FG seeks $500 million loan from World Bank to support IDPs and host communities

The Nigerian government is seeking financial help from the World Bank to assist internally displaced persons (IDPs) and their host communities. 

This project aims to improve living conditions and create economic opportunities, especially in Northern Nigeria, which has been heavily affected by displacement due to conflict, violence, and climate issues.

The project, expected to be approved on April 8, 2025, focuses on improving the lives of millions affected by internal displacement.

The Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning will be the borrower, while the National Commission for Refugee Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons and the North East Development Commission will implement the project.

According to the World Bank, the project will address specific needs in each state and community affected by displacement, considering factors like gender, age, and special needs.

It will also integrate the needs of people and the places where they settle, aiming to improve infrastructure, basic services, and livelihood opportunities.

Northern Nigeria, particularly Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, has the highest numbers of IDPs due to ongoing conflicts involving groups like Boko Haram, along with other issues like banditry and farmer-herder conflicts.

Borno State alone hosts nearly 1.7 million IDPs, impacting over 3.5 million people in the region.

These conflicts, coupled with climate shocks, have worsened poverty reduction efforts, making Nigeria one of the countries with the largest and fastest-growing IDP populations worldwide.

The World Bank’s intervention aims to alleviate these challenges by creating economic opportunities and improving access to basic services, ultimately aiming for a more stable and prosperous future for IDPs and their host communities in Nigeria.