United Nations in Nigeria

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Nigeria:

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22 August 2026

Bayelsan Youth Rewriting the Stories of the Niger Delta

From the state capital in Yenagoa, it takes at least two hours to reach communities like Otuan, Ikebiri 1, Ekowe, Ekeremor and Ayamasa in Bayelsa State. For some, the journey doesn’t end on the road - you must continue by boat, navigating winding waterways into riverine communities that are often overlooked.In these hard-to-reach areas live young people exposed to drug abuse, cultism, teenage pregnancy, militancy and limited access to opportunities. They are often forgotten. Yet, they carry bold and valid dreams that rarely find the support they need to grow.Through the UNODC Youth Peace Champions (YPCs) initiative, supported by the Government of Denmark, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is partnering with these young people to #FrameTheFuture. What is unfolding is a transformation led by the youth themselves. With training, mentorship and sustained support, these young people are confronting the very challenges that surround them, while stepping into leadership within their communities.Ekeremor“DUH-paa-min.” *Timipa pronounced the word slowly, almost playfully, stretching each syllable as he tried to make sense of it. Curious and eager, the student of Community Secondary School in Ekeremor turned to Austin and asked what it meant.Austin, a Youth Peace Champion (YPC), smiled, clearly pleased by the curiosity in front of him. Alongside fellow YPCs, he had gathered over forty students for a sensitisation session on drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, cultism and crime. Taking his time, he explained the meaning of “dopamine”, describing it as the feeling people addicted to drugs and alcohol often chase. After this, Austin went further, sharing relatable examples of the harmful effects of drug use. “Thank you!” Timipa said and expressed determination to stay away from drugs.Before stepping into the school, Austin and his team had met with the community’s paramount ruler and elders, seeking their blessing and support. They also mobilised fellow youth, including National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and local NGOs, turning a simple sensitisation into a community-driven effort. “The experience and reception by the kids made me realise that what we do is worth it and our message must be continually spread.” - Austin Ayamasa“Haa, why una just come? Girls don carry belle finish now.”*Joel’s words, spoken in Pidgin, carried both frustration and truth: “Why are you only just coming? Many girls are already pregnant.” A student at Community Secondary School in Ayamasa.The Youth Peace Champions here understood this reality. After securing the endorsement of the Paramount Ruler and community leaders, they began their work with a school sensitisation programme in 2025.By February 2026, their efforts had grown into a community-wide movement - a road march involving students and NYSC members, followed by a two-day workshop. Beyond advocacy, they distributed sanitary pads and educational materials, combining awareness with practical support. Ikebiri 1In Ikebiri 1, the Youth Peace Champions noticed that many students simply did not have basic learning materials. So, they acted. Through local fundraising, they raised about ₦300,000 (approximately $222) to purchase exercise books, pens and other essentials. These were distributed to hundreds of schoolchildren across the community.What accompanied the distribution was just as important; sensitisation sessions addressing drug abuse, cultism and crime, ensuring that support met both immediate and long-term needs. Their activities also inspired others in their community, with some pledging to fundraise and renovate dilapidated schools in the community. EkoweIn Ekowe, where similar challenges persist, Beauty and her fellow YPCs decided to act. Through sensitisation sessions, they engaged about 30 children and teenagers on issues affecting their lives. Beauty extended this work to the Federal Polytechnic in Ekowe, where she spoke directly to 10 young women about staying in school and building skills for self-reliance.Her work did not end with one session. She continues to mentor these girls, creating a steady support system as they navigate complex social pressures.OtuanIn Otuan, the approach took a deeply personal turn. Tari, a Youth Peace Champion, knows the weight of teenage pregnancy firsthand. Once told directly and indirectly that her life had come to a halt, she chose to rewrite her own story.Today, she is doing the same for others. Through her initiative, Rising Stars of Otuan, Tari creates a safe, non-judgmental space for teenage mothers. About 10 of them meet monthly to talk, rebuild confidence and reshape their futures. A farmer herself, Tari goes on to further train these young women in farming and employs some of them on her farm, providing both skills and income. Alongside this, she and other YPCs continue sensitisation visits to schools like St. Nathaniel Primary School and Community Secondary School, ensuring prevention and support go hand in hand. Piracy, Youth and the Niger DeltaAcross the Niger Delta, broader structural challenges persist. Poverty, unemployment and limited infrastructure create conditions where criminal networks thrive.According to UNODC, organized crime in the region is driven by these vulnerabilities, compounded by environmental degradation from illegal oil activities. While incidents such as piracy have declined since 2021, the region remains high-risk, particularly for armed robbery and illegal fishing. Young people are often the primary targets for recruitment into these networks.More than sensitisationWhat is happening across these communities goes beyond awareness campaigns. It is youth-led change. Over 1,000 children and youth have been physically reached with key advocacy messages centred on community resilience and crime prevention.In places where many young people feel overlooked, the Youth Peace Champions are stepping forward, mobilising their peers, raising resources and building solutions from within. From Austin to Beauty, Tari and many others are young people equipped with skills in community engagement, social media, and creative communication. They are promoting peace, strengthening social cohesion and actively preventing crime. The Youth Peace Champions initiative is not only helping them expand their own horizons, but also opening pathways for others in their communities.They are not waiting for change. They are creating it. By building opportunities and resilience among youth, they are quietly closing the space for criminal networks to recruit young people and children in the Niger Delta.

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03 August 2026

From Adversity to Opportunity: Margaret’s Journey of Confidence and Independence

For much of her early life, Margaret believed the future held little promise for her. Living with a disability and losing both parents at a young age, she faced overwhelming challenges that left her feeling uncertain about her place in the world.Without parental support, Margaret was unable to continue her education and had to abandon her dreams of completing school. Life became increasingly difficult, and she often wondered how she would survive without the guidance and care of her parents.Everything began to change in 2021 when she joined the FGN/IFAD-supported Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP).Through the programme, a group of 25 persons with disabilities was formed in Margaret’s community to engage in cassava farming. For the first time, she found herself part of a supportive network of people who shared similar experiences and ambitions. With the programme’s support, members of the group gained access to farmland and essential farming inputs needed to begin cassava cultivation.Margaret rented 1.5 hectares of land and received fertilizer, pesticides, and 50 bundles of certified cassava stems—about 15,000 stems—to establish her farm. With determination and the support of the programme, she began her journey as a cassava farmer.Her first harvest marked a turning point. Margaret reinvested the income from her farm into purchasing inputs and hiring labour for the next farming season, gradually building her confidence and independence.But perhaps her greatest achievement was returning to school. Margaret supervises harvesting of cassava tubers in her farm. With the income she earned from cassava farming, Margaret re-enrolled in school and is now studying Mass Communication. She is also gaining practical experience as an intern and radio talk show host—something she once thought was impossible.Beyond farming and school, Margaret continues to pursue other talents. She is a skilled hairdresser and baker, earning additional income by plaiting hair and baking shortbread to support her growing ambitions.Today, Margaret uses her story to encourage others living with disabilities to believe in their potential.“People living with disability should not limit themselves from doing anything they want to do in life,” she says. “They should be confident and believe that life can become better. Keep an open mind and accept help from those who want to help.”With gratitude, she reflects on how far she has come.“IFAD and VCDP have put a smile on my face. They supported me to become who I wanted to be in life.”Margaret’s journey is a powerful reminder that when opportunity meets determination, even the most difficult beginnings can lead to a future filled with hope, dignity, and possibility.

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14 July 2026

Where the Water Meets Survival: UNFPA’s Response in Makoko

The wooden stilts creak as families step out onto narrow planks above the lagoon. Canoes glide between homes. Smoke rises from small cooking fires. Beneath the rhythm of daily life, however, lies a silent emergency—overcrowding, unsafe childbirth conditions, and rising risks of gender-based violence for the most vulnerable, particularly women and girls.Makoko, a historic waterside fishing community in Lagos, Nigeria, is often referred to as the “Venice of Africa” for its iconic stilt houses and canoe-based lifestyle. It is home to over 50,000 residents, with a community well organized into six villages—four floating villages (Adogbo, Migbewhe, Oko Agbon, Yanshiwhe) and two land-based ones (Apollo, Sogunro). Despite its cultural significance, Makoko has long been one of Lagos’s most disadvantaged settlements, grappling with inadequate housing, sanitation, and basic services. Over the years, the Lagos State Government has attempted to relocate residents on water to safer alternative fishing communities, but this was met with resistance by the community. Subsequently demolitions took place in 2005, 2012, and most recently in 2026 resulting in new displacements. UNFPA, as part of the UN Interagency Response Team (UNFPA, UNICEF, UNDP and UN Habitat) swiftly stepped in to promote and protect the rights and well-being of the displaced populations by addressing the immediate pressing concerns on health, dignity, and resilience for the residents. Engaging with Makoko youths, women and community leaders, a Gender Based Violence (GBV) Audit and Risk Assessment to inform its response was undertaken. It revealed heightened vulnerability of women and children to GBV and Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA) - exposure to sexual violence, exploitation, intimate partner violence, and harassment, particularly at night and in overcrowded or open spaces. Women and girls reported fear of assault while sleeping outdoors, using unsafe waterways, or accessing basic services such as water and sanitation. Economic disruption resulting from the demolition, increased dependency, negative coping mechanisms, and transactional sex risks. For adolescent girls, risks were compounded by disrupted education, limited access to menstrual hygiene materials, and the absence of safe spaces. Persons with disabilities and pregnant women were highlighted as particularly underserved, facing mobility barriers and exclusion from relief and protection services. The assessment also revealed the weak capacity of the health systems to respond to GBV, SEA and its consequences. Despite these observations, the assessment highlighted strong community resilience and willingness to engage in protection solutions including immediate shelter support, improved lighting, safe water access, community-based protection mechanisms and the presence of trained GBV responders.Building resilienceIn response, UNFPA collaborated with the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board and Health districts to strengthen the capacity of 24 Health workers across the 6 communities on Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP), GBV Case Management, Clinical Management of Rape (CMR), Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) and Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (PSEAH). An additional twenty (20) community volunteers were trained on GBV awareness and referral pathway. The training capacitated the health system and community in a sustainable way for resilience purposes. The training had an immediate impact with the community volunteers having already initiated GBV and SEA awareness creation activities and having so far reached 1,500 women and girls with information. Outreach to communities included distribution of dignity kits, referrals for the most vulnerable women and girls, provision of reproductive health kits to the health system. An increase in reported cases has been noted, with one case already referred to the courts. The response in Makoko continues to ensure the establishment of temporary safe spaces for women and girls, strengthening GBV and Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) service mapping and referral pathways, deploying mobile GBV and health services, integrating disability-inclusive approaches, and engaging community leaders in prevention and risk mitigation.For UNFPA, humanitarian response is not just about survival—it is about restoring dignity, agency, and future opportunities.

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20 February 2026

Private Sector Conference Ends with Strong Commitments to Market Driven Solutions for Nigeria’s Internally Displaced Communities

Securing Futures – Market Based Solutions for Internal Displacement in Nigeria, a private sector Conference convened by the United Nations in Nigeria and several strategic partners, has ended with strong commitments to advancing innovative, market‑based solutions for Nigeria’s Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and their communities across Nigeria. The two‑day event which brought together leaders from government, the private sector, development finance institutions, humanitarian and development agencies and civil society, was built on the progress and recommendations of the 2024 Africa Roundtable on Private Sector Solutions to Internal Displacement, which united partners from 12 countries to explore sustainable and scalable approaches beyond traditional aid models. This year’s conference, held in Lagos on 12 and13 February 2026, deepened that momentum by showcasing concrete pathways through which Nigeria’s private sector could contribute meaningfully to economic recovery, job creation and resilience in fragile and conflict‑affected areas.The Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, in his keynote address, emphasised that Nigeria’s economic future depended on ensuring that no region and no community would be left behind, adding that investing in displaced communities is an investment in our unity, our stability and our long-term prosperity. Shettima, represented by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government to work with all stakeholders to transform displacement from a condition of vulnerability into an opportunity for inclusion, productivity and renewed national cohesion. “I encourage the private sector to take practical and measurable steps: Expand investment into high potential regions affected by displacement. Integrate displaced persons and host communities into formal and informal value chains. Support skills development, apprenticeships and enterprise growth. Leverage technology and finance to unlock productivity and improve access to markets.” He explained.These actions, according to him, would not only generate returns but also strengthen the social and economic fabric of the nation. He assured that “Government will continue to provide policy clarity, regulatory support and security assurance. Where markets hesitate, we are prepared to work with partners to do risk investment through structured incentives, blended finance mechanisms and well-designed public private partnerships;” And added, “Our objective is clear. To create conditions where private capital can flow responsibly into underserved but high potential areas, with outcomes that are measurable, scalable and sustainable.”The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, stressed that the UN and governments alone could not manage the scale of displacement in Nigeria. “Across Nigeria, more than 3.7 million people live in internal displacement. Another 2.6 million Nigerians have returned home but still struggle to rebuild. Over 2.5 million displaced people live within host communities. This is not just a national challenge. It is part of a global crisis. It is a test of our shared humanity.” He explained.Fall explained that sustainable solutions in Nigeria require long‑term investments, not short‑term philanthropy, urging collaboration through concessional financing, de‑risking mechanisms and innovative financing models that can support IDP reintegration and resilience.“The United Nations stands with Nigeria because solutions for internally displaced persons are possible. Together with the Government and development partners, we work to ensure that women, youth and persons with disabilities are not left behind.”In panel discussions it was underscored how Nigeria’s dynamic private sector could unlock the economic potential of displaced populations by working with what already existed to create markets, revitalize local economies and expanding value chains, which would enable IDPs to build sustainable livelihoods.According to Habiba Suleiman, the Head of Strategic Partnerships, Tropical General Investments, (TGI), a co-sponsor of the event and a major company working in areas with high numbers of IDPs, "Our most effective models are those that are hyper-local and they have succeeded by deliberately weaving in existing social and economic realities, not bypassing them.”The conference’s high-level discussions led to practical, market‑driven solutions around ways to strengthen local value chains and gaps in supply chains being pinpointed. Innovative initiatives already being implemented in Nigeria’s displacement context were highlighted, helping stakeholders to spot models that can be scaled and adapted across different states and sectors. Government agencies, private sector partners, civil society organizations and development actors also gave commitments to invest in sustainable and inclusive private‑sector‑led solutions.The conference also highlighted actionable mechanisms and funding instruments that can drive accelerated implementation across priority sectors, from blended finance models and impact investment tools to enterprise incubation programs tailored for IDP‑led businesses.A major milestone of the conference was the launch of a new multi‑stakeholder coordination mechanism. This platform will sustain engagement beyond the event, foster partnerships, monitor progress and promote continuous alignment among key actors working to improve outcomes for displaced communities.Participants reaffirmed that private sector engagement is central to shaping a more peaceful, stable and prosperous Nigeria: one where displaced individuals and host communities can thrive through inclusive economic opportunities.

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30 August 2026

The Vital Role of Community Volunteers in Mine Action

At the margin of a risk education training for volunteers, UNMAS had the opportunity to interview one of their previously trained community volunteers named Babagana Mala. The conversation, which lasted one hour, shed light on the complex and vital role of community volunteers to keep their communities safe from the threat of explosive ordnances (EOs), and protect livelihoods through knowledge.UNMAS, leading the UN mine action response in Nigeria, including the delivery of explosive ordnance risk education (EORE), helps mitigate the risks posed by explosive ordnance to returnees, host community members and humanitarian and development actors in the three northeastern states of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (the BAY states).Security, access, health and nutrition are among the many challenges that people face and which civil society organizations try to provide. The increase in the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs)by non-state armed groups makes every trip a risk to one’s life, including to humanitarian and development workers. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees are particularly vulnerable, and among the 15 LGAs where people have returned, 13 recorded the most number of incidents from explosive ordnance in 2025.This is the case for Babagana Mala, a resident of Konduga and a community volunteer, who in June 2025 received training on risk education and awareness provided by UNMAS with the generous support of the Government of Japan.“We were trained on the consequences of unexploded ordnance, because our people are in danger ; we need to raise awareness.”His testimony is essential to understanding the importance of these community volunteers and the missions they are carrying. His own words, “I create awareness.”. In an eye-opening example, he explains how, after an incident involving a motorcycle driver, he was able to reach out to his community and share awareness messages about roadside IEDs, which the drivers then shared with their colleagues themselves.But the work of a community volunteer goes beyond the prevention and awareness messages of EORE programs ; it also involves the ability to support victim assistance activities by identifying victims of EOs, one of UNMAS’s core areas of work, as Babagana Mala explains in his testimony: “You learn how to refer people to the exact services they need—food, supplies, and medical assistance.”.In 2025, there were 211 (92 female, 119 male) community volunteers deployed across the three states that make up the country’s northeastern BAY region. Thanks to this network, 339,625 civilians — including 70,374 men (20,7%), 79,155 women (23,3%), 100,764 boys (29,7%), 89,342 girls (26,3%) — gained access to awareness messages and education on the risks of explosive ordnance in 2025. To conclude with the wise words of Babagana Mala : “Education is the backbone of everything.”.

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29 August 2026

University of Lagos, Nigeria, Wins 2026 WIPO IP Moot Court Competition

On 26 June, 2026, the second edition of the WIPO Intellectual Property (IP) Moot Court Competition concluded with a Grand Final between the University of Lagos, Nigeria, and Ewha Womans University, Republic of Korea, at WIPO headquarters in Geneva.The University of Lagos emerged as the winners after delivering a strong performance in legal advocacy and oral argument. Team members Israel Idara Ifiok and Kaosisochukwu Andrina Nkpolara demonstrated a clear understanding of IP law, confidently responding to questions from the panel of judges throughout the final round.The victory represents a significant milestone for both Nigeria and the African continent. Following the inaugural competition in 2025 where both the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and the University of Cape Town, South Africa, came among the top 12 teams, this year the University of Lagos secured the championship title, becoming the first African university to win the WIPO IP Moot Court Competition. Israel Idara Ifiok and Kaosisochukwu Andrina Nkpolara also became the first all-female team to win the competition.With the victory, the University of Lagos becomes the latest institution to have its name engraved on the WIPO IP Moot Court Championship Trophy, becoming part of the competition's growing legacy.The competition forms part of WIPO's Intellectual Property and Youth Empowerment Strategy (IP-YES!), which aims to equip young people with practical knowledge and skills in IP law. Building on the success of its inaugural edition in 2025, this year's competition attracted more than 200 applications from universities around the world. Forty-eight teams progressed to the virtual rounds, with only eight advancing to the final oral rounds in Geneva. The finalists represented Estonia, India, Nigeria, the Republic of Korea, Trinidad and Tobago, the United Kingdom, and the United States.Throughout the competition, participants argued a fictional cross-border intellectual property dispute involving patents, trademarks, trade secrets and the enforcement of IP rights. The courtroom-style format gave students practical experience in legal research, written advocacy, oral argument and responding to judicial questions, while strengthening their understanding of intellectual property law in a real-world context.Beyond the competition, participants also gained access to opportunities for continued professional development. As part of the awards, students received scholarships for advanced distance learning courses offered by the WIPO Academy, as well as mentorship opportunities through the International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI).The WIPO IP Moot Court Competition continues to prepare the next generation of intellectual property professionals by providing practical learning experiences and connecting students with the global IP community.

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29 August 2026

I thought about committing suicide: Scholastica’s journey to Hope through UN Women HIV Interventions.

For years, Scholastica carried a burden she felt she could not share with anyone. Born with HIV, she spent much of her childhood taking medication without understanding why. When she finally learned her status as a teenager, the news shattered her confidence and changed how she saw herself. Once outspoken and active in class, Scholastica withdrew into silence. She became convinced that she was different from everyone around her and feared being judged if people knew the truth. The stigma she felt, even within herself, left her isolated and alone."I became a silent person," she recalls. "Anytime I was in a group, I would become so quiet."As the years passed, the weight of secrecy and self-doubt became overwhelming. Struggling to accept her diagnosis and unable to share her fears, Scholastica reached a point where she felt hopeless."There was a time I almost committed suicide," she says. "Keeping everything to myself was killing me."Her turning point came when she joined a UN Women-supported peer-to-peer support group for adolescent girls and young women living with HIV. Through the programme's peer support toolkit, she met other young women facing similar challenges and, for the first time, realized she was not alone. The group became a safe space where she could speak openly, learn from others, and begin rebuilding the confidence she had lost. Through sessions on self-confidence, communication, mental health and treatment adherence, Scholastica started challenging the fear and stigma she had carried for years. One lesson stayed with her: HIV is not the end of life. "Being HIV-positive does not stop you from achieving anything," she says. "We can achieve anything in life, just like anyone else."As she connected with her peers, Scholastica began to see herself differently. She realized that the harshest judgments she faced often came from within. The programme helped her understand that living well with HIV means caring for both physical and mental health and letting go of the shame and loneliness that had defined so much of her adolescence.Slowly, the young woman who had retreated into silence found her voice again. She made new friends, participated in discussions, and rediscovered the confidence she thought she had lost forever."The confidence came back," she says. "The silence that became my friend went away, and the beautiful self I had before discovering my status came back."Today, Scholastica takes her medication consistently, prioritizes her well-being, and faces the future with renewed hope. Drawing from her own journey, she now encourages other young people living with HIV to reject stigma, believe in their potential, and never give up on themselves.Looking back, she believes the UN Women-supported programme came into her life at the right moment."The training helped me when I wanted to give up," she reflects. "I told myself, 'No, you don't have to do this. You are not the only one in this situation.' That was when everything started changing."For Scholastica, the programme did more than provide information. It helped her rediscover the confident young woman she thought she had lost and gave her the courage to embrace life again. Across Nigeria, countless other adolescent girls and young women living with HIV are experiencing similar transformations through UN Women's support, gaining the knowledge, confidence and peer connections they need to challenge stigma, embrace their worth and build brighter futures.

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28 July 2026

For Displaced Nigerians in Benue State, Cash Assistance is Saving Lives and Restoring Hope

A cash for protection programme by UNHCR, supported by the Nigerian Humanitarian Fund (NHF), is providing a critical lifeline to families displaced by violence in Benue State — giving them the freedom to meet their most urgent needs and restoring their safety and dignity.In Benue State, where repeated violence has displaced hundreds of thousands of people, families returning home face a stark reality: starting over with almost nothing. A cash for protection programme is providing life-saving assistance to some of the most vulnerable households — helping them meet their most urgent needs and restoring safety and dignity after displacement.Through its Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance programme, UNHCR, in partnership with the Government of Nigeria and humanitarian partners and supported by the Nigerian Humanitarian Fund (NHF), is providing direct financial assistance to vulnerable households in Makurdi and Guma Local Government Areas.For Stephen Mnguaor, a farmer living with a disability, that question — how to start over with almost nothing — is immediate and practical. When armed attacks forced him to flee Tse Iortim Village, he lost not only his home, but also his ability to earn. Now back in his community, even farming — his main source of income — has become difficult, often requiring him to hire labour he cannot afford.The targeted cash transfer from UNHCR is helping him begin again. With the support, Stephen plans to use part of the assistance to rebuild his home and provide a safe place for his family to live, small but critical steps toward stabilizing their futures.His story reflects a wider reality. Nigeria has approximately 3.8 million internally displaced people, with at least 500,000 in Benue State alone — one of the highest concentrations in the country. Many families are attempting to return, but without resources, recovery remains fragile and uncertain.Why cash mattersCash assistance is one of the fastest and most effective ways to protect and stabilize displaced families.Rather than receiving pre-selected items, families decide how best to use the support — whether to pay rent, buy food, access healthcare, or restart livelihoods. That flexibility is critical in a context where needs vary widely from one household to another. “When people are forced to flee, they lose control over almost everything,” says Arjun Jain, UNHCR Representative in Nigeria. “Cash gives some of that control back — quickly, and in ways no other assistance can.”Targeting those most at riskThe programme focuses on the most vulnerable, including people with disabilities, single parents, older persons, and female-headed households.Since April, UNHCR and partners have conducted vulnerability assessments across communities in Benue State. More than 10,000 households have been screened, leading to the identification of nearly 500 highly vulnerable households — representing over 3,000 individuals — eligible for support. Cash disbursements have already begun, with assessments continuing in additional communities. Many more will benefit in the coming months. Beyond immediate relief, the programme also helps connect displaced families to essential services. During the assessment process, hundreds of individuals who lacked national identification or access to banking were identified and referred to the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), enabling them to obtain the documentation needed to access financial services and other support.Reducing risks, strengthening safetyWithout resources, displaced families often face difficult and sometimes dangerous choices — including withdrawing children from school, engaging in exploitative labour, or resorting to unsafe coping strategies.By enabling families to meet their basic needs safely, cash assistance helps reduce these risks and creates space for more stable recovery.For Shinku Ukusuyol, 55, the support has been critical. She fled the same wave of violence that affected Stephen, losing her home and loved ones. In the displacement camp in Makurdi, meeting even basic needs was a daily struggle.Now back in Tse Iortim Village, she is rebuilding gradually. The cash support has allowed her to buy food and cover essential expenses — restoring a degree of stability after months of uncertainty.“The support has brought hope back into my life,” she says.More importantly, it has given her the confidence to stay and rebuild — rather than face continued displacement. For her children, it represents the possibility of growing up in a more stable environment. Part of a broader protection responseThe cash for protection programme is part of a wider NHF-funded effort to strengthen safety and support recovery for displaced populations in Benue State.Alongside financial assistance, UNHCR and partners are supporting displaced families, strengthening protection monitoring and human rights reporting, improving safety in vulnerable areas through solar street lighting, and helping to decongest overcrowded displacement sites.Together, these interventions are designed to move families beyond immediate survival and toward longer-term recovery.For communities like Tse Iortim, recovery remains fragile. But with targeted support — and the freedom to meet their own most urgent needs — families are taking meaningful steps toward rebuilding their lives in safety and dignity.

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25 July 2026

UN Calls for Greater Investment in People and Partnerships to Accelerate Sustainable Development in Africa

The United Nations in Nigeria has called for urgent action to mobilise financing, strengthen partnerships and invest in people as Africa works to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Speaking at the Africa Social Impact Summit 2026 in Lagos, Ms. Muriel Mafico, UNFPA Representative in Nigeria, delivered remarks on behalf of the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator a.i. in Nigeria, Ms Wafaa Saeed. “The wealth of a nation is not measured by what it extracts from the ground. It is measured by what it unlocks in its people”, She said, and highlighted the need for bold and people-centred investments to address growing development challenges and unlock Africa’s potential.Addressing government representatives, development partners, civil society organisations and private-sector leaders, Ms. Mafico noted that the Summit came at a critical moment for the continent and stressed that discussions on financing are ultimately about expanding opportunities for people and communities. She underscored the importance of ensuring that every child could learn, every young person could access meaningful work, every woman could realise her potential, and every community could build resilience against future shocks.The UN Representative pointed to mounting global challenges, including slower economic growth, rising debt levels, declining development assistance, climate-related shocks and ongoing conflicts. She cited recent findings showing that only 36 per cent of SDG targets are currently on track or making moderate progress, while official development assistance has declined significantly and the financing gap for developing countries remains substantial.Despite these challenges, she emphasised that Africa’s future remains firmly within its own hands. With less than five years remaining to achieve the 2030 Agenda, she called for greater urgency, solidarity and ambition in advancing sustainable development efforts.Focusing on Nigeria, Ms. Mafico described the country’s large youth population as one of its greatest development opportunities. She stressed that strategic investments in people could position Nigeria as a global hub for innovation, entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth, while failure to invest could deepen inequalities and limit opportunities for future generations.She further urged African countries to strengthen domestic solutions and leadership, noting that sustainable development must be driven by national ownership, innovation and collective responsibility. “No country can outsource its development. No nation can import resilience,” she said, emphasising the importance of building strong partnerships that complement national efforts.Calling for a transformation in development financing, Ms. Mafico emphasised the need to unlock private capital, strengthen domestic resource mobilisation, support entrepreneurship and innovation, invest in women and young people, and harness technology to promote inclusion and opportunity. She also stressed that development partnerships must remain focused on people and impact.Highlighting the United Nations’ work in Nigeria, she noted that the UN is partnering with government, civil society, the private sector and development partners to accelerate progress across key areas, including institutional strengthening, social protection, food systems transformation, renewable energy, digital innovation, education, and opportunities for women and youth.Reaffirming the United Nations’ commitment to leaving no one behind, Ms. Mafico called on stakeholders to translate commitments into action and partnerships into measurable results. She expressed confidence in Africa’s immense potential, describing the continent as rich in talent, ideas, entrepreneurship and energy, while underscoring the need to mobilise capital that matches its ambitions.She concluded by urging participants to ensure that the Summit is remembered not for the discussions held, but for the partnerships forged, investments unlocked and collective action taken to build a more prosperous and inclusive future for all.

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Press Release

04 June 2026

Statement attributed to the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria on safe schools and the recent abduction of school children and teachers

The UN Resident Coordinator is deeply saddened that these school children and their teachers are still being held by armed groups. Schools must remain safe havens for learning and not places of fear. Children should never be a target.These incidents underscore the urgent need to strengthen the protection of children, educators and learning spaces. He acknowledges the on-going efforts of the government and security agencies and calls on the authorities to do more to ensure the safe and swift return of all abducted school children and teachers, and that the perpetrators are brought to justice.Mr Malick Fall reaffirms the UN’s collective commitment to promoting safe, inclusive and violence-free learning environments, while ensuring the protection and upholding of children’s right to education in safety and dignity.He calls for full and diligent implementation of the Minimum Standards for Safe Schools, strengthened emergency response mechanisms, and an efficient data-driven approach to protecting schools and vulnerable children.The Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator met the National Safe Schools delegation, led by Commandant, Dr Samuel Umanah, in Abuja on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, to discuss the situation and express solidarity with the affected families, school authorities and communities at this distressing time.

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Press Release

23 January 2026

Op-Ed: Nigeria’s Humanitarian Reset Will Succeed Only If Local Leadership Takes Centre Stage

Nigeria is entering a pivotal moment in its humanitarian response journey.As one of eight transition countries in the global Humanitarian Reset, Nigeria faces a stark reality: humanitarian needs remain persistently high, while international funding continues to drastically shrink. This tension is forcing a necessary reckoning on how humanitarian assistance is delivered — and, more importantly, who leads it.Nowhere is the challenge more visible than in north-east Nigeria. In Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states alone, an estimated 5.9 million people will require humanitarian assistance in 2026. Yet available resources fall far short of meeting this demand. The 2026 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan seeks US$516 million, prioritising 2.5 million people in the most acute need of life-saving support — less than half of those who require humanitarian assistance.These figures point to a simple truth: business as usual is no longer viable. The future of humanitarian action in Nigeria must be owned, led and sustained by Nigerian institutions and organisations, with international partners playing a supportive and enabling role.This shift lies at the heart of the Humanitarian Reset — a collective commitment by global humanitarian actors to deliver faster, and more accountable assistance at a time when the system is overstretched and under-resourced. The Reset calls for a sharper focus on lifesaving priorities, more agile and context-specific delivery, stronger in-country leadership, deeper engagement with affected communities, and a renewed defense of humanitarian principles. At its core, it is both a reform agenda and a mindset shift: from control to collaboration, from competition to complementarity, and from caution to courage.For Nigeria, this transition must begin with government leadership.Federal and state authorities are closest to affected populations. They carry the constitutional responsibility to protect citizens and are best positioned to align humanitarian action with national priorities. A nationally led humanitarian model requires more than coordination; it demands increased domestic financing, and sustained investment in systems that help communities withstand future shocks. No humanitarian response can be durable if the government is not firmly in the driver’s seat.Equally central to this transition are national organisations. Nigerian civil society and community-based organisations bring deep contextual knowledge, social legitimacy and long-term presence that international actors cannot replicate. In many hard-to-reach areas, they are the only responders with consistent access. Experience shows that when local organisations are trusted, adequately resourced and meaningfully included in decision-making, humanitarian responses become more efficient, more accountable and more relevant to community needs.Localisation, therefore, is not a slogan or a concession. It is a practical and necessary pathway to sustaining impact in an era of declining external funding.Encouragingly, this shift is already underway. The Nigeria Humanitarian Fund, managed by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), has steadily increased the proportion of funding channelled through national non-governmental organisations. In 2025, national NGOs received a record 70 per cent of direct allocations. Once considered peripheral actors, these organisations have strengthened financial controls, improved compliance systems, expanded technical expertise and demonstrated strong risk management. Women-led organisations, in particular, are emerging as critical humanitarian actors, shaping priorities and amplifying community voices that are too often marginalised. These gains illustrate what is possible when investment in local capacity is deliberate.Yet localisation is about far more than funding flows.It requires a fundamental shift in how partnerships are conceived and managed. Risk management must evolve from exclusion to shared responsibility. Technical support must move beyond project supervision towards genuine knowledge transfer and institutional strengthening. Over time, international humanitarian actors should step back from direct implementation and focus more on advisory roles, advocacy and resource mobilisation in support of national partners.Local organisations, for their part, must be recognised as equal partners — not extensions of international agencies. They need predictable financing, better access to pooled funds and structured opportunities to influence humanitarian strategy.Importantly, local civil society must also be empowered as agents of change. Sustainable progress depends on advocacy — changing political priorities, challenging harmful narratives and defending the rights of people affected by conflict and disaster. Affected communities should never be viewed as passive victims. They are people with dignity, agency and rights, and local organisations are best placed to champion those rights.The transition of the humanitarian operation in Nigeria also demands stronger alignment between humanitarian and development efforts.The Humanitarian Reset creates space for a more coherent approach in which emergency action focuses on saving lives, while development frameworks — including national plans and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework — address the structural drivers of vulnerability. Insecurity, underdevelopment and climate risks require long term solutions. Investments in food systems, basic services, disaster risk reduction and anticipatory action are essential to reducing humanitarian caseloads over time. Without these investments, emergency needs will continue to outpace available resources, perpetuating the cycle of crisis response.As the 2026 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan is launched, the message is unmistakable.The era of internationally financed, internationally delivered humanitarian operations in Nigeria is drawing to a close. The next phase belongs to Nigeria itself. To the institutions that set policy, the state authorities that coordinate response, national organisations that know their communities best, and the citizens who have borne the greatest burden for far too long.For the United Nations and its partners, the role is clear: support this transition. Strengthen capacity where needed. Reinforce partnerships at all levels. Mobilise resources alongside government. And ensure that people affected by crises remain firmly at the centre of every decision.Ultimately, localisation is about dignity.It is about recognising that communities must lead the solutions to the challenges they face. Nigeria’s humanitarian future depends on embracing this shift fully and without hesitation. The opportunity is present. The responsibility is shared. And the time to act is now.

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Press Release

28 May 2024

We will stand behind you - UN assures, as States Action Plans for Durable Solutions in Northeast are launched.

Abuja, 28 May 2024. In furtherance of their commitment to ending internal displacement in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States, the Government of Nigeria and the United Nations have launched the States Action Plans on Durable Solutions to Internal Displacement in Nigeria.“We will stand behind you. Let me reiterate our commitment on behalf of the United Nations: We will keep supporting on the ground; We will help rally donors; We will chase missing partners; We will celebrate your successes,” said Robert Piper, United Nations Assistant Secretary General, and Special Adviser on Solutions to Internal Displacement, at the launch held at the Presidential Villa Abuja, Nigeria.The Action Plans, according to him, are anchored in international standards and the Kampala Convention; driven by real political leadership; and are geared to mobilize development investments.“The plans you launch today provide a model of how governments can take responsibility for ending displacement. The plans recognise that displaced people can choose between going back home, properly integrating where they are right now or relocating elsewhere in the country.” Piper explained. The Vice President of Nigeria, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, emphasised that “We must invest in sustainable development, education, and economic opportunities to build resilient communities. By doing so, we not only address the immediate needs of the displaced but also create a foundation for a more stable and prosperous future.”He noted that the launch of the state Action Plans was meant to craft solutions that would outlive the present generation, and offer future generations a place of hope, a home for all, and a land of opportunity where dreams could be pursued without worry.Shettima noted, “As we launch these State Action Plans, let us commit to collaborative efforts that transcend borders and political divides. Let us harness the strength of our partnerships, both local and international, to bring about lasting change. The task ahead is immense, but with determination, unity, and a clear vision, we can make a profound difference.” Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed commended the governments of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe for their actions to scale up solution pathways in their state action plans, noting that achieving durable solutions is a priority for both Nigeria and for the United Nations secretary general. “Finding durable solutions to internal displacement is central to achieving the sustainable development goals in Nigeria and beyond, and they must become an integral part of development plans in areas affected by forced displacement.” Said the Deputy Secretary-General.She emphasized that durable solutions required long term investments in infrastructure, education, health care, as well as in security and the enablers social contract with the people. Mohammed added that “Our joint efforts must offer the promise of inclusive governance, human dignity, and a world where we leave no one behind.”The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Richard Montgomery, who spoke on behalf of the informal North-East Ambassador Group, emphasised that the group shared a collective interest in government’s efforts to bring peace to the North-East.“We stand in support of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration. As regards the durable solutions to internal displacement in the North-east, Montgomery noted, “No one country has the answer. We must join hands to ensure sustainable solutions to internally displaced persons (IDPs) issues in Nigeria.”At the launch were the Governor of Borno State, H.E. Prof Babagana Zulum; Governor of Yobe State, H.E. Mai Mala Buni; Governor of Benue State, H.E. Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia; and Hon. Commissioner for Reconstruction Rehabilitation Reintegration & Human Service, Bello Hamman Diram, representing Adamawa State Governor, H.E. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. ### Note to EditorsThe publication of the United Nations Secretary General High Level Panel’s Report on Internal Displacement, and the accompanying Action Agenda on Internal Displacement created a pivotal moment in how durable solutions in situations of internal displacement are approached. Building on the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement, the renewed attention to durable solutions puts a significant emphasis towards government-led and -owned processes.In line with this recommendation, and following the visit of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to Borno in May 2022, the authorities in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe initiated a process to develop their own action plans to address internal displacement as part of overall and long term development of their state.Progress towards durable solutions requires an approach that steps away from a needs-based way of working towards an area-based approach. The activities, processes and budget elaborated on in the State Action Plans, ensure that attention is given to all communities affected by displacement – including internally displaced persons, returnees as well as members of the host communities. Addressing forced displacement in this way bears the promise for the State Action Plans to contribute to the overall development of the state and to leave no one behind.Through their State Action Plans, the authorities acknowledge the need to ensure that methodologies, processes, and activities which form part of the vision to achieve durable solutions need to be evaluated in a timely manner with an aim to amend and strengthen their approach to achieving solutions. As an integral part of the overall governance systemfor durable solutions, the people-centered approach described in the monitoring andevaluation chapters will significantly contribute to ensure displacement affected communities participate in the overall development of the state.All plans recognize the need to maintain humanitarian assistance where needed, work around preventing future displacement and progressing solutions where possible. Driving these plans forward and recognizing the longer-term systematic sustainability that is needed, ambitious budgets have been developed. While a significant amount of these budgets is reserved for access to housing –including elements related to secure tenure –they cater to a wider set of interventions such as economic development and access to services.For more information and media enquiries contact:Oluseyi Soremekun – National Information Officer, UN Information Centre (UNIC) | +234 803 303 0002 | soremekun@un.org

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Press Release

22 June 2023

UN honours Princess Adejoke Adefulire for leadership in promoting SDGs

Abuja: 22 June 2023. In recognition of her commitment and visionary leadership in promoting the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development in Nigeria, the United Nations in Nigeria has honoured the former Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs), H.E. Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire with ‘SDGs Champion’ award. At the award ceremony held at the UN House Abuja, on 20 June 2023, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commended the United Nations in Nigeria for rewarding performance and dedication. “I thank the UN and the orgnisers of this award for finding it imperative to reward performance and dedication. This will go a long way in instilling sense of duty and encourage more people in their services to the nation, to give their best“, said the First Lady, represented by the National Women Leader for the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Betta Edu. Highlighting the contribution of the awardee to the implementation of SDGs at the sub-national level, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Matthias Schmale noted, “Your firm belief that the Sustainable Development Goals are for everyone everywhere, is a constant reminder that Agenda 2030 is neither for just one part of the country, nor for just one group of people.” He underlined that the UN in Nigeria is ready to engage with the new government on how to accelerate achievement of the SDGs and the 2030 agenda. Th First Lady assured the United Nations in Nigeria that “We will remain partners in building a virile and prosperous Nigeria in our quest to renewing hope especially now that we are rebuilding.” On the awardee, Senator Tinubu emphasized that Princess Adefulire’s inclusive and dedicated approach to national assignment endeared her to the stakeholders and eventually brought out the best in her. In her acceptance speech, Princess Adefulire expressed her appreciation of the United Nations Country Team for the commitment and tremendous support towards the implementation of the SDGs in Nigeria. “Together, we have made significant progress in our collective desire to achieve the SDGs and leave no Nigeria behind.” She said, and disclosed that as of December 2022, her office had completed the long and meticulous process of institutionalizing the SDGs in Nigeria; while all the institutional frameworks required to support the effective implementation of the SDGs in Nigeria were also in place. “It is with a great sense of gratitude and honour that I accept this humbling and prestigious United Nations SDGs Champion Award. I accept it on behalf of my formidable team at OSSAP-SDGs and thousands of unsung heroes in Nigeria.” Princess Adejoke added. The award ceremony was attended by members of the UN Country Team, and representatives of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF); the Head of Service; Deputy Governor of Ogun State and the First Lady of Ogun State, H.E. Mrs Bamidele Abiodun.

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Press Release

19 March 2023

UN condemns killing of children and women in Zangon Kataf, Kaduna State

Abuja, 18 March 2023 - The United Nations is deeply disturbed by the recent spate of violence in some parts of the country. Earlier this week, several innocent women and children were killed in Zangon Kataf, Local Government Area of Kaduna State. What is alarming is the barbaric and senseless killings of young children including a young boy who was abducted and murdered in the most brutal manner in the LGA. This spate of violence comes soon after another series of violent incidents where numerous of people including children were killed in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue state. The UN strongly condemns these attacks, which have resulted in the deaths of dozens of people, including children, some of whom were toddlers, women, and men. We are also deeply concerned that people continued to be killed and injured in subsequent attacks. We urge groups involved in the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and refrain from attacking innocent civilians, especially women and children who have nothing to do with the conflict. We also call for a lasting solution to be found that will provide a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the conflict. The UN Resident Coordinator for Nigeria, Matthias Schmale, said, "these atrocities must not continue unchecked. The UN stands with the government and people of Nigeria in their efforts to bring an end to this senseless violence, bring to justice perpetrators and ensure that all citizens are protected and able to live in peace and security." “We call on all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution to this violence and to respect the sanctity of human life. The UN remains committed to supporting the government and people of Nigeria in their quest for a peaceful and prosperous nation”, he added.

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