disrupted education, insecurity, and socioeconomic exclusion—demand a collective and urgent response. I am encouraged that this consultation brings together governors, attorney generals, members of the national and state assemblies, MDAs, civil society organizations, development partners, community-based actors, and representatives of IDP-led organizations.

This inclusive platform demonstrates the seriousness of our national commitment to tackling the root causes of displacement and providing durable solutions that restore hope and dignity to affected populations,” he noted.

Reaffirming the state’s commitment to displaced persons, Governor Alia said, “In Benue State, we remain fully committed to safeguarding the dignity and rights of all displaced persons. Our administration collaborates with national and international partners to provide humanitarian support, strengthen security, and create avenues for sustainable reintegration and recovery. Displacement must never become a permanent condition. Every Nigerian deserves to live in safety, with hope and opportunity. Ultimately, a true measure of our humanity is revealed not by how safe we are, but by how fiercely we protect the rights and dignity of those who have been displaced. These individuals are where they are not by choice or fault, and only God knows when any of us—or our families—might face similar circumstances.”

Alia urged participants to focus on three key areas: strengthening policy and legal frameworks to ensure laws genuinely protect IDPs; addressing protection gaps using evidence from field monitoring and displaced persons’ experiences; and developing durable solutions, including safe return, resettlement, or local integration, with strong coordination, predictable funding, and security guarantees.

On his part, the National Human Rights Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu highlighted the importance of leveraging data from Human Rights Monitors and Community Protection Action Groups to inform policy and interventions. “Through the dedication of our Human Rights Monitors and Community Protection Action Group (CPAG) members, valuable evidence-based data has been generated to guide protection programming, advocacy, policy engagement, and practical interventions by the government and humanitarian actors in Nigeria,” he said.

He also noted the gendered dimension of displacement. “Furthermore, our cumulative figures from February – September confirm that Females (72,119) have consistently outnumbered Males (62,403), confirming the feminization of displacement. Children remain the single largest demographic at 64,058 cumulatively, underscoring persistent vulnerability among minors,” he added.

Acknowledging systemic challenges in monitoring, Ojukwu said, “Limited access to remote or insecure locations, inadequate logistics and communication support, as well as low digital literacy among our CPAG members, are critical issues that limit their effectiveness. We must address the findings from our internal reviews, ensuring that policy and legal frameworks support their efforts, including resolving issues of inadequate funding and securing necessary field resources.”

He stressed the importance of accountability. “On accountability, we must ensure that the cases referred to the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) with protection mandates or other Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) are pursued transparently, sending a clear message that violations against FDPs will not go unpunished,” he said, urging stakeholders to transform displacement from despair into dignity. “This is a solemn test of our collective resolve. I urge all participants to engage candidly, focus on actionable solutions, and leave this room with a renewed determination to transform displacement from a state of despair into one of dignity and recovery.”

Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Benard Doro, called for a shift from emergency relief to sustainable recovery. “The theme of this consultation—‘The Protection of IDPs in Nigeria with Durable Solutions, Strengthening Collaboration Between Government, Civil Society Organisations and Humanitarian Partners’—signals that we must now shift from temporary relief to sustainable recovery, from reactive response to rights-based protection, and from fragmented interventions to unified human development outcomes, ensuring that all displaced persons are treated with dignity, their rights safeguarded, and their long-term needs effectively addressed,” he said.

He emphasized that IDPs are citizens whose constitutional rights must be protected. “Internal displacement in Nigeria is not merely a humanitarian situation; it is a human rights imperative and a constitutional obligation. IDPs are not statistics, they are citizens entitled to full constitutional protection, and as such, our interventions must recognize their dignity, address their vulnerabilities, and ensure their comprehensive inclusion in the development and protection framework of the nation,” he said.

The Minister further urged operationalizing policies and strengthening coordination across agencies. “To achieve meaningful protection and durable solutions for internally displaced persons, we must operationalize the National Policy on IDPs with measurable state-level action plans, strengthen data governance, accountability, and inter-agency coordination, ensuring that NHRC field data is fully integrated into national planning. This approach will allow us to scale up livelihood, health, education, and protection interventions, promote reintegration and resilience, and harmonize the efforts of humanitarian, development, and human rights actors across all levels of government, leaving no displaced person behind.”

He said with a call to transform displacement from vulnerability to dignity. “Protecting the rights of displaced Nigerians is not merely a humanitarian obligation; it is a constitutional and moral responsibility. Displacement is a lived experience affecting millions of our citizens. Let us leave this consultation with renewed resolve—to transform the status of displaced people from despair to dignity, from vulnerability to recovery, and from crisis to opportunity. Let us act together, decisively, and sustainably, ensuring that our interventions have measurable impact, restore livelihoods, uphold human dignity, and provide hope and resilience for every internally displaced person across the nation,” he said.

Representating the country representative Ajun Jain of United Nationals High Commissioner For Refugees (UNHCR)Timothy Zandok , emphasized the global responsibility to protect displaced persons and support national institutions. “Forcibly displaced persons, whether internally displaced, refugees, returnees, or stateless, are often uniquely and adversely disadvantaged within our communal setting. Beyond the data and news headlines, it is crucial to delve deeper into what their lives truly are like, to understand their experiences, and to ensure they are included and supported within our collective capacity as global citizens,” he said .

He further noted the importance of collective responsibility and actionable advocacy. “The experiences of forcibly displaced persons, and what we can collectively do to ensure their inclusion and conservation, represent a responsibility we owe to each other as global citizens. It is for these reasons that we gather, to share expertise, draw upon our experiences, and make impactful recommendations that strengthen the protection and welfare of those whose lives have been disrupted by displacement.

UNHCR highly commends the National Human Rights Commission for boldly undertaking its mandate to protect forcibly displaced persons, and we commit to continuing our support for your leadership and ownership of this responsibility. Through sharing their voices and advocacy, we can collectively contribute to creating an enhanced, protective environment for all displaced persons,”.

NHRC, UNHCR Call for Protection of IDPs’ Rights

News

Lagos Moves to Build West Africa’s Leading International Financial Centre

Published

2 hours ago

February 9, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Lagos Moves to Build West Africa’s Leading International Financial Centre

By: Michael Mike

Lagos State has taken a major step toward repositioning Nigeria as a global investment destination with the unveiling of a comprehensive roadmap to establish a Lagos International Financial Centre (LIFC), envisioned as the leading financial hub in West Africa.

The roadmap is contained in a new report titled “Establishing an International Financial Centre in Lagos (LIFC), Nigeria”, produced by TheCityUK in collaboration with the UK Government, Lagos State Government, the Lagos International Financial Centre Council (LIFCC), and EnterpriseNGR. The report was formally launched at the State House, Marina, Lagos.

The high-level event attracted senior government officials, diplomats, and private sector leaders, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria Jonny Baxter, EnterpriseNGR Chairman Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, and EnterpriseNGR Chief Executive Officer Obi Ibekwe.

The initiative is aligned with Nigeria’s Agenda 2050 and the Lagos State Development Plan 2052, positioning the LIFC as a long-term catalyst for economic transformation. According to the report, the proposed financial centre will deepen capital markets, mobilise international investment, drive innovation, and support sustainable economic growth across Lagos, Nigeria, and the wider West African region.

The report underscores the importance of strong public-private collaboration, noting that Lagos’ demographic advantage, expanding financial ecosystem, and strategic location make it well-suited to host an international financial centre that meets global standards.

One of the report’s core recommendations is the creation of an independent IFC framework for Lagos. This model would provide regulatory certainty, simplified tax and policy regimes, and a transparent governance structure aimed at improving investor confidence and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in global finance.

To differentiate Lagos from other emerging financial centres, the report identifies three priority sectors for initial focus: green and sustainable finance, fintech and financial innovation, and commodities trading and capital markets. These sectors are considered critical to Nigeria’s future economic diversification and resilience.

The report also highlights the need for robust legal and regulatory reforms, calling for close coordination between Lagos State, the Federal Government, regulators, and the private sector to ensure smooth implementation of the LIFC vision.

Human capital development is another key pillar of the strategy. Recommendations include strengthening local talent pipelines, easing visa requirements for international professionals, and creating an enabling environment that supports skills transfer and high-value job creation for Nigeria’s growing youth population.

In addition, the report proposes competitive and targeted tax incentives, streamlined business processes, and investment-friendly policies designed to attract long-term capital aligned with national development priorities.

Speaking at the launch, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to the project, describing the International Financial Centre as essential to boosting market competitiveness and facilitating seamless trading.

“Lagos is Nigeria’s largest economic and financial centre, and we must create an ecosystem that attracts investment, improves liquidity, and strengthens market infrastructure,” the governor said, adding that the LIFC would unlock new opportunities for public-private partnerships in technology and capital market development.

British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter said the report reflects the deepening UK-Nigeria partnership, combining Lagos’ strengths with UK expertise to support financial sector development.

He noted that, if effectively implemented, the LIFC could unlock significant domestic and international investment, expand capital markets, create jobs, and promote sustainable growth beyond Lagos State.

Also speaking, TheCityUK’s Managing Director for International, Nicola Watkinson, described Nigeria as a high-growth market with strong long-term potential. She said the LIFC could play a vital role in attracting global capital, supporting fintech and green finance innovation, and creating high-value employment opportunities for young Nigerians.

With the launch of the report, stakeholders say the focus now shifts to implementation, as Lagos seeks to translate vision into action and establish itself as a globally competitive financial centre for West Africa.

Lagos Moves to Build West Africa’s Leading International Financial Centre

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Transcorp Hilton Abuja Curates All-Inclusive Valentine Weekend Experience

Published

3 hours ago

February 9, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Transcorp Hilton Abuja Curates All-Inclusive Valentine Weekend Experience

By: Michael Mike

As Valentine’s Day approaches, Transcorp Hilton Abuja is set to transform into one of the capital’s premier destinations for romance and social experiences, unveiling an all-inclusive lineup of activities designed for both couples and singles.

This was disclosed in a statement issued at the weekend by the hotel’s Communications and Marketing Manager, Ms Ijeoma Osuji, who said the iconic hospitality brand will host a three-day “Valentine Weekend Package” from February 13 to 15.

According to the statement, the experience is designed to cater to a wide range of guests, from long-term couples seeking a romantic getaway to individuals looking to connect and celebrate the season of love in a vibrant social setting.

For visitors seeking a complete escape, the hotel is offering a bespoke room package that combines luxury accommodation with carefully curated romantic add-ons, promising a serene retreat from the city’s bustle alongside world-class hospitality.

The weekend programme features a diverse mix of entertainment and lifestyle experiences. Among the highlights is the “Signature Couples Event,” a grand and intimate gathering featuring a specially curated Valentine menu, games, music, and comedy performances.

Guests can also look forward to “A Night of Humour,” a comedy showcase featuring top-tier entertainers, aand“Theatre Magic on Stage,” a specially curated romantic stage play designed to engage audiences through powerful storytelling and emotional connection.

For culinary enthusiasts, the hotel will host Dual Restaurant Experiences, with its signature outlets; Zuma Grill and Bukka Restaurant, offering exclusive Valentine-themed dining packages tailored to diverse tastes.

Breaking away from the traditional focus on couples, the hotel is also introducing a Poolside Party for Singles, providing a chic, lively atmosphere for Abuja’s social crowd to mingle under the stars, accompanied by music and refreshing cocktails.

To help guests capture lasting memories, professional couples’ photography sessions will also be available, allowing visitors to document their special moments against the hotel’s scenic backdrops.

“We wanted to create a weekend that wasn’t just a meal, but a memory,” the hotel’s management said in the statement. “Whether it’s through laughter at our comedy special or a beautiful moment captured during a photo session, our goal is to celebrate love in all its forms.”

Reservations for the Valentine Weekend Package are now open, with organisers confident that guests will experience a memorable, immersive celebration at what remains one of Abuja’s most vibrant social hubs.

Transcorp Hilton Abuja Curates All-Inclusive Valentine Weekend Experience

News

APC E-Registration: Ambassador Jidda Leads Committee to Bama, Konduga to Strengthen Party Base

Published

3 hours ago

February 9, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

APC E-Registration: Ambassador Jidda Leads Committee to Bama, Konduga to Strengthen Party Base

By: Michael Mike

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) E-Registration and Reconciliation Committee in Borno State, Ambassador Baba Ahmad Jidda has led a high-powered delegation on a working visit to Bama and Konduga Local Government Areas as part of efforts to deepen grassroots participation in the party’s ongoing electronic registration exercise.

The tour, aimed at monitoring progress and galvanising party members, brought the committee into direct engagement with local government officials, lawmakers, traditional institutions, and party executives across the two councils.

Members of the committee on the visit included Hon. Tijjani Umara Kumalia, Mohammed Makinta, Hon. Busami Ardoram, Hon. Babakura Shettima, Hon. Mohd Maina Tar, Hajiya Mairo Bunu Lawan, Alh. Zanna Mahdi, Alh. Yusuf Adamu, Barrister Ba’ande Imam, and the committee’s Secretary, Dr. Babakura Mamman Gadai.

In Bama, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Shehu of Bama, His Royal Highness Alhaji Dr. Shehu Umar Ibn Kyari, where Ambassador Jidda expressed appreciation for the traditional ruler’s support and the warm reception accorded the team. He described Bama as a community with which he shares deep personal and political ties.

Addressing party leaders and stakeholders at the Bama Government Lodge, Ambassador Jidda recalled the overwhelming support he received from the people of Bama during the 1999 governorship election, describing it as a testament to the area’s enduring commitment to progressive politics.

He reaffirmed that Borno remains a stronghold of the APC, noting that the party’s decisive victories in the 2023 general elections reflected unity, discipline, and effective leadership within the party. According to him, the leadership of Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, mni, has been instrumental in sustaining the party’s dominance and credibility in the state.

Ambassador Jidda emphasised that the ongoing e-registration exercise is a strategic political process that goes beyond record-keeping, explaining that it determines legitimate membership, internal participation, and eligibility for leadership and elective positions within the party.

Speaking on behalf of stakeholders in Bama, Hon. Aji Kolo Ali Gujja, the Matawali of Bama, urged party members to take full advantage of the exercise and ensure total participation. The Chairman of Bama Local Government Area, Hon. Babagana Bagados, also assured the committee of the council’s full support to guarantee a smooth and inclusive registration process.

In Konduga Local Government Area, the committee was received by the council chairman, Dr. Abba Saje Mohd Nur, the area’s representative in the Borno State House of Assembly, and the Executive Secretary of the Borno ICT Development Agency, Hon. Engr. Kabir Wanori, alongside other party stakeholders.

The delegation inspected the APC e-registration centre in the area and expressed satisfaction with the level of coordination and turnout recorded. Local party leaders pledged continued mobilisation to ensure that all eligible members are captured before the close of the exercise.

Ambassador Jidda described the extension of the e-registration exercise as a critical opportunity for APC members in Borno State to reaffirm their loyalty, unity, and numerical strength. He called on ward, local government, and zonal leaders, as well as youth and women groups, to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the February 8 deadline.

He assured party members of a transparent, inclusive, and credible process, urging all APC supporters to participate fully and contribute to strengthening the party’s structure from the grassroots level.

APC E-Registration: Ambassador Jidda Leads Committee to Bama, Konduga to Strengthen Party Base