President Tinubu Signs Kampala Convention Bill, Strengthening Protection for Internally Displaced Persons in Nigeria

Abuja, March 10, 2026 – In a landmark development for humanitarian protection, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has signed the African Union Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons (Kampala Convention) Bill into law. The bill, sponsored by Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Ph.D, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, along with six colleagues, provides a comprehensive legal framework for the prevention, protection, and durable solutions for Nigeria’s internally displaced persons (IDPs).

With over 3.6 million Nigerians displaced by insurgency, banditry, and natural disasters, the law represents a decisive step toward safeguarding the rights, welfare, and dignity of vulnerable populations. It aligns Nigeria with continental standards, reinforcing the country’s commitment to international humanitarian principles while creating a coordinated national mechanism for addressing displacement challenges.

In a statement, Rt. Hon. Kalu commended the President for assenting to the legislation, describing it as a bold and timely action:
“This law strengthens Nigeria’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of internally displaced persons. It demonstrates a clear dedication to restoring hope and dignity to displaced Nigerians.”

The new legislation provides a framework for cooperation between government institutions, civil society, and development partners, ensuring that resources and support reach affected communities efficiently. Analysts note that effective implementation could improve access to housing, education, healthcare, and livelihood support for displaced populations, while also enhancing disaster preparedness and conflict mitigation efforts across the country.

Kalu emphasized the importance of collaborative action, urging all stakeholders to work together to ensure the law achieves its objectives:
“As implementation begins, we must stand with displaced communities and provide pathways toward recovery, security, and renewed hope.”

Experts highlight that the law has the potential to transform Nigeria’s humanitarian response, providing a model for coordinated and rights-based protection of IDPs in Africa. By institutionalizing protection measures, the Kampala Convention Bill could significantly reduce the vulnerability of displaced populations, improve social cohesion, and strengthen resilience in communities affected by conflict and environmental crises.

The signing of this bill underscores Nigeria’s commitment to human rights, social protection, and humanitarian leadership, offering millions of internally displaced Nigerians a renewed pathway toward dignity, safety, and sustainable recovery.