On 25th July 2025, ASATTAHIR International Foundation (AIF) convened a high-level stakeholder engagement session focused on digitally mapping and updating the database of Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and settlements across Sokoto state.
The key stakeholders during the activity include; the Special Adviser IDPs and Resident Communities, representatives from SEMA, NEMA, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, and the Sokoto state chairman of Ward Development Committee to strengthen data-driven coordination in IDP response.
In his opening remarks, the Founder and Chairman, Board of Trustees of AIF, Aliyu Sidi Attahiru, thanked stakeholders for their unwavering commitment and emphasized AIF’s continued dedication to supporting initiatives that foster positive change.
He noted that the project represents a vital step toward ensuring that interventions are aligned with the real needs of displaced communities.
While welcoming participants, Prof. Yahaya Tanko Baba, Executive Secretary of AIF, outlined the Foundation’s vision of complementing government efforts in humanitarian response. He commended the support and consistent engagement of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), recognizing them as crucial partners in this collaborative endeavor. He concluded by wishing all participants a productive session.
In a goodwill message, the Special Adviser to the Governor on IDPs and Resident Communities Hon. Maryam Suleiman reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to initiatives that improve the wellbeing of vulnerable populations. She lauded AIF’s leadership in creating indigenous, tech-driven tools for improved humanitarian coordination.
Representatives of SEMA, NEMA, and the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning also commended AIF for initiating a much-needed digital framework for IDP response.
They expressed appreciation for the Foundation’s inclusive approach and pledged continued support to ensure accurate data gathering and targeted humanitarian interventions across the state.
The technical session was led by Rufus Yagkong, AIF’s Head of Programs & Research, who guided participants through the tools and approaches for the updated IDP mapping and database system.
Participants included representatives from SEMA, NEMA, the Office of the S.A on IDPs and Resident Communities, the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, and the State Chair of the Ward Development Committee (WDC). The group successfully reviewed and validated the updated mapping tools and centralized database developed by AIF.
Objectives of the activity were to; identify and verify all existing IDP camps (formal and informal) in Sokoto state through a structured mapping approach.
Establish a centralized and regularly updated database to support evidence-based decision-making.
Strengthen coordination among government agencies, local organizations, and international partners.
Improve targeting and efficiency of interventions by aligning data with actual needs on the ground.
Stakeholders expressed commitment to sustained collaboration and coordination for a more effective and timely humanitarian response across Sokoto State.
