A group of people attending an event © CBM/Ugbaja/Valacci Ogli

Major BMZ-funded CBM project launched for internally displaced persons in Nigeria

CBM’s largest project in Nigeria aims to support internally displaced persons through improved food security, WASH services, and protective services.

CBM officially launched its largest project to date, co-financed by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) under the Transitional Development Assistance (TDA) funding stream. With a budget of Euro 4.8 million (USD 5.1 million), this project targeting northwestern Nigerian states marks the largest institutional support CBM has received to date. In partnership with our local implementing organisations, CBM aims to strengthen the resilience of conflict-affected host communities in Kebbi, Sokoto, and Katsina states by enhancing food security, improving access to inclusive WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) services, and providing protective services for vulnerable groups, particularly persons with disabilities.

The launch event in Abuja brought together representatives from various organisations. Among them was Dr. Karin Jansen, First Secretary and Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy in Nigeria. Key officials from the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction were also present. Representatives from the National Emergency Management Agency and the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) attended as well.

Emphasizing the timeliness of the project during his welcome speech, Omoi Samuel, CBM Nigeria’s Country Director, said:

“The BMZ TDA Project reflects our shared hope and ambition for a future where communities in the Northwest are empowered, ensuring that no one is left behind.”

The project addresses critical gaps in humanitarian support for northwestern Nigeria, a region often overlooked compared to northeastern conflict areas. This region faces severe challenges such as displacement, poverty, and access to basic services. A panel discussion at the event highlighted these issues and underscored the region's potential for sustainable development through inclusive and community-driven initiatives.

Key focus areas of the project

Bright Ekweremadu, the CBM regional director for West and Central Africa, and a sign language interpreter at the launch of the project. © CBM/Ugbaja/Valacci Ogli
Bright Ekweremadu, the CBM regional director for West and Central Africa, and a sign language interpreter at the launch of the project.

The project sets out ambitious but achievable goals to create lasting change:

  1. Improving Food Security and Livelihoods: By supporting income-generating activities, households in targeted communities will achieve better food security through increased and diversified income sources.
  2. Enhancing Health and Hygiene: Comprehensive and accessible WASH services, tailored to the needs of women and persons with disabilities, will improve overall community well-being.
  3. Providing Protective Services: Vulnerable groups, including women and girls who experience sexual, gender-based, or disability-related violence, will have access to coping and resilience mechanisms to improve psychosocial well-being.

Inclusive partnerships in action

CBM’s local implementing partners— Active Support for Rural People's Initiative (ASURPI), Hikima Community Mobilization and Development Initiative (HCOMDI), and Health And Development Support Programme (HANDS). Others are Albarka Health Spring Foundation (AHSF), and the FACT Foundation—played a central role in shaping the project. Speakers, including government representatives and civil society leaders, emphasised the importance of collaboration in driving change for marginalised communities.

Dr. Karin Jansen praised the project’s emphasis on inclusion, particularly its focus on persons with disabilities.

“This project reflects the shared commitment of Germany and Nigeria to ensuring that no one is left behind,” she stated.

This project aligns closely with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting inclusion, reducing inequalities, and enhancing access to essential services. Over its four-year span, it promises to create pathways for communities to rebuild stronger, more inclusive systems that address complex challenges.

Publications and resources

  • Inclusive Humanitarian Action (IHA) Annual Report 2024

    pdf, 6.0MB, Accessible

    This report summarises CBM’s ongoing dedication to providing equitable support and practising a more inclusive humanitarian response across the world. As we continue to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world, we remain committed in our mission to ensure that every person, regardless of their abilities, has access to the support and opportunities they need to thrive.

    Download