The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has pledged to eliminate Internally Displaced Persons camps across Nigeria within 18 months of assuming office if elected president in 2027.

Obi made the pledge on Tuesday in Jos, the Plateau State capital, where he also promised to prioritise security and national unity if given the mandate.

He said his administration would regard the continued existence of Nigerians in IDP camps after one year to 18 months in office as evidence of failure.

Obi said addressing insecurity would be a major priority, particularly in states such as Plateau and Benue, where communities have experienced repeated attacks and displacement.

He promised to create an environment where Nigerians could live safely without the fear of losing family members to violence.

The former Anambra State governor also called for greater national cohesion, expressing concern that ethnic and religious divisions had weakened unity among Nigerians.

He said his administration would work towards bringing citizens together irrespective of their ethnic or religious backgrounds.

Obi further referenced his visits to communities including Bokkos, Mangu and Barkin Ladi in Plateau State, saying the visits had exposed him to the challenges faced by residents affected by insecurity and displacement.

He also promised stronger measures to prevent kidnappers from abducting schoolchildren and taking them into forests.

Obi said the proposed administration would work with his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to improve security and protect Nigerians if elected in the 2027 presidential election.

He assured residents of Plateau State and other communities affected by insecurity that their safety would remain a priority under his proposed government.