Nigeria to lead humanitarian response as UN support evolves, minister says

Nigerian Humanitarian Minister Bernard Doro clarified that this move does not signify a withdrawal of international support but rather a transition towards government-led coordination, which will continue to benefit from the technical expertise of the UN and its partners. UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Mohamed Fall echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the shift is designed to embrace a new model that capitalizes on increased government and private-sector funding to drive humanitarian initiatives.

The decision comes amid growing global pressure on donor funding and Nigeria's desire to bolster its capacity to address a range of crises, including conflict, displacement, food insecurity, flooding, climate shocks, and public health emergencies. The UN has highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that nearly 35 million Nigerians face the risk of hunger this year due to the strain on global aid budgets.

Minister Doro stated that his ministry will collaborate with federal and state authorities, aid organizations, and affected communities to coordinate nationwide humanitarian preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Nigeria's ambition is to take the lead in formulating its 2027 humanitarian plan, with essential technical assistance from OCHA and the broader UN system.