President Bola Tinubu urged Nigerians to unite against common threats during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Resettlement Scheme for Persons Impacted by Conflicts in Tudun Biri, Kaduna.
The village had been accidentally bombed by a military drone in December last year.
Represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu expressed his concern about the long-standing fears and conflicts among Nigerians. He declared, “Today, we gather to say, ‘Enough is enough.'”
The President emphasized his administration’s commitment to improving Nigeria’s security and advancing peace. He highlighted that the resettlement scheme, which targets conflict-affected communities in Kaduna, Katsina, Benue, Niger, Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi, symbolizes the resilience of the survivors and an end to their pessimism.
“This policy is not just about bricks and mortar; it is a symbol of our collective will to heal as a nation,” said Tinubu. “It is a call to action and an appeal for solidarity against threats to our collective well-being.”
The President assured that the safety of every Nigerian is a priority, stating, “We cannot claim to have achieved this until we restore dignity and security to those whose lives have been upended by conflict.”
He also emphasized the importance of unity, saying, “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.”
The resettlement scheme aims to construct residences, roads, schools, and essential facilities for conflict victims, providing them with a dignified environment. “This is the promise of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a promise to make each Nigerian have a place of belonging and to learn to believe in Nigeria once again,” he added.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their support. He mentioned that over N275 million had been disbursed to victims of the drone attack, their families, and the community. “Since the unfortunate incident, the government has supported the victims with relief materials and ongoing medical and psycho-social support,” said Sani.
The Governor announced the construction of a 6km asphalt road to Tudun Biri Village, a Skill Acquisition Centre, and a Clinic to cater to the medical needs of the people. He also appealed to those who made pledges to redeem them.
Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency, Zubaida Umar, highlighted the broader implications of the project. “Let us remember that every brick laid, and every path paved is a symbol of our shared commitment to a future where peace, prosperity, and unity reign supreme,” she said, adding that the project would inspire similar initiatives in other states.
