Author: The Nation

A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), Madinma Foundation, has called on the Federal Government and Nigerians at large to take immediate action to alleviate the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the country.

It also called on Nigerians at large to contribute their quota in ameliorating the humanitarian crisis faced by these vulnerable individuals to ensure their wellbeing.

The Chief Executive Officer of NGO, Dr. Chidinma Ogwo made the call during a press briefing in Abuja to shed light on the dire conditions faced by IDPs and call for urgent intervention.

Highlighting the scale of the crisis, Dr. Ogwo said providing adequate support to IDPs regardless of their geographical location would demonstrate Federal Government’s commitment to human rights and social justice.

She also urged Nigerians to demonstrate compassion and solidarity by supporting IDPs through donations, volunteering, and advocacy.

Her words, “These individuals have been uprooted from their homes, separated from their families due to conflicts, natural disasters, and other socio-economic challenges and are living in dire conditions. “They often find themselves in overcrowded camps or makeshift settlements, lacking basic necessities such as food, clean water, shelter, and healthcare.

Many of them have endured extreme trauma and have lost loved ones, struggling to rebuild their lives in unfamiliar and challenging circumstances.”

The CEO stated further that addressing the needs of IDPs was crucial for national stability and development.”

Displaced individuals often face a loss of livelihoods, limited access to education, and a lack of economic opportunities and this situation can lead to a cycle of poverty and dependency, hindering overall progress and exacerbating social inequalities.”

By investing in the welfare of IDPs, the government can help break this cycle and foster inclusive growth, thereby contributing to the nation’s long-term stability and prosperity.”

The Federal Government should also recognize that the plight of IDPs has far-reaching implications beyond the immediate humanitarian crisis as the presence of large numbers of displaced persons puts a strain on host communities, which may already be grappling with limited resources and infrastructure.

“Neglecting the needs of IDPs can lead to increased tensions, social unrest, and even further displacement and therefore, by addressing the challenges faced by IDPs, the government can foster social cohesion and prevent the escalation of conflicts,” Dr Ogwo said.

To alleviate the plights of IDPs, she recommended several key measures to prioritizing the provision of essential services, including food, clean water, healthcare, and shelter.

“Government and well spirited individuals should establish more vocational training centers for IDPs so as to enable them become self reliant and also contribute to national Development.

“Moreover, the Government should collaborate with international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive response to the IDP crisis,” she said.

While noting that IDP camps provide temporary refuge only, Dr. Ogwo appealed to the Federal Government to address the underlying causes of displacement and also facilitate the safe and dignified return of IDPs to their communities whenever possible.