Labondo Local Integration Pilot Project

In the midst of the devastation caused by displacement, heartening stories of resilience and rejuvenation emerge from Nigeria’s Adamawa State. The Labondo Local Integration Pilot Project, led by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in collaboration with the Adamawa State government, shines as a beacon of hope, providing a renewed sense of purpose to many affected by the displacement crisis that has displaced over 3.6 million people in Northeast Nigeria.

The Labondo Local Integration project is an innovative, comprehensive approach that transcends the provision of immediate relief. It provides permanent housing, fosters sustainable livelihoods, and includes displaced individuals in government systems and services.

At the launch of the project on 27 June 2023, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State expressed satisfaction with the Labondo project’s quality and comprehensive offerings. “Our people deserve the best – IDPs or not,” Governor Fintiri observed. “I urge development partners to remain attuned to the needs of our communities. To the families benefiting, please ensure proper maintenance for lasting sustainability.”

The Labondo project is a testament of the power of innovation and collaboration. Funded by the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund, Central Emergency Response Fund, and UNHCR, the project has transformed the lives of many. And despite its transformative impacts, the Labondo project requires continued support and funding from development partners, the private sector as well as government investment to sustain its efforts.

The Labondo Local Integration pilot project is more than just a response to a crisis; it is a story of resilience, a tale of transformation, and a call to action. It illustrates that, amidst adversity, with the right support and opportunities, lives can be rebuilt, and a sense of home can be re-established. It is a reminder that even in the direst of circumstances, there is always hope for a fresh start and a brighter tomorrow.