FAME Foundation Calls For Greater Protection, Inclusion, And Lasting Solutions For Refugees And Displaced Persons

As the world marks World Refugee Day 2026 on June 20, FAME Foundation joins the global community in recognizing the resilience and experiences of refugees and internally displaced persons who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, violence, insecurity, and humanitarian crises.

The day serves as a reminder that behind every displacement statistic are individuals and families whose lives have been disrupted by circumstances beyond their control and who deserve safety, protection, and opportunities to rebuild their futures.

In Nigeria, insecurity, insurgency, banditry, communal clashes, and other forms of violence continue to force thousands of people from their homes. Many displaced families face limited access to education, healthcare, livelihoods, protection services, and other basic necessities, making sustained support and long-term solutions necessary.

Speaking to the press, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Executive Director of FAME Foundation, called attention to the realities faced by displaced populations, particularly women, girls, and children.

“Since our inception, FAME Foundation has worked with and within internally displaced persons camps across Nigeria. Through our engagement with displaced communities over the years, we have witnessed firsthand the realities that many families face beyond the loss of their homes and livelihoods.

We have encountered cases of exploitation, sexual abuse, neglect, and other protection concerns affecting women and girls who are already dealing with the impact of displacement. We have seen young girls exploited, sexually abused, and deceived because of their vulnerable circumstances. In some instances, girls have been taken advantage of in exchange for something as little as a packet of noodles or one hundred naira.

These experiences reflect challenges that many displaced women and girls continue to face. Poverty, displacement, and weak protection systems often create conditions where vulnerable people become targets for exploitation. No girl should have to trade her dignity or safety for survival.”

Arabinrin Aderonke noted that while humanitarian assistance remains necessary, there is also a need for increased investment in protection, education, economic opportunities, and community-based support systems.

“Supporting displaced persons requires more than providing temporary relief. We need systems that protect women and children, expand access to education and livelihoods, and create opportunities that help displaced families rebuild their lives. At the same time, efforts must be made to address the factors that continue to drive displacement. Promoting peace, strengthening community resilience, and addressing insecurity are necessary steps toward reducing the number of people forced to leave their homes and communities.”

She also highlighted the role of sport and community engagement in supporting displaced children and young people.

“At FAME Foundation, we have seen how sport and community engagement can create safe spaces for children and young people affected by displacement. These platforms help build confidence, encourage social interaction, support emotional well-being, and provide opportunities for young people to reconnect with their communities and peers. For many children and young people living in displacement settings, these opportunities contribute to their development and sense of belonging.”

Through its interventions, FAME Foundation continues to work with vulnerable communities, including displaced populations, by promoting protection, education, empowerment, inclusion, and opportunities for women, girls, and young people.

Arabinrin Aderonke called for collaboration among governments, development partners, civil society organizations, humanitarian actors, and communities to ensure that displaced persons are not left behind.

“As we mark World Refugee Day, let us remember that behind every tent, every camp, and every displacement figure is a person whose future matters. Our responsibility extends beyond responding to emergencies. It includes ensuring that displaced persons are protected, included, and given opportunities to rebuild their lives and contribute to society.”