Amidst the ongoing challenges plaguing Nigeria’s North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions, the Federal Government has raised an alarm over the displacement of a staggering 3.6 million individuals.
The revelation comes as the nation observes the 2023 World Humanitarian Day, a day designated by the United Nations to honor the relentless commitment of humanitarian workers across the globe.
During a significant event in Abuja, Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, emphasized the urgency of the situation.
He acknowledged the diverse factors fueling the humanitarian crises, including insurgency, banditry, farmer-herder conflicts, and the compounding effects of climate change.
UNHCR Operating Data underscored the gravity of the issue, revealing that as of June 2023, a staggering 3,578,966 internally displaced persons were documented in the North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions.
In the face of adversity, families, exhibiting both vulnerability and resilience, are navigating dire circumstances, grappling with urgent needs like sustenance, shelter, water, protection, and livelihoods.
However, Sani-Gwarzo also shed light on the unwavering commitment exhibited by the Federal Government and the broader humanitarian community.
Despite the challenges, they have intensified their efforts to provide meaningful support to those in need.
This commitment is a tribute to the unyielding resolve of aid workers who persistently deliver assistance under immensely challenging conditions, embodying this year’s World Humanitarian Day theme.
The backdrop of these crises has been marred by tragedy as well, as Sani-Gwarzo reported that since 2016, 37 aid workers have lost their lives, 24 have been wounded, and 34 have been kidnapped in the North-East.
This year alone has witnessed the abduction of five aid workers in the region, alongside similar incidents across the nation.
Matthias Schmale, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria, echoed the theme of this year’s World Humanitarian Day,
“#NoMatterWhat.” He underscored the dedication of countless individuals on the frontlines, working tirelessly to ensure that assistance reaches the most vulnerable members of society, irrespective of challenges or dangers.
As the nation grapples with these crises, the perseverance and unwavering commitment of aid workers serve as a beacon of hope, shining a light on the resolve to assist those in need, no matter the obstacles they face.
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