The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Matthias Schmale, has called for sustained assistance to address the pressing humanitarian needs in northeastern Nigeria. This plea comes as the region continues to grapple with multifaceted challenges, demanding urgent attention and support.
Speaking at a press conference in New York, Mr. Schmale emphasized the crucial importance of international aid in addressing the alarming humanitarian situation in Nigeria. He underscored the need for concerted efforts to expedite the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals and combat violent extremism through collaborative interventions.
During his visit to Washington, DC, Mr. Schmale actively engaged in discussions with key stakeholders to garner support aimed at bridging the funding gap for humanitarian relief, development, and peacebuilding initiatives.
His engagements included meetings with prominent figures from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, civil society representatives, media organizations, the U.S. Institute of Peace, USAID, and the U.S. State Department. These interactions sought to foster strategic partnerships and resource mobilization for addressing the critical needs in Nigeria.
Highlighting the upcoming Humanitarian Response Plan for 2024, Mr. Schmale reiterated the commitment to prioritizing support for vulnerable girls and women while remaining cognizant of funding constraints. As he expressed the urgent need to ensure that malnourished children receive essential nourishment and protection, he stressed the imperative of judicious resource allocation and efficient utilization of anticipated funding.
Mr. Schmale’s advocacy signifies a pivotal call to action, compelling global solidarity and collaborative efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Nigeria. His impassioned plea resonates as a poignant reminder of the plight faced by vulnerable populations, urging proactive measures to safeguard their well-being and ensure sustainable development.
