Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Friday inaugurated newly constructed houses in Tudun Biri village, Kaduna State, under the federal government’s resettlement scheme for persons affected by conflicts in the state.
The initiative follows a tragic incident in December 2023, when a military drone, during a routine counterterrorism operation, mistakenly struck the community while residents were celebrating Maulud, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad. The strike claimed over 100 lives, injured many others, and destroyed homes and properties.
President Bola Tinubu flagged off the reconstruction of Tudun Biri in July 2024. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Shettima said the project reflects the federal government’s commitment to justice, compassion, and national unity.
“The reconstruction of the community is an assurance of our collective belief that fairness is the glue that holds a nation together, and compassion is not a weakness of the state but its moral strength,” the vice-president said.
“It is a practical assurance that the Nigerian state does not abandon its citizens in times of adversity.”
Shettima added that the rehabilitation programme aims to deliver durable recovery and resettlement for communities affected by conflicts.
“Under this programme, similar resettlement and recovery projects are ongoing in Kaduna, Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Niger, Katsina, and Benue states,” he said.
“The project reflects a coordinated national response to internal displacement, prioritising durable solutions, community resilience, and the restoration of dignity to Nigerians affected by conflict and insecurity.”
The vice-president commended Governor Uba Sani for his administration’s partnership and inclusive governance approach, noting that the success of such initiatives depends on cooperation among the federal government, state authorities, host communities, and development partners.
In his remarks, Sani thanked President Tinubu for choosing Tudun Biri as the first beneficiary of the federal resettlement scheme. He said the project, which includes housing, a six-kilometre road, a primary healthcare centre, and a skills acquisition centre, represents an integrated development model.
“Peace is sustained not only through security measures but also through development, inclusion, and economic opportunity,” the governor said.
“The initiative has moved beyond temporary relief to comprehensive reconstruction, delivering modern homes supported by essential social infrastructure designed for safe and sustainable living.”
Sani added that the state government played a central role in the reconstruction, from the immediate aftermath of the tragedy to the completion of the projects, including the construction of a six-kilometre asphalt road linking Tudun Biri to the Kaduna International Airport corridor.
