Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on Nigerians and international partners to unite in tackling the country’s major challenges — poverty, migration, and climate change. Speaking during a meeting with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Shettima emphasized that collective action is the only way forward.

Quoting civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr., the Vice President said:

“We must either learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.”

Climate Change, Conflict & Migration — All Connected

Shettima pointed out how closely climate change, insecurity, and forced migration are linked — especially in the North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions. He stressed that improving the environment is key to solving the bigger picture of national stability and humanitarian challenges.

“You can’t separate the economy from the ecology in sub-Saharan Africa,” he noted.

A History of Partnership

The VP also praised IOM for its continued support in helping displaced persons and rebuilding livelihoods, especially recalling how the organisation worked with him during his time as Governor of Borno State.

He urged the group to expand their efforts to more crisis-prone areas, including the North-Central region, and called for inclusive and practical solutions that promote unity, gender equality, and environmental restoration.

IOM Commends Nigeria’s Efforts

On her part, Sharon Dimanche, Chief of Mission for IOM Nigeria, applauded the government’s commitment to managing migration responsibly and preparing for environmental disasters. She praised the recent State Action Plan on Floods and the Framework for Anticipatory Action as important steps forward.

“Every state in Nigeria is unique. It’s like one Africa in one country,” Dimanche said.

She reaffirmed IOM’s dedication to supporting Nigeria through data, shelter, climate resilience, and youth-focused initiatives. She also proposed a joint project with the VP’s office to attract more resources for long-term solutions.

A Shared Vision

Both Shettima and Dimanche agreed that migration should be seen as an opportunity, not a crisis — and that only through collaboration can lasting progress be achieved.

With unity, smart policies, and international support, Nigeria can turn its challenges into new beginnings.