By Ibrahim Bello

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Kebbi says the challenges arising from unaddressed displacements, if not tackled, could lead to societal concerns in the country.

The Director of the agency in the state, Malam Nasir Karofi, made the statement while briefing newsmen on commemoration of 2025 World Refugee Day in Birnin Kebbi on Friday.

“The challenges arising from unaddressed displacement, if not gently but carefully tackled, could lead to some significant societal concerns.

“We risk seeing: A potential increase in the number of out-of-school children: When families are displaced and their routines are disrupted without proper support for education, children can easily miss out on learning opportunities.

“A rise in instances of street begging: Difficult circumstances, a lack of regular income, and reduced community support can, unfortunately, push vulnerable individuals into desperate situations.

“A heightened risk for recruitment by criminal elements: Young people who feel dislocated, without hope or direction, could sadly become more susceptible to being influenced by those involved in banditry or acting as informants, potentially perpetuating cycles of insecurity,” he said.

According to Karofi, the World Refugee Day is a gentle but firm reminder for the state and nation to understand the realities of displacement, even when they are not visibly organised in large camps.

He lamented that the unseen struggles of the displaced brothers and sisters gently challenged the shared values of compassion and national unity, saying that their resilience was truly inspiring.

“Therefore, on behalf of the National Orientation Agency, Kebbi State Directorate, I make an earnest appeal to all citizens, government tiers, and partners.

“Let us embrace our shared civic duties and commit to systematically identifying, supporting, and finding lasting solutions for displaced persons,” Karofi said.

He enjoined the state government, relevant agencies and community leaders to explore a comprehensive process to identify, register, and officially acknowledge all displaced persons within the state.

“This is whether they reside in informal settings or with host families. Establishing formal, efficiently run IDP centres, strategically beneficial, is not a negative step but a responsible and compassionate approach to managing internal displacement, helping ensure accountability and targeted assistance,” he urged.

The director commended Gov. Nasir Idris for his immediate visits and provision of support to communities affected by banditry incidents in the state.

On his part, the Special Adviser on Public Enlightenment and Orientation, Alhaji Ibrahim Abubakar-Jombali, assured NOA that the state government would work closely with the relevant agencies to address some of the challenges faced by the IDPs in the state.

“Our government is always ready and committed to protecting its people and promoting the welfare of the people wherever they live in the state.

“Gov. Nasir Idris has been making efforts both locally and nationally to ensure security is strengthened and people go back to their places and farms,” he said.

Edited by Muhammad Lawal