Over 14000 vulnerable persons in Katsina, Sokoto to receive support
In a significant humanitarian effort, 14,694 vulnerable individuals across Katsina and Sokoto States are set to receive cash, food assistance, as well as livelihood support.
This initiative, the second phase of a relief program, is spearheaded by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, and supported by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP).
The intervention targets Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), refugees, migrants, and other vulnerable groups affected by ongoing security crises in Nigeria’s North-west region. The aid includes support for those displaced by a decade-long security challenge in these states.
Ambassador Olawale Emmanuel of the ECOWAS Commission highlighted that the assistance is funded by an annual Stabilization Fund aimed at aiding the Nigerian government’s efforts to resettle displaced populations. He noted that, in addition to this post-flood assistance, ECOWAS has contributed over $25 million to humanitarian efforts across member states in the past three years.
In Katsina State, the intervention will benefit 7,347 individuals from Jibia and Katsina Local Government Areas. Mrs. Manuel Reinfeld, representative of the WFP, explained that the intervention addresses worsening food security exacerbated by displacement. She emphasized that this phase aims to build on previous successes by fostering local support and ensuring sustainability.
Mr. Olumuyiwa Enitan, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, confirmed that the beneficiaries are genuine victims of displacement due to banditry and other security challenges.
Katsina State Governor Dr. Dikko Radda expressed gratitude to ECOWAS, the WFP, and the Ministry for their support, acknowledging that the assistance will provide much-needed relief to displaced persons in the affected communities.
Reporting by Isma’il Adamu; Editing by Julian Osamoto
