In Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, a significant policy shift has been announced regarding the nation’s Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Speaking at
The National President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria’s (NYCN) Solomon Adodo,has declared that IDPs will now be repositioned as productivity hubs, not just seen as victims.
The Council President made the declaration at its annual leadership retreat,in Abuja on Monday
“We are no longer referring to them as displaced persons,” Adodo stated.
“They will become centres of productivity. Every young Nigerian, regardless of their situation, has a role to play in nation-building.”
The announcement formed part of a three-day retreat aimed at repositioning the NYCN as a driver of national development. Held under the theme “Repositioning NYCN for National Impact and Youth-Driven Development,” the event brought together youth leaders, government officials, and civil society groups.
While IDPs have historically been perceived as victims of conflict requiring humanitarian support, Adodo’s declaration marks a policy rethink. According to him, IDP communities possess untapped economic potential that can be harnessed for national growth.
Backing for this policy came from Nigeria’s political establishment. A message from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, delivered by proxy, reinforced the government’s stance on youth inclusion.
“The Nigerian Senate stands firmly with the youth,” Akpabio said. “We are ready to walk with you—not behind or ahead, but shoulder to shoulder.”
Adodo, seen as a pragmatic leader, is pushing to rebrand the NYCN, once considered an outdated institution, into a dynamic force for youth empowerment. Recent initiatives have included digital literacy projects and peacebuilding workshops.
At the retreat, sessions focused on governance reform, accountability, and creating sustainable youth-led programmes. The strategy to redefine IDPs as centres of productivity is part of this broader effort to involve Nigeria’s 70 million-strong youth population in national development.
Whether this policy shift will translate into action on the ground remains uncertain. However, the message from Abuja is clear: Nigeria’s displaced are now being viewed not as passive recipients of aid, but as potential contributors to the country’s economy.
