According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), over 3.5 million people are internally displaced in Nigeria due to ongoing crises. The insurgency in the northeast region, particularly in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) states, has resulted in the deaths of 37 aid workers since 2016. Additionally, 24 workers have been wounded and 34 others kidnapped, as reported by the Aid Worker Security Database.
During the commemoration of World Humanitarian Day in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Nasir Sani Gwarzo, emphasized the significance of this year’s theme, #NoMatterWhat. He highlighted that humanitarian workers are dedicated to providing life-saving assistance regardless of a person’s identity or location.
Gwarzo stated, “Humanitarian workers are beacons of hope, braving dangerous conditions to deliver aid to those in need. They recognize that crises have no boundaries, and they overcome any barriers to fulfill their mission. Sadly, since 2016, the North East region of Nigeria has witnessed the tragic loss of 37 aid workers, with 24 wounded and 34 kidnapped. Incidents like these have also occurred in other parts of the country.”
He further emphasized that numerous individuals across Nigeria are currently grappling with humanitarian crises caused by a variety of factors, including insurgency, banditry, farmer-herder clashes, and the impacts of climate change. As of June 2023, the UNHCR Operating Data recorded a staggering 3,578,966 internally displaced persons in the North East, North West, and North Central regions of Nigeria. Families are navigating dire circumstances, facing acute needs for sustenance, shelter, water, protection, and livelihoods.
Gwarzo commended the efforts of both the Nigerian government and the entire humanitarian community in responding to these challenges, acknowledging the commitment of aid workers who tirelessly provide assistance despite difficult circumstances. He remarked, “Their altruism not only improves the lives of those they assist but also contributes to the stability and prosperity of our nation.”
The United Nations (UN) Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria, Mr. Matthias Schmale, paid tribute to the aid workers who courageously deliver life-saving aid to millions of people in north-east Nigeria and other parts of the country. Schmale witnessed firsthand the hardships faced by humanitarians in the north-east, highlighting their dedication and willingness to support those in need, even risking their own lives.
Since 2016, 37 aid workers have been killed in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, with 24 wounded and 34 kidnapped, as reported by the Aid Worker Security Database. Schmale recognized the courage, dedication, and perseverance of national and international aid workers on the front line, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to providing assistance, no matter the circumstances.
The UN and its partners aim to assist six million people in north-east Nigeria through the 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP), but urgent additional funding is required. Currently, the plan is only 29% funded, despite appealing for USD$1.3 billion. Schmale expressed concern about the deteriorating food security and nutrition situation in the BAY states, where approximately 4.3 million people are food insecure. The March 2023 Cadre Harmonisé assessment indicates that around two million children under the age of five are at risk of acute malnutrition.
To address these urgent needs, the United Nations and its partners launched a $396 million Lean Season Multi-Sector Plan as part of the HRP. Although significant progress has been made, including reaching approximately 2.1 million people with food assistance, limited funding poses a significant challenge. As of now, the prioritized plan is only 51% funded.
Despite the immense difficulties faced, aid workers continue to support affected communities. On World Humanitarian Day and every day, Schmale saluted the commitment and perseverance of humanitarian workers. He pledged that the humanitarian community will continue working together to save, protect, and improve lives, no matter what.
