Abuja, Nov. 14, 2024 – President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Disaster Relief Fund to strengthen Nigeria’s humanitarian response system.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima disclosed this in Abuja on Thursday at the launch of the Humanitarian Supply Chain Management – Partnership for Localisation Project.
He said the fund would provide immediate assistance to disaster victims nationwide with a view to complementing the broader localisation framework.
“Inaction is simply not an option, and the cost of failing to address these crises at their roots will be devastating.
“Localisation is not merely about placing local actors at the centre of humanitarian efforts; it is the key to a more inclusive, resilient future for Nigeria.”
Shettima said the initiative, which aligned with the Nigeria Localisation Framework, would seek to empower local actors and leverage local resources to address the country’s growing humanitarian needs.
He said climate change, coupled with global economic crises, had deepened the nation’s complex humanitarian situation.
Mohammed Ahmed, the Special Assistant to the President on Special Duties, Emergency and Logistics (Office of The Vice-President), said there was the need for participatory and inclusive approach in emergency relief management.
“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.
“We are bringing together international and local organisations, along with academia, to develop standardised training in supply chain management.
“Over the years, more than 25,000 people have completed this training. It’s accessible to anyone, anywhere, anytime—and it’s free,” he said. (GBN)
