Buhari, UN pledges to reduce humanitarian effect, as 35 aid providers killed

By Olatunji Omirin

President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated government’s commitment to reducing the effect of disasters, climate change, insurgency and challenges of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

He directed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development and its agencies to address urgent threats posed by explosive remnants in the North East region.

Buhari issued the directive on the occasion of World Humanitarian Day 2022 with theme “IT TAKES A VILLAGE” in Maiduguri on Thursday.

‘‘On this 2022 World Humanitarian Day and every other day, we stand and shall continue to stand in solidarity with humanitarian aid workers and recognize their tremendous service and sacrifice.

”We celebrate their tireless efforts to save lives, preserve human dignity, and alleviate suffering. Their selfless commitment and actions stand as an example to us all.

“I hope to see more of our leaders commitment to humanitarian services, through government at all levels in our efforts to ensure a better life for our people. 

On the fight against insurgency, Buhari reiterated his directive to security agencies to take the fight to the hideouts of the criminal elements and ensure ”they are completely eliminated.”

“I therefore implore you, not relent in your efforts to continue to take the fight to their hideout. And ensure they are completely eliminated. 

” I implore you to ensure adequate security for farmers in their farming activities; agricultural activities are most needed for settlement and development of rural areas. And this can only be achieved if the farmers are sure of their safery.”he charged.

The president led other guests at the event in Maiduguri to observe a minute of silence in memory of all who lost their lives in disasters and humanitarian workers who died in the line of duty.

The president also thanked the UNDP, the European Union, the government of USA, United Kingdom and Germany, as well as other foreign establishments for their support in complementing the Administration’s effort to stabilize the North East Region.

On her part, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Farouq citing figures from Aid Worker Security Database that since 2016, 35 aid workers lost their lives, 22 wounded and 28 kidnapped.

She added that since the beginning of this year, six aid workers were kidnapped in the country.

On the choice of Borno for this year’s event, the minister explained that it was meant to highlight the humanitarian situation and plight of IDPs in the region and to inspire the much needed change.

 “It truly takes a village to provide emergency relief, protection and assistance, to build peace and resilience of affected communities, to promote sustainable development and to lift people out of poverty, especially in complex and protracted humanitarian situation.

“Everyone gathered here today represents that community,” she said.

In his welcome address, Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno said “the state is enjoying relative peace and stability, thanks to the sacrifices of gallant soldiers, security agencies, local vigilantes and the MNJTF.’’

Also, United Nations Resident Coordinator, Matthias Schmale urged all actors to find more effective ways of working together between the humanitarian and the development villages.

 “I am encouraged by the opportunities to make a lasting difference in people’s lives, giving them hope for a better future. 

“There are areas void of violence and enjoying a degree of stability in the north-east where longer-term and more durable solutions are possible. These locations offer windows of opportunity to focus on activities that increase resilience and self-reliance for displaced people and host communities.

“Such opportunities would not be possible without the dedication and expertise of local actors. Our ‘village’ includes national and local partners with invaluable insight into the needs, preferences, and concerns of affected people, and their work has been key throughout all aspects of the humanitarian response.” Matthias said.

While in Borno,  Buhari inaugurated the Bulunkutu Teachers’ Quarters on Airport road and Molai 500 low-cost housing estate for IDPs constructed by the State Government with support of the Federal Government.