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Act for Humanity: The Urgent Call of World Humanitarian Day 2024

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Act for Humanity: The Urgent Call of World Humanitarian Day 2024

By: Mohamed Malick Fall

Every year, World Humanitarian Day (WHD) serves as a poignant reminder of the critical importance of humanitarian efforts globally. This year, the theme #ActForHumanity emphasizes the collective responsibility we all share in protecting civilians and the humanitarian workers who serve them in conflicts and other crises.

As we observe this day on 19 August, it is crucial to reflect on the profound implications of ongoing conflicts, the flagrant violations of international humanitarian law (IHL), and the dire need for global leaders to take decisive action and say enough is enough.

Conflicts around the world, from Gaza to Sudan, continue to wreak havoc on civilians. Climate change is also increasing humanitarian needs.

In north-east Nigeria, the prolonged conflict has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, displacing millions, disrupting livelihoods and compounding already alarming levels of food insecurity and malnutrition.

In 2024 alone, 8.1 million people need humanitarian assistance in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe (BAY) states in north-east Nigeria. This includes 2.1 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) and 4.1 million people in host communities. Humanitarian partners together with the Government of Nigeria aim to reach 4.4 million of these people with lifesaving food, water, shelter and other emergency assistance.

In Borno State, Anna Monday, a mother of four, endures the harsh realities of displacement. Forced from her home, she now lives in a temporary learning centre at the reception centre in Pulka, a place designed for short-term accommodation but now a long-term refuge for many. Up to 30 women sleep in the shelter while the men sleep outside, highlighting the lack of adequate shelter.

Amina Buba, a mother of four, was displaced from her village in Adamawa State due to violent attacks by insurgent groups. Her home was burnt, forcing her family to flee with only the clothes on their backs. In the IDP camp, Amina struggles to find enough food and clean water for her children.

Fatima Mohammadu, a young girl from Yobe State, was separated from her family during a raid on her village. She was found by humanitarian workers and brought to an IDP camp. The trauma of separation and the loss of her loved ones have left deep emotional scars. In the camp, she faces challenges such as lack of access to education and inadequate nutrition.

Women, men, boys and girls across Nigeria are also affected due to crises linked to intercommunal violence, the climate crisis or general hardships. Women and children, often suffer the worst effects enduring widespread violations of their rights, including sexual violence.

A combination of insecurity, limited access to affected people, and inadequate funding and resources are complicating the delivery of essential services, leaving millions of people in humanitarian need.

In north-east Nigeria, attacks on civilians and humanitarian workers have become disturbingly common blatantly violating international humanitarian law.

On 29 June, for instance, numerous civilians died, and dozens were injured in multiple suicide attacks in Gwoza, Borno. A month later, many families lost their loved ones in yet another suicide attack in Konduga, also in Borno. These incidents underscore the persistent threat to civilian lives in conflict, and highlight the urgent need for enhanced protection measures, including stricter adherence to international norms and the need for greater accountability for violations.

Every day, humanitarian workers, from Government, non-governmental organizations, the United Nations (UN), civil society, Nigerian and international staff go out of their way to save lives and to bring people back to their feet. Host communities accommodate people who are internally displaced despite not having much to share because of their humanity.

World Humanitarian Day is more relevant than ever. The world has never seen greater humanitarian need. The number of people who are suffering because of conflict and other humanitarian crises is staggering. There has never been a more urgent need to protect civilians, and to recognize the critical role of humanitarian workers.

Global leaders and parties to conflict have a pivotal role to play in resolving conflicts and protecting humanitarian workers. They must not only condemn violations of international humanitarian law, but also take concrete steps to hold those responsible for violations accountable.

Thanks to funding from donors, humanitarians are reaching millions of people each year with lifesaving assistance. But they need robust support to continue their vital work in support of Government efforts. This includes financial resources, humanitarian access, and political goodwill.

Today, only a quarter of the resources needed to address urgent humanitarian needs globally and in north-east Nigeria has been forthcoming. Without these resources we will be unable to support Anna, Amina, and Fatima to survive and rebuild their lives.

Beyond humanitarian interventions, development-related activities are key as humanitarian needs also stem from a lack of basic services, a lack of livelihoods, and poor access to employment for young people.
The theme #ActForHumanity is not just a slogan; it is a call to action. It implores each one of us to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves, to speak out against injustices, and to work towards a world where humanitarian principles are respected, and lives are protected.

On this World Humanitarian Day, let us all pledge to act for humanity, for today and for the future.

I trust that you will stand with me in solidarity with people affected by conflict and disaster and the brave men and women who come to their aid. They should not be the target of violence but must be protected at all cost.

Mohamed Malick Fall is the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria.

Act for Humanity: The Urgent Call of World Humanitarian Day 2024

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Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio

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Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio

… Commissions 3 projects executed by Gubio LGA

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, on Tuesday, officially opened a newly constructed 48-classroom High Islamic College in Gubio Local Government Area of northern Borno.

The state-of-the-art institution is designed to offer a hybrid curriculum that integrates western education with traditional sangaya (Qur’anic) educational system.

Zulum had introduced an integrated policy framework which aims to provide students with a holistic education, grounding them in both religious principles and contemporary academic knowledge.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Zulum emphasised that the college is structured to ensure its graduates are not only deeply rooted in Islamic scholarship but are also fully equipped and qualified to pursue higher education in conventional institutions.

“Our focus has been on revitalising the system by preserving its rich tradition of Islamic scholarship while introducing modern subjects and vocational skills. We recognise the historic role of sangaya education in shaping moral values, discipline, and learning within our communities, while also equipping learners with essential skills in literacy, numeracy, science, technology, foundational English, and vocational training to enable them to function effectively and competitively in today’s society.”

“Through institutions operating under the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) approved curriculum, sangaya learners are now receiving a balanced education that integrates Islamic Studies with modern knowledge. These reforms have created clear pathways for graduates to obtain O-Level equivalent certification and, where they so desire, progress to higher institutions of learning to further develop their potential.”

The facility, in addition to the 48 classrooms, also features administrative blocks and a library. It is expected to serve hundreds of students from Gubio and surrounding communities, reducing the need for children to travel far from home for quality integrated education.

Zulum also commissioned the Gubio II Junior Day Secondary School, executed by Borno State Government. During a tour of the facilities, the Commissioner for Education, Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, explained that classrooms are intended to provide safe and inclusive learning spaces, with a particular focus on improving access for adolescent girls.

… Commissions 3 projects executed by Gubio LGA

Meanwhile, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has commissioned three projects executed by the Chairman of Gubio Local Government Area, Mali Bulama Mali Gubio.

The projects include Gubio Oil Mills, Zulum Ultramodern Clinic, and Mustapha Gubio Shopping Complex.

The occasions were attended by the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi; Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno; and Members of the House of Representatives, Usman Zanah and Engr Bukar Talba.

Other dignitaries include the Speaker Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, commissioners, special advisers and other senior government officials.

Zulum Inaugurates 48-Classroom High Islamic College in Gubio

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Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari

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Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari

By: Yahaya Wakili

Governor Mai Mala Buni CON of Yobe State has charged the newly appointed chairman of the Yusufari local government area to consider security of lives and property as the priority of the administration.

Buni gave the warning today while swearing in Alhaji Adamu Jibrin as the chairman of the council following the death of Alhaji Bah Abba Aji some few days ago.

According to Buni, the death of the chairman has created a vacuum that must be filled for continuity in governance, and this justifies the appointment of Alhaji Adamu Jibrin as the new chairman of the Yusufari local government council.

He urged him to be a good team player for a result-oriented administration that would give members of the council and people of the local government area a sense of belonging.

Governor Buni also urged the new chairman to conduct government business transparently to promote accountability and probity as well as to channel government resources into areas of need that have a direct impact on the lives of the people.

He appealed to the people of the local government area to support the new chairman for a smooth and successful administration that would meet the needs of the people.

Yobe: Prioritize security, Buni tells newly appointed Chairman of Yusufari

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Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase

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Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase

By: Michael Mike

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum has approved a substantial increase in rural allowances for health workers as part of efforts to address the shortage of medical personnel in remote communities across the state.

The governor announced the decision after inspecting several government projects in the northern axis of Borno. The inspection covered Government Secondary School, Gubio; two general hospitals; and ongoing housing developments in Gubio and Magumeri Local Government Areas.

Under the new arrangement, medical doctors posted to rural areas under the State Hospital Management Board will receive a rural allowance equivalent to their full basic salary, representing a 100 per cent increase. Nurses and midwives serving in similar locations will receive a 40 per cent increase in their rural allowances. The policy takes effect from January 1.

Governor Zulum said the move was informed by persistent manpower gaps in public health facilities, particularly in rural communities.

“We are facing serious challenges with human resources for health. Many of our hospitals do not have enough doctors and nurses,” he said. “Our findings show that a good number of medical professionals prefer working with international organisations because the pay is better. We must respond to this reality.”

According to the governor, the improved welfare package is expected to make rural postings more attractive and encourage more qualified personnel to work in general hospitals at the local government level.

He expressed optimism that the incentive would significantly improve healthcare delivery in villages and underserved areas, adding that health workers willing to take up rural postings should report to the State Hospital Management Board.

During his visit to Government Secondary School, Gubio, the governor also directed the immediate provision of essential facilities for the school’s laboratories and library to improve teaching and learning.

The inspection tour was attended by the Senator representing Borno North, Mohammed Tahir Monguno; members of the House of Representatives, Usman Zannah and Engr. Bukar Talba; and several commissioners and senior government officials, including those in charge of information, works and housing, local government affairs, and water resources.

The allowance increase forms part of the Zulum administration’s broader strategy to strengthen public service delivery and improve living conditions in rural communities across Borno State.

Zulum Boosts Rural Health Incentives With Major Allowance Increase

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