The Nigerian government says it remains committed to improving humanitarian responses in line with its quest to make life better for citizens especially the vulnerable.
Vice President Kashim Shettima restated the pledge of the government on Thursday, at the launch of a programme of the government tagged ‘Humanitarian Supply Chain Management Partnership for Localization in Nigeria.’
He said the government’s commitment to human development necessitated the recent floating of a disaster relief fund to cater to people affected by disasters.
He said: “This project aligns with the broader development goals of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has prioritized human capital development. This administration is deeply committed to improving humanitarian responses through better health outcomes, expanded access to education, and more stable livelihoods for affected communities.
“Globally, there is a growing recognition of the importance of participatory governance, as highlighted at the recent Summit for the Future during the United Nations General Assembly. Localisation is not just about transferring resources; it is about listening to the voices of those most affected by crises. Their perspectives must guide our immediate responses, and we must also consider the impact of our decisions on future generations.
“This commitment to future generations is precisely why President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently approved the establishment of a Disaster Relief Fund, set up to provide immediate assistance to victims of disasters across Nigeria. This fund, along with the initiatives we are launching today, marks a significant step forward in building a more responsive and resilient humanitarian system. Partnerships are essential in achieving meaningful and lasting impact, as government action alone cannot address these complex challenges.”
Vice President Shettima acknowledged the fact that numerous challenges are occurring daily amidst limited resources.
“It is essential to recognize that we are not only facing an increasing number of disasters but also witnessing their escalating impacts on human and national development. From conflicts to natural disasters, the humanitarian crises in Nigeria, and indeed around the world are evolving rapidly. Inaction is simply not an option, and the cost of failing to address these crises at their roots will be devastating.
“The Partnership for Localization that we are launching today is a timely and appropriate response to these pressing challenges. By prioritizing local actors and strengthening local systems, we ensure that our response is not only faster but also more adaptive and sustainable. Local communities understand their challenges best, and by empowering them, we provide them with the tools to shape their own futures,” he said.
The Vice President, who was represented on the occasion by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Hassan-Hadeja, expressed optimism that the challenges would be resolved.
“The challenges before us are immense. But I am confident that with the right partnerships, policies, and the active engagement of local communities, we can turn the tide. As you proceed into the technical sessions today, I urge that your deliberations on this Partnership for Localisation be driven by one goal: delivering a more inclusive, efficient, and equitable humanitarian response for Nigeria,” he said.
The Acting Mission Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Alexis Taylor-Granados, commended the Nigerian government for its commitment to humanitarian services and localization.
She said the US government will continue to partner with President Tinubu’s administration to enhance human development.
“The United States government through the USAID works closely with the government of Nigeria and the private sector at all levels to achieve our shared humanitarian development goals.
“USAID is proud of its strong and close partnership with the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning as well as other ministries and government stakeholders. We recognize that lasting change in Nigeria requires partnership and cooperation.
“For this reason, USAID doubled its commitment to transferring leadership to local people and institutions who are best positioned to lead change within their own countries and communities,” she said.
Earlier, Special Assistant to the President on Special Duties, Emergency and Logistics (Office of The Vice President), Mohammed Ahmed, noted the importance of a collaborative approach to humanitarian aid.
“There is a need for a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. Government must be participatory and inclusive, ensuring that all voices from every segment of society are heard. Everyone is impacted by issues like climate change and conflict,” he explained.
Ahmed further noted that the project would support Nigeria’s localization framework, creating a platform to advance the agenda.
On her part, Fritz Institute’s Project Director, Mitsuko Mizushima, said the initiative is focused on local engagement, pointing out that this project “is designed to give local people a seat at the table.”
She pointed to the growing recognition of the importance of supply chain management and the need for capacity building.
Also, the Chief Adviser and Coordinator to the Government of Borno State on Sustainable Development, Partnerships, and Humanitarian Support, Dr. Mairo Mandara, said localisation means responding to the needs of the people.
She noted that in Borno State, they have defined what they need “and are taking a human-centered approach to humanitarian transition into development.
“Once we remain focused on our transition plans, we cannot go wrong,” Dr. Mandara emphasized.
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