The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has commended Nigeria’s progress in migration governance and disaster preparedness, as Vice President Kashim Shettima called for deeper partnerships to address humanitarian and ecological challenges across the country.
During a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa on Friday, IOM’s Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche, praised the government’s efforts, particularly the launch of the State Action Plan on Floods and the Framework for Anticipatory Action for Nigeria.
She described Nigeria as ‘one Africa wrapped into one country’, noting that its diversity presents both challenges and opportunities for tailored interventions.
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“We are particularly impressed with the government’s commitment. As I take office, one of our key priorities is to work on sustainable solutions for people affected by crises. We seek your guidance and collaboration for initiatives in youth empowerment, climate resilience, and durable migration solutions,” Dimanche said.
Mr Shettima, in response, urged the IOM to scale up support, especially in Nigeria’s North Central region.
He stressed the need for practical, inclusive solutions to the interlinked issues of migration, poverty, ecological disruption, and insecurity.
“I have worked with IOM since my days as Governor of Borno State and appreciate your efforts, but we need more pragmatic, all-inclusive solutions.
“There is an incestuous relationship between ecology and economy in sub-Saharan Africa— the challenges of migration are inseparable from climate-induced effects,” Mr Shettima said.
He highlighted how poverty, illiteracy, and environmental degradation were fuelling displacement and insecurity across the North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions.
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Quoting Martin Luther King Jr., he added: “We must either learn to live together as brothers, or we are going to die together as fools. We are one people with a common destiny, united by our common challenges.”
Mr Shettima also appealed for IOM’s support in land reclamation and gender empowerment initiatives, especially in areas affected by deforestation and forced displacement.
Dimanche reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to working with Nigeria on data provision, shelter support, and community resilience, stating that the agency is ready to collaborate closely with the government to mobilise resources for lasting impact.
