Nigerian music artist and National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) Ambassador, OG Abbah (Mohammed Abubakar), has called on government authorities, humanitarian organisations, corporate bodies, and development partners to provide increased support for displaced families, vulnerable children, and communities affected by insecurity across Nigeria.
The appeal comes amid ongoing concerns over the impact of terrorism, banditry, kidnappings, and violent attacks that have forced thousands of Nigerians, particularly women and children, from their homes.
A native of Gwoza, Borno State, OG Abbah is himself a survivor of terrorism and displacement. As a child, he fled violence in his hometown and later lived with his family at the Durumi Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Abuja.
Despite those challenges, he went on to build a successful music career, sharing stages with some of Nigeria’s leading artists. Today, he is using his platform to advocate for vulnerable communities and displaced persons across the country.
Speaking during a humanitarian outreach programme held at the Durumi IDP Camp on May 27 to mark Children’s Day and the Sallah celebrations, OG Abbah stressed the importance of investing in young people through education, mentorship, and opportunity.
“I was once given an opportunity because someone believed in me. Today, I want to give that same opportunity to others,” he said.
The outreach brought together children, families, community leaders, humanitarian partners, and young talents for activities focused on education, entertainment, and community support.
As part of the event, participants in the IFON Creative “Voices from the Trenches” Talent Development Programme were given a platform to showcase their abilities, while educational materials were distributed through the IFON Classroom Library Project.
OG Abbah credited Mrs. Noni Okocha, Co-Founder of the I Am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative (IFON), for discovering and mentoring him during a talent hunt at the camp years ago.
He noted that many talented young people in displacement camps and underserved communities lack access to the education, mentorship, and support needed to realise their potential.
The artist also expressed concern over recent demolitions affecting parts of the Durumi community, which have left many families facing renewed displacement and uncertainty.
“Many of these families have already suffered displacement before. To see children and parents facing homelessness again is heartbreaking. We must not forget them,” he said.
He further urged authorities and stakeholders to strengthen efforts aimed at improving security, protecting vulnerable populations, and providing sustainable assistance to displaced communities.
According to him, priority areas should include emergency shelter, quality education, youth empowerment, mentorship programmes, livelihood support, and child protection initiatives.
OG Abbah emphasised that investing in vulnerable children and displaced communities is critical to building a safer and more prosperous future for Nigeria.
A survivor of displacement who rose from life in an IDP camp to national recognition, the artist said his mission remains rooted in giving back to the communities that shaped his journey.
“From Camp to Stage. Back to Community,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation of young Nigerians.
