The workshop, which took place at the Maradi Governorate, was presided over by Regional Governor, Inspector General of Police Issoufou Mamane. In his opening remarks, Governor Mamane welcomed participants and commended the organization of the event, highlighting its significance in addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in the region. He expressed gratitude to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and its partners for their support in protecting and assisting vulnerable populations.
Governor Mamane emphasized that protecting populations is a fundamental responsibility of the state, and the Nigerien government is committed to ensuring the safety of persons and property, as well as upholding human dignity and protecting vulnerable populations. He encouraged participants to actively engage in the two-day training, hoping that the discussions would strengthen the capacities of defense and security forces and foster collaboration among concerned institutions.
The workshop aims to enhance participants' understanding of protection, asylum rights, prevention of statelessness, and identification and orientation of persons with specific needs. UNHCR Maradi Office Chief, Mr. Alhassane Moussa, acknowledged the support of regional administrative and security authorities in assisting vulnerable populations. He noted that Maradi, due to its proximity to the Nigerian border, hosts various categories of displaced persons, including refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, and returnees.
Mr. Moussa emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration between humanitarian actors and security services to ensure better protection of populations. He reaffirmed the UNHCR's commitment to supporting Maradi regional authorities in their efforts to protect vulnerable populations. The workshop brings together various stakeholders to discuss ways to address the challenges faced by displaced persons and those at risk of statelessness in the region.
The event is expected to provide a platform for participants to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in protecting vulnerable populations. It is also anticipated that the workshop will contribute to the development of strategies to address the root causes of displacement and statelessness in the region. The Nigerien government, with the support of the UNHCR and other partners, is working to ensure the protection and dignity of displaced persons.
The workshop's outcomes are expected to inform future initiatives aimed at protecting displaced persons and those at risk of statelessness in Maradi and beyond. The event underscores the commitment of the Nigerien government and its partners to addressing the humanitarian and security challenges faced by vulnerable populations in the region. The two-day workshop will conclude with a set of recommendations and a renewed commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of displaced persons.
The workshop's success is expected to contribute to the enhancement of protection services for displaced persons and those at risk of statelessness in the region. Key stakeholders, including government officials, humanitarian actors, and security personnel, are participating in the event to share expertise and develop strategies for addressing the complex challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
Key points
- The workshop aims to strengthen the capacities of participants on protection, asylum rights, and prevention of statelessness.
- The event is being held in Maradi, a region that hosts various categories of displaced persons due to its proximity to the Nigerian border.
- The Nigerien government, with the support of the UNHCR and other partners, is working to ensure the protection and dignity of displaced persons.
