In a commendable display of responsiveness and compassion, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has taken a decisive step to resettle displaced communities of Southern Kaduna affected by various incidences of insecurity.
Governor Sani’s action is in response to a recommendation from the State Security Council, which on November 8, 2023 recommend to the government the need to constitute a committee to resettle displaced communities.
Inaugurating the committee today in a brief ceremony that took place at Government House, Deputy Governor Balarabe, who is the chair of the 10-member committee, stressed the importance of the committee’s task and the responsibility towards the affected persons who are “citizens who have been displaced from their homes due to various challenges.
While noting that Southern part of Kaduna has seen its fair share of displacement due to the incidents of violence plaguing the state, she stressed that the plight of these displaced persons weighs heavily on our collective conscience, and it is crucial that we take decisive action to address their needs and facilitate their resettlement.
The committee has the Secretary to the State Government, Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, and the chairmen of Jema’a, Kaura, and Zangon Kataf Local Government Areas, as members, among others.
Dr Balarabe also said the primary objective is to devise comprehensive strategies for the effective resettlement of displaced persons in the Southern part of Kaduna State. “This entails also facilitating them access to basic amenities, healthcare, education, and livelihood opportunities. Moreover, we must prioritize the restoration of their sense of dignity and belonging within their communities.
“It is crucial that we approach this task with empathy, sensitivity, fairness, sense of urgency and a commitment to inclusivity. We must actively engage with the displaced communities, listening to their voices, understanding their concerns, and involving them in the decision-making processes that affect their lives. By fostering a participatory approach, we can ensure that our efforts are truly responsive to the needs and aspirations of those we seek to assist.
Furthermore, we must leverage the expertise and resources available to us, both within the government and through partnerships with relevant stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations, community-based organizations, and humanitarian agencies. Collaboration will be key to our success, as we work towards the common goal of facilitating the dignified return and sustainable reintegration of displaced persons into their communities.
“Together, we have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our fellow citizens, and I am confident that with our collective efforts, we can achieve our objectives and bring hope and stability to those in need. After all, I believe in the experience that each member of this formidable team can bring to bear in the work of this committee. You have each been tested and proven.”