The International Organization for Migration (IOM), says it is ready to unveil a housing prototype for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), and vulnerable families in rural areas of North-East Nigeria, to enhance humanitarian impact and to promote Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration.
The Chief of Mission, IOM Nigeria, Mr. Laurent De Boeck, who disclosed this at a news conference ahead of the Housing Design Competition Awards Ceremony in Abuja, also explained that the escalating violence faced at the North East region has led to an unprecedented housing emergency.
The competition titled ‘Nigeria: Home After Crisis’, is organised by IOM through funding from the Nigerian Humanitarian Fund (NHF), to engage domestic and international design-communities in developing low-cost, incremental, and modular housing solutions for displaced people and vulnerable families in rural areas of the North-East.
At The event governor of Maiduguri Prof. Baba Gana Umar Zulum who spoke on behave of the Governors highlighted the significance of the competition in providing much-needed shelter for IDPs. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as private entities, to ensure the success of the Durable Solution Program.
The competition was launched to unveil the prototype IDP shelter as a part of the Durable Solution Program. The concept was championed by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa Stare who was represented by the commissioner of Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Reintegration Barr. Bello Hamman Diram.
The Nigerian Housing Competition aimed to address the housing needs of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who have been affected by various crises across the country. The objective was to design and develop a shelter that could provide a durable and sustainable solution to the housing challenges faced by the IDPs.
Following the opening remarks, a panel discussion was held, featuring experts from different sectors, including humanitarian aid, architecture, and urban planning. The panel shed light on the key issues faced by IDPs and discussed potential solutions to address these challenges.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the prototype IDP shelter, which was the winning design from the Nigerian Housing Competition. The shelter, developed by a team of architects, engineers, and designers, showcased innovative features that aimed to provide a dignified and secure living space for IDPs. The shelter’s design prioritized sustainability, affordability, and adaptability to various environmental conditions.
The event was graced by the presence of several distinguished personalities, including Gen Paul Tarfa Chairman NEDC, Mrs Jamila B Ibrahim Hon Minister of Youths, and various ambassadors, among other important figures. The Adamawa delegation included Hön. Abdullahi Adamu Prembe, Hön.Commissioner Housing, Mr Robert Ahidjo, Coordinator of the World Bank and Development Projects, Dr Aminu M Suleiman, ES ADSEMA, and Mr Dishon, Director of Reconstruction, Min. RRR and HS.
The prototype shelter received praise from the attendees, including Gen Paul Tarfa, who commended the efforts put into the design and development process. The shelter was also evaluated by Mrs Jamila B Ibrahim, the Honorable Minister of Youths, and received positive feedback from her.
In conclusion, the Nigerian Housing Competition, “Home After Crises,” successfully launched the prototype IDP shelter as a part of the Durable Solution Program. This initiative, championed by His Excellency Rt Honorable Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, signifies a significant step towards providing sustainable housing solutions for IDPs affected by crises in Nigeria.
Sahel Reporters
