The World Bank has approved $300 million for a new initiative designed to enhance access to essential services and economic opportunities for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and their host communities in northern Nigeria.
In a statement on Monday, the Washington-based lender said the Solutions for the Internally Displaced and Host Communities Project (SOLID) received approval on August 7, 2025. The project aims to shift displaced populations from dependence on humanitarian aid to sustainable self-reliance through an integrated development approach.
According to the World Bank, ongoing conflict and insecurity in the region have displaced more than 3.5 million people, placing immense pressure on infrastructure and intensifying competition for limited resources.
ALSO READ : Five Arraigned Over Deadly Owo Church Massacre
SOLID will build on earlier interventions, such as the Multi-Sectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP), which focused on emergency recovery. Key priorities will include:
- Developing climate-resilient infrastructure
- Promoting social cohesion between IDPs and host communities
- Supporting livelihood and economic empowerment programs
- Strengthening institutional capacity to manage the effects of displacement
“We are glad to support this initiative, which has tremendous potential to help Nigeria address the development challenges associated with protracted displacement in a sustainable way,” said Mathew Verghis, World Bank Country Director for Nigeria.
“The project’s integrated approach, aligned with the National IDP Policy and Nigeria’s long-term development vision, will help IDPs and host communities move from aid dependency to self-reliance, unlocking greater economic opportunities.”
The World Bank estimates that the SOLID project will benefit up to 7.4 million people, including 1.3 million IDPs. Implementation will follow a community-driven model, engaging all levels of government and leveraging partnerships with international development agencies.
If you want, I can also create a short, impactful headline + summary for quick social media posting. That could make it more shareable.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The National Concord Blog Newsletter for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now below!
