UN team engages Yobe on innovative approach to address internal displacement

A United Nations (UN) delegation led by Mohamed Malick Fall, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, on Monday met with the Yobe State Government to discuss the innovative “Yobe Model” for achieving durable solutions to internal displacement.

The high-level delegation, which comprised three UN Assistant Secretaries-General and other senior officials, engaged in strategic talks with state officials on Yobe’s progress in tackling displacement, reintegration, and long-term recovery of conflict-affected communities.

The visiting Assistant Secretaries-General included Oguchi Daniels of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Raouf Mazou of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and Shoko Noda of the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs.

As part of their mission, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to Governor Mai Mala Buni, who was represented by Deputy Governor Idi Barde Gubana.

Fall commended the government for its exemplary leadership and commitment to the wellbeing of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

He particularly lauded Governor Buni’s administration for creating an enabling environment through sound policies, allocation of resources, and deployment of skilled manpower to ensure sustainable solutions.

“The Yobe Model stands out as a practical framework that integrates humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding approaches to rebuild lives and communities affected by insurgency.

“It demonstrates strong political will and genuine partnership between the government, the people, and development partners,” Fall stated.

In his response, the Governor Buni appreciated the UN’s continued partnership and support, emphasising that Yobe remains committed to transitioning from post-conflict recovery to long-term, people-centered development.

He noted that the administration’s initiatives—such as housing reconstruction, livelihood empowerment, education revitalisation, and infrastructure rehabilitation—are anchored on inclusivity and sustainability.

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The visit forms part of the UN’s ongoing engagement with subnational governments implementing innovative approaches to displacement management and resilience building.

The team visited and engaged directly with Internal Displacement Persons (IDP’s) community and some resettlement projects in Yobe to assess progress and strengthen collaboration towards durable peace and development in the region.