Reps Urge Comprehensive Data Collection on Nigerians Affected By Natural Disasters
Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive data on internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Nigeria and in neighboring countries, especially those affected by natural disasters. His call for action came during a meeting with Tijani Ahmed, Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and IDPs, held in Abuja on Wednesday. Kalu underlined the necessity for detailed data to understand the extent of displacement, some of which is driven by climate-related events like flooding and erosion.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu highlighted the responsibility of the commission to broaden its approach to include victims of climate-induced displacement, not just those affected by conflict. He noted that the impact of climate change has reached a critical level, resulting in widespread displacement that requires government intervention. “The climate is at war with us,” Kalu said, stressing the importance of mitigation and adaptation strategies. He referenced recent displacement incidents, notably in Maiduguri, and indicated that similar issues are occurring nationwide.
Kalu further called for an increase in the yearly budget for the commission, currently estimated at around N1.6 billion, to better equip it for its growing mandate. He suggested that the commission take steps to inform the parliament and the public about the scale of displacement through documentary evidence and other forms of needs analysis, providing a clearer picture of the challenges faced by IDPs. The Deputy Speaker requested a comprehensive report from the commission within two weeks, to be used in upcoming budget discussions. A copy of this report, he added, would also be sent to the Budget Office of the Federation.
In response, Ahmed expressed appreciation for the Deputy Speaker’s attention to the issue and promised to prepare the requested data within the stipulated timeframe. He also appealed for additional funding to support the commission’s work. Ahmed underscored the commission’s commitment to addressing the plight of displaced Nigerians, both refugees and those internally displaced, with a focus on securing the resources necessary to improve their situation.
