North East Regional Initiative: A Lasting Legacy

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS T his photo book is a visual representation of how everyone worked together to deliver on OTI’s commitment to localization and the Journey to Self-Reliance. OTI’s principle of “One Team” is defined as the co-creation and joint ownership of a program’s vision and strategy, as well as responsibilities and risks, by USAID and the implementing partner. The foundation of a successful One Team approach is open and direct communication that honestly acknowledges and owns successes and shortcomings. Throughout the years, NERI employed the One Team approach with its counterparts, nurturing trust and credibility by engaging in an honest dialogue at each step of the activity cycle, including design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. We offer our sincerest gratitude to all those without whom NERI would not have been able to thrive for so many years: • First, we thank the federal government of Nigeria, security forces and the state governments of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe for their constant support and collaboration. We did our utmost to listen to their guidance and implement activities that responded to their vision for stabilization and development. • Our work would not have been possible without the U.S. Embassy and the USAID Mission in Abuja, which provided unwavering support and enthusiasm for NERI. We felt privileged to regularly brief the Deputy Chief of Mission, the USAID Mission Director and others on our interventions. Their trust and encouragement boosted our morale and challenged us to do better. • We thank our staff members, consultants, civil society organizations, partners and suppliers who delivered great work under pressure, despite perilous conditions. Their courage, dedication and enthusiasm for the Northeast and the alleviation of human suffering will always remain an inspiration. • We appreciate the Creative and USAID/OTI teams in Washington, D.C., which provided support, approvals and the behind-the-scenes work necessary to keep this program going. • Finally, we thank the women and men of Northeast Nigeria who continue to strive for a better life. This photo book is made possible thanks to the team of staff members (often using only smartphones) and photographers who immortalized NERI’s activities through exceptional images.

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