By Ukongikwen Adie
June 20 every year is World Refugee Day. On this day, the world focuses on the millions of people who flee their homes because of conflicts and other disasters to seek refuge in other climes.This commemoration sheds light on the immense human impact of conflicts, natural disasters and persecution on people’s lives.
Through powerful stories, events and campaigns, the World Refugees’ Day engenders empathy and fosters understanding for refugees the world over as captured in the theme of this year’s celebration: “Solidarity with Refugees.”
In his keynote address at this year’s World Refugees’ Day in Calabar, the governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, said the present administration is aware of the various challenges and hardships faced by the displaced population taking refuge in areas like Ogoja, Boki, Obanliku, Bakassi, Akamkpa and Calabar in Cross River State which has become a safe haven for 4,000 refugees fleeing conflict and persecution especially from neighbouring Cameroon.
While reiterating the unwavering commitment of the Cross River State government to supporting refugees, Gov. Otu called on the international community to step up efforts in addressing the root causes of such displacements (conflicts, persecution and human rights abuses) and commit to supporting refugees
through concrete actions.
Some of these actions, he mentioned, include: ensuring unfettered access to territories for the displaced population; improved funding to organizations like the UNHCR and other humanitarian organizations that aid refugees’ education and provide their basic needs; supporting refugees to own businesses which are crucial for economic integration and empowerment; improved access to basic and essential services for refugees in urban and rural areas and several other concrete actions.
“As a State, our commitment to supporting refugees is unwavering. We shall continue to partner with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)to ensure that Refugees in Cross River State receive the necessary care and support they need to thrive.
“We believe that by providing social services, healthcare, education and livelihood opportunities, we are not only helping Refugees to rebuild their lives but also enabling them to contribute positively to our community.”
In his address, the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) Country Representative, Mr. Arjun Jain, said: “I am delighted that we are marking this year’s celebration in Cross River state which is home to the largest refugee community in Nigeria. “This tells a positive story for the world to learn from.”
Mr. Jain thanked the government of Cross River State for all the initiatives that have been developed to target the health care, food security and general well-being of the refugees. He further reiterated the UNHCR’s commitment to helping refugees and people seeking asylum in any way possible.
The Honourable Federal Commissioner for Refugees, Hon. Aliyu Tijani, expressed gratitude to the government and all Cross Riverians for making Cross River State a sanctuary for those who have been displaced from their homes.
Hon.Tijani said the provision of farmlands, food, healthcare and other social amenities are all testaments to the benevolence and humanitarian disposition of Cross Riverians.
He assured the refugees that they are not alone and they will continue to receive the support and resources they need to thrive.
For her part, Rev Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu, wife of the Governor, in a goodwill message read by her representative, Dr. Inyang Asibong, celebrated the resilience of refugees and honoured their contributions to their host communities. She said her office is committed to help in mobilising resources to ensure that refugees do not only survive, but thrive.
In his remark, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, shared his experiences as a refugee in Cameroon during the Nigerian Civil War stating that the problems of a refugee are not just the physical displacement but the psychological and emotional trauma of discrimination and segregation.
Owan Enoh called for solidarity and inclusion of the refugees in our community because they are not just numbers, but individuals with dreams, aspirations and skills that can be of benefit to the communities they have become a part of.
Development Partners and donor agencies like CUSO International, CARITAS Nigeria, Care for Social Welfare International, MIDC, SEMA, UNFPA, Afem Foundation,Save the Children International, BAAF and MOF were represented in the celebration.
Highlights of the occasion were a visit to Refugees’ exhibition stand where jewelry of beadwork, clothes, snacks, artwork and food produce grown by the refugees were displayed for sale. There was also a beautiful display of cultural dances by the Department of Culture and Heritage.
Peoplesmind