Diffa (Niger) – On 29 April, the Governor of the Diffa region inaugurated the new offices of the Regional Directorate of the National Police (DRPN) and the Type 2 Integrated Health Centre (CSI) in Awaridi. These new infrastructures, funded by the Kingdom of Belgium and Japan respectively, have been built by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in partnership with the Government of Niger.

These new facilities respond to the growing needs of the region and play a crucial role in strengthening border governance and access to quality health care for the communities of Diffa and surrounding areas.

Located in south-eastern Niger, the Diffa region faces multiple challenges, including organized transnational crime, attacks by non-state armed groups, natural disasters, and an influx of internally displaced persons, refugees, and returnees. Deteriorating and inadequate infrastructure often hampers the delivery of basic services, exacerbating the vulnerability of host communities and mobile populations. In this context, interventions aimed at enhancing security, regular mobility, improving access to quality health services and promoting sustainable development are of paramount importance for the stability and well-being of the region's communities.

"I am honored to be here with you today for this important event, which marks the realization of our collective efforts for the safety, and health of our people. The infrastructure we inaugurate today is not just concrete and steel, but a tangible symbol of our commitment to progress and the well-being of our community," said Brigadier General Mahamadou Ibrahim Bagadoma, Governor of the Diffa region.

"Through a holistic approach, IOM is committed to helping Niger become a catalyst for sustainable change. Each initiative represents a useful piece in building a future where security, health and well-being are accessible to all, reflecting our commitment to addressing the complex challenges facing the Diffa region," said Nicoletta Giordano, IOM's Chief of Mission a.i in Niger.

The DRPN's new building was implemented through the "Strengthening Integrated Border Management for Increased Security in Niger" project, funded by the

Kingdom of Belgium, and Awaradi's Type 2 CSI was implemented through the "Strengthening Humanitarian Assistance and Accessibility to Health Services for Populations Affected by Crises in the Diffa and Tahoua Regions" project, funded by Japan.

For more information, please contact Aïssatou SY, Public Information Officer, tel: +227 8006 6531, aisy@iom.int.