The United Nations emphasizes that development and peacebuilding are crucial for resolving crises in Nigeria, rather than solely relying on humanitarian interventions.
During the launch of the 2025 Nigeria Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) at the UN House in Abuja, Mohammed Fall, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, expressed concern over declining global humanitarian funding. He stressed the need for efficiency in managing available resources to address Nigeria’s challenges.
Fall explained, “Following the floods in Maiduguri and other parts of Nigeria, we witnessed humanitarian and development partners, along with the private sector, working together to ease suffering.
“In 2024, the Humanitarian Response Plan for North-East Nigeria received only 57% funding, about $527 million out of the $927 million required. This funding was used to meet the critical needs of 4.4 million people out of the 8.1 million requiring life-saving assistance.”
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Humanitarian Challenges Highlight the Importance of Development and Peacebuilding
Mohammed Fall outlined that humanitarian challenges across Nigeria stem from diverse causes. These include food insecurity, displacement due to intercommunal clashes, and the impacts of climate change. He revealed, “In 2025, over 33 million Nigerians are projected to face food insecurity during the lean season. Alarming levels of acute malnutrition will threaten the lives of millions of children. These figures highlight the magnitude of the challenges we face.”
Fall stressed that humanitarian interventions alone cannot resolve Nigeria’s crises. He said, “Development and peacebuilding efforts, combined with humanitarian action, are essential to tackle the root causes of these needs.
“In Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States, the 2025 HNRP will provide life-saving assistance to 3.6 million of the 7.8 million people requiring urgent support. This plan requires financial resources of over $900 million. The HNRP prioritizes vulnerable groups such as women, children, and persons with disabilities.
“We must also acknowledge the reality of declining global funding for humanitarian efforts. It is essential to improve efficiency in humanitarian delivery by ensuring resources are maximized. This includes anticipatory action, acting before disasters occur, and directly funding local partners who deliver much of the assistance.
“Together, we must continue to make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected. I appeal to donors, the private sector, and the Nigerian Government to close funding gaps and take a more active role in supporting humanitarian efforts.
“The United Nations remains committed to collaborating with the Nigerian Government, partners, and communities to reduce suffering and address vulnerabilities.”
Federal Government Allocates N4 Billion for Conditional Cash Transfers
The Federal Government has approved an N4 billion budget for conditional cash transfers to support vulnerable households across Nigeria. This announcement was made by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwada, at the launch of the 2025 HNRP.
The initiative aims to address growing humanitarian challenges in Nigeria, focusing on displaced households and vulnerable groups. Yilwada stated, “The programme will support at least 10 million displaced households, with a priority on women, widows, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities.
“These cash transfers will run between February and April. They will target families affected by displacement, particularly in the North-east, helping them navigate their challenges.”
Additional Support for Farmers in Rural Areas
To enhance food production and self-sufficiency, the government has allocated an additional N2 billion for interest-free loans to farmers in rural areas. Yilwada explained, “These loans will range between ₦300,000 and ₦400,000 per household. This will provide farmers with resources and market access opportunities.”
The government’s dual approach of cash transfers and loans aims to uplift vulnerable families and strengthen rural farming communities.
Yilwada concluded, “We understand the pressing needs of women and children, particularly those displaced by crises. These efforts reflect the Federal Government’s commitment to alleviating their suffering.”
