By; FUNMI ADERINTO, Kaduna
The Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima on Friday, assured displaced Tudun Biri residents that their strength and resilience inspire the nation.
He expressed this during the official groundbreaking ceremony of the Resettlement Scheme for Persons Impacted by Conflict (RSPIC) in Tudun Biri, Igabi Local Government Area, a village mistakenly bombed by a military drone in Kaduna
He said that under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, the government is committed to strengthening security infrastructure and advancing peace.
In his keynote address, Vice President, Shettima emphasized the government’s commitment to the safety and dignity of every Nigerian.
“We are here to assure that the safety of each Nigerian shall be a priority. We cannot claim to have achieved this unless we restore dignity and security to those whose lives have been impacted by conflict,” he said.
Senator Shattima noted that the event marks the fulfillment of a solemn promise to prioritize the safety and dignity of every Nigerian.
He stated that true achievement can only be claimed once dignity and security are restored to those whose lives have been disrupted by conflict.
“Our journey to this point has been long and arduous. Today, we converge in this historic city to demonstrate our resolve to overcome adversity and build a future where each person.
” And community sees the other as a friend, and where peace and opportunity are the birth-right of every citizen,” Shettima said.
He emphasized that Kaduna State is the ideal launchpad for this intervention, given its diverse nature.
The Vice President highlighted the need to move beyond the fear that has previously held the nation hostage and to prevent incidents from escalating into prolonged disputes.
He said, “the RSPIC is designed not only to construct residences, roads, schools, and essential facilities for conflict victims but also to offer them a dignified environment to live and dream.
“This initiative is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s promise to ensure every Nigerian has a place of belonging and can believe in the nation once again,” he stressed.
Shettima acknowledged that past conflicts have not only torn communities apart, but also divided political leaders who should serve as unifying models.
He urged leaders to view humanitarian crisis as opportunities for unity, rather than division.
He commended Governor Uba Sani for his inspirational approach to fostering unity in Kaduna State, noting that this approach should serve as a template for other governors and the nation at large.
The Vice President highly commended Governor Uba Sani’s leadership style and urged other states to emulate Kaduna State’s inclusive approach to peace and unity amongst its citizens.
Shettima emphasized that the resettlement scheme symbolizes the collective will to heal as a nation and rebuild together.
“This history should inspire us to be different, and my optimism thrives on the assurance by our state governors to treat our humanitarian crisis as points of unity instead of divisions,” he stated.
He also highlighted the importance of peace and stability across the country, as conflicts in one region can disrupt the entire nation.
Shettima called for a unified response to national concerns, emphasizing the need for justice, equitable distribution of resources, and collaboration.
“Our work does not end here. This groundbreaking event is but the first step in a long journey towards restoration and empowerment.
“We must continue to provide support and opportunities for those affected, ensuring they have access to education, healthcare, and economic resources.
“As we lay the foundation of this intervention in our pilot state, we must remind one another to be front-row stakeholders in this aspiration to build peace, unity, and, significantly, to offer hope and opportunities to our people,” he added
Shettima called on security agencies and media organizations to come together and take ownership of the project, emphasizing that this intervention is a collective effort and a chance for permanent solutions.
Earlier, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Tudun Biri community.
He said, since the incident, the state government, through the Kaduna State Emergency Agency (KADSEMA), has provided relief materials, direct cash support, and medical and psycho-social assistance to victims and their families.
“The government is also constructing a 6km asphaltic road to link Tudun Biri to other communities and boost local agriculture and commerce.
“Additionally, a skills acquisition centre and a clinic are under construction to cater for the community’s needs.
Governor Sani appreciated the contributions from individuals and corporate organizations, noting that over N275 million has been disbursed to support victims.
Sani urged those who made pledges to redeem them, highlighting the leadership example set by President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Shettima.
He thanked the President for selecting Tudun Biri for the resettlement scheme’s groundbreaking ceremony, emphasizing the importance of the project, which is managed by NEMA and includes four resettlement communities in Igabi, Ikara, Giwa, and Kauru LGAs.
In her remark, Director-General of NEMA and Chairperson of the Project Implementation Unit, Zubaida Umar welcomed attendees and underscored the project’s mission to provide solace and support to conflict-impacted individuals and families in Kaduna State.
She thanked partners, stakeholders, and supporters for their commitment to this noble cause.
At the venue, Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, Governor Uba Sani, Jigawa State Governor, Malam Abubakar Umar Namadi Umar, Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe and other dignitaries were at Tudun Biri Village to perform the groundbreaking ceremony for the resettlement scheme for individuals affected by conflicts.
