ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The European Union has launched a €4.5 million conflict prevention and resilience programme in Sokoto State to tackle insecurity, climate-related challenges, displacement, and socioeconomic vulnerabilities affecting communities across the state.
The initiative, titled RECAP Resilience, Engagement and Conflict Prevention for At-Risk Populations’ Protection in Sokoto State was officially unveiled on Wednesday during an External Stakeholders Grant Opening Meeting held in Sokoto.
The 18-month project, funded by the EU and implemented by Action Against Hunger Nigeria in collaboration with International Alert and Save The Child Initiative, will cover 10 local government areas and is expected to benefit over 537,000 residents.
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Speaking at the event, Xenia Stoll said the programme demonstrates the EU’s commitment to peacebuilding, social cohesion, and human security in Northwest Nigeria.
Stoll stated, “The European Union values the relationship with Sokoto State. We support the governor and state authorities in their efforts to provide stability and prosperity for their population.
“Through the RECAP project we jointly commit to conflict prevention, social cohesion and human security in Northwest Nigeria. By addressing the root causes of violence such as exclusion, resource competition and economic marginalisation, this action strengthens local capacities for peace and contributes to long-term stability in Sokoto State.”
Representing the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, the Commissioner for Health, Abubakar Umar, described the intervention as timely and necessary, noting that the state is facing increasing challenges linked to insecurity, climate pressures, and resource-based conflicts.
“It is with great honour to address you today on this important occasion marking another milestone in our collective effort to promote peace, resilience and sustainability in Sokoto State,” he said.
Abubakar, who represented Deputy Governor Idris Mohammed Gobir, commended the European Union and development partners for their continued support to vulnerable communities.
“This initiative is both timely and essential. Sokoto State faces complex challenges including insecurity, climate pressures, livelihood vulnerabilities and resource-based conflicts. These realities require coordinated, community-driven and sustainable approaches,” he stated.
According to him, the project’s focus on dialogue, livelihoods, water governance, mental health, and psychosocial support reflects a strong understanding of the factors driving conflict and vulnerability.
“This effort will not only address immediate needs but also strengthen long-term resilience and social cohesion,” he added.
The commissioner further assured that the Sokoto State Government would provide institutional backing to ensure effective implementation and local ownership of the programme.
“The government of Sokoto State views this initiative as a strategic partnership aligned with our development priorities. We remain fully committed to supporting the implementation through our institutions, ensuring strong coordination, full participation and local ownership,” he said.
Also speaking, Thierno Samba Diallo stressed the importance of inclusive and community-driven peacebuilding initiatives.
“This project reflects our collective responsibility to move beyond crisis response and invest in sustainable peace,” Diallo said.
“In Sokoto State, conflict, climate stress, poverty and displacement intersect in ways that demand inclusive, locally owned solutions.
“Through RECAP, Action Against Hunger Nigeria, International Alert and STCI, with support from the European Union and in partnership with the Federal and Sokoto State Governments, we are committed to strengthening community resilience, restoring trust and empowering women and youth as central actors in peacebuilding and recovery,” he added.
The RECAP programme forms part of the EU’s broader partnership with Sokoto State, which includes political engagement, humanitarian support, collaboration with civil society groups, and partnerships with religious and traditional institutions aimed at promoting peace and development across the state.