The Bauchi State government has inaugurated the Steering Committee for the Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons and Host Communities (SOLID) project.

The Deputy Governor, Auwal Jatau, said this at the inauguration of the project on Wednesday in Bauchi.

He said the project aimed at addressing displacement and improving the welfare of the affected populations.

According to Mr Jatau, the initiative represents a decisive step to incorporate IDPs and their host communities in the state’s development agenda.

Mr Jatau said the project underscored the government’s resolve to restore dignity, rebuild livelihoods, and provide sustainable solutions for citizens affected by conflict and climate-related displacement.

He said the state had witnessed significant displacement, placing pressure on critical sectors such as healthcare, education, water supply, agriculture, and stretching the resources of host communities.

He stated, “The World Bank-supported SOLID project is designed as a long-term development intervention rather than a temporary relief programme, with a focus on addressing root causes of vulnerability and promoting inclusive growth.

“The steering committee will serve as the highest decision-making body of the project in the state, ensuring effective coordination, policy alignment and accountability in implementation.”

Mr Jatau said the committee comprised top government officials, community leaders, representatives of the IDPs, and others.

He charged the committee to prioritise strategic alignment, inter-agency coordination, and transparency to achieve its goals and ensure sustainability.

Emphasising the importance of inclusivity, Mr Jatau urged the IDPs’ representatives to actively contribute to decision-making processes and hold stakeholders accountable to the needs of their communities.

The Project Coordinator, Abdulsamad Abubakar, said the project aims to enhance access to basic services such as infrastructure, education and healthcare as well as promote livelihood opportunities for beneficiaries.

He said the project would also strengthen the capacity of government institutions to respond effectively to displacement challenges. 

(NAN)