Niger State, UNDP partner to Tackle Security, Humanitarian Challenges

Niger State Government in north central Nigeria, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), to focus on addressing security, agriculture, education and health challenges in the state.

This collaboration was formalized during a roundtable meeting, held at the Government House in Minna, bringing together key stakeholders from the state and the UNDP delegation.

During this gathering, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago highlighted the grave impact of bandit activities in the state, leading to a surge in Internally Displaced Persons, a substantial increase in out-of-school children, and hindrances in agricultural endeavors.

Recognizing the severity of the humanitarian crisis, Governor Bago emphasized the urgent need for assistance from global development partners, citing UNDP’s involvement as a potential source of relief for the people of Niger State.

Governor Bago stated: “Niger State needs help, and we are not hesitant to seek assistance from the world. The state grapples with the repercussions of criminal activities by bandits and extremists, affecting numerous Local Government Areas.”

“Despite efforts by the State government and security agencies, both kinetic and non-kinetic, to address the security challenges, the desired outcomes remain elusive.”

UNDP’s Resident Representative, Malam Mohammed Yahaya, underscored the importance of the roundtable meeting as an opportunity for the UNDP to gain firsthand insights into the state’s multifaceted challenges, enabling the development of effective solutions.

He assured that the UNDP is fully committed to supporting not only Nigeria as a whole but also Niger State in particular.

The Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers in Niger State and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, expressed his appreciation for the UNDP’s willingness to collaborate for the betterment of the state and its citizens.

In recognition of this partnership, the Etsu Nupe conferred upon the Resident Representative of UNDP the title of “Shugaban Raya Kasan Niger,” meaning “Vanguard of Peace in the Development of Niger State.”

The event also included a ceremonial exchange of gifts between the UNDP delegation and the Governor of Niger State.