STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGEMENT: WAVES OF DISCUSSION

The FJDP Misereor project recently organized a crucial stakeholders engagement forum in Makurdi, focusing on addressing the pressing issues faced by the internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the state. The dire state of the IDPs, encompassing security concerns, living conditions, and more, cannot be overstated. Recognizing the importance of restoring their dignity and fostering peacebuilding efforts, FJDP, in collaboration with Misereor Germany, aims to provide much-needed support to these displaced populations.

During the forum, DPS Representative Julia from Misereor Germany engaged with implementing partners to gain insights into the urgent needs of the IDPs. The meeting took place at FJDP's Makurdi head office and brought together various stakeholders, including government agencies, humanitarian organizations, policymakers, and others.

The primary objective of the meeting was to gather essential information that could lead to lasting solutions for both the IDPs and the wider society. Topics of discussion included securing the IDP camps, addressing conflicts and the affected population, and finding ways to enable the IDPs to support themselves through livelihoods and income-generating activities.

A crucial aspect that emerged during the dialogue was the need for improved security measures in the camps and surrounding host communities. The rising insecurity has impacted interreligious cooperation, with negative stereotypes being perpetuated against Muslims and Fulani. To tackle these challenges, collaborative efforts between all stakeholders are vital.

The consequences of insecurity have given rise to extreme poverty and heightened vulnerabilities among the displaced population. In response to the situation, several suggestions were put forward during the meeting, including:

- Strengthening interagency collaboration for a more effective response.
- Implementing biometric documentation of livestock to address the complexities of property ownership.
- Activating public ranches to manage conflicts between herders and farmers.
- Planning the resettlement process in phases, focusing initially on safer communities near the border, where the selected areas can secure and prepare for the resettled population.
- Supporting security agents with the necessary logistics for internal security operations, including communication gadgets.
- Adopting a balanced combination of kinetic and non-kinetic responses to insecurity, holding political leaders accountable for their statements and actions that might contribute to tensions.

Julia, expressed her surprise and concern upon witnessing the situation at the IDP camps. She expressed her appreciation for the collective efforts of all stakeholders in finding ways to tackle the pressing issue of insecurity in the state.

In conclusion, the stakeholders' engagement forum provided a valuable platform for diverse actors to collaborate, strategize, and develop concrete solutions to the challenges faced by IDPs and the larger society. By fostering cooperation, accountability, and innovative interventions, FJDP, Misereor Germany, and all the stakeholders are committed to paving the way for a brighter and more secure future for the displaced populations in the state.