By: Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
As Nigeria joins the global community to commemorate the 2024 World Humanitarian Day (WHD), the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on all levels of government to provide more resources for humanitarian efforts. This appeal is driven by the widespread human rights violations resulting from armed conflicts and natural disasters across the country.
In a statement signed by the Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Obinna Nwakonye, the NHRC expressed deep concern over the numerous human rights violations affecting vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, migrants, internally displaced persons, and asylum seekers. The Commission highlighted the insufficient humanitarian assistance available to these groups, leaving many without the necessary support to mitigate their suffering.
Dr. Tony Ojukwu, OFR, SAN, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, emphasized that individuals whose rights have been violated due to violence, armed conflicts, and natural disasters like flooding, erosion, and famine, deserve social protection to live normal lives.
“Beyond the insecurity in the North East due to Boko Haram insurgents, the North West from banditry, and the violence in other regions driven by separatist movements and farmers/herders clashes, Nigeria faces a growing humanitarian crisis,” said Dr. Ojukwu.
He called on the government to take deliberate actions to increase resources allocated to humanitarian issues, ensuring that those suffering from these crises receive the necessary support.
Reflecting on the 2024 WHD theme, “Act for Humanity,” Dr. Ojukwu urged political leaders and stakeholders to take decisive steps to address the humanitarian and human rights challenges facing the country, especially those affecting people in conflict zones.
The Executive Secretary also paid tribute to the countless humanitarian workers who have lost their lives or been injured while providing aid. “We must recognize the courage of aid workers who risk their lives to assist those in need during global crises,” he said.
He further assured that the NHRC remains committed to protecting and serving those in need, regardless of the dangers and hardships they face. Dr. Ojukwu also stressed the importance of raising awareness among state actors and law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers during their operations.
World Humanitarian Day brings together people from across the humanitarian ecosystem to advocate for the survival, well-being, and dignity of those affected by crises and to ensure the safety of those who work to assist them.
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