The Federal Government has applauded the European Union (EU) and the French Development Agency (AFD) for the significant impact of the RESILAC2 intervention project, which has improved the lives of 32,000 people in Borno and Yobe states.
Across Nigeria, Cameroon and Chad, a total of 118,000 people are benefiting from the initiative.
The commendation came from Dr. Sampson Ebimaro, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, during the 2nd National Steering Committee meeting of RESILAC2 stakeholders held in Maiduguri.
Represented by Mr. Abdullahi Yakubu, Deputy Director and Head of Bilateral Economic Cooperation in the ministry, Dr. Ebimaro said stakeholders’ field visits offered firsthand insight into the programme’s achievements.
“The visit provided valuable insight into how the intervention is shaping lives, fostering economic opportunities and giving hope to conflict-affected communities,” he said.
He noted that the outcome of the visit also highlighted gaps requiring attention, as well as key components necessary for successful intervention and long-term sustainability.
“These tangible results underscore the effectiveness of collaboration among governments, donors, implementing partners and the enduring resilience of the people of the Lake Chad region,” he added.
The permanent secretary reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that support livelihood recovery, social cohesion and peacebuilding.
Also speaking, Mr. Thierno Samba Diallo, Country Director of Action Against Hunger (ACF) Nigeria, said RESILAC was designed as a regional initiative addressing the root causes of poverty and supporting governments in tackling these challenges.
Diallo explained that the five-year programme was co-designed by local communities, authorities, state governments and the federal ministry, which chairs its implementation. He emphasised that stakeholders’ field assessments were key to ensuring transparency and tracking progress.
He urged beneficiary countries to appreciate the EU and AFD for sustaining support despite funding withdrawals by other global donors.
The Borno State Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement, Mr. Isa Halidu, represented by Habu Yajiwa, Borno’s Focal Person on Social Investment Programme, called for deeper collaboration among stakeholders.
Halidu encouraged implementing partners to remain focused to ensure the programme achieves its objectives of strengthening resilience and improving livelihoods across communities in the Lake Chad basin.
RESILAC2 — formally known as Inclusive Economic and Social Recovery Around Lake Chad — provides vocational training, supports micro-enterprises and empowers women with income-generating skills in Borno and Yobe states.
