From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
The European Union has launched a Conflict Prevention, Crisis Response and Resilience Programme (CPCRR) worth €5.1 million to address insecurity and foster stability in Katsina and Zamfara States.
The 18-month programme, which will be implemented in eight local government areas of Katsina and two in Zamfara, is being executed in collaboration with the Centre for Democratic and Development (CDC), Mercy Corps, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Speaking at the launch held on Monday at Hillside Hotel, Katsina, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, H.E. Grantier Migrot, described the initiative as “a new era of hope, partnership, and collective action” aimed at empowering communities.
He explained that the project will target displaced persons, host communities, and other vulnerable groups through vocational training, climate-smart agriculture, and improved market access.
“The European Union is focused on dialogue, education, and empowerment. This programme is about investing in the people of Katsina and Zamfara — in their youth, women, persons with disabilities, and ultimately in their future,” Migrot said.
IOM Nigeria’s Chief of Mission, Dimanche Sharon, noted that the programme seeks to reach over 95,000 beneficiaries. He lamented that insecurity in the North-West has displaced more than 1.3 million people as of February 2025.
“Too many families have been displaced, too many farms abandoned, and too many lives destroyed by insecurity. Yet, the people of Katsina and Zamfara have shown resilience and determination to rebuild. This programme is about turning that resilience into lasting peace and stability,” Sharon added.
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda, who formally launched the initiative, commended the EU for its concern for peace in the region.
He also inaugurated a 21-member steering committee to oversee implementation of the programme, with members drawn from key ministries including education, agriculture, environment, security, information, and women affairs.
Radda pledged his administration’s support, including additional funding, to ensure smooth execution of the programme
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the State Development Board, Dr. Mustapha Shehu, praised Governor Radda’s initiative which, he said, attracted EU and partner interventions to the state.
He assured that the board would work diligently to achieve the programme’s objectives.
