By Philomina Attah
The Institute for Humanitarian Studies and Social Development (IHSD) has called for increased support to local communities, especially women, who play a vital role in ensuring Nigeria’s food security.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja to mark World Humanitarian Day 2025, Mr Francis Origa, Registrar of the Institute for IHSD, emphasised the importance of supporting rural communities.
He highlighted the crucial role these communities play in national food security, noting that they were often overlooked in spite of their significant contributions.
Origa noted that 80 per cent of the food consumed in Nigeria comes from rural areas, where women are often the most affected by humanitarian crises.
“Empowering these communities through humanitarian action will build resilience and ensure long-term development,” Origa said.
He said World Humanitarian Day, observed annually on August 19, was established by the United Nations to honour humanitarian workers who risk their lives providing aid.
“This year’s theme emphasises strengthening global solidarity and building local capacities.”
Origa recalled the 2003 bombing in Iraq, which killed 22 humanitarian workers including the UN’s top envoy, as a reminder of the risks involved in humanitarian service.
He also emphasised Immanuel Kant’s principle that “a violation of one person’s rights is a violation of everyone’s rights,” to highlight the need for collective action.
He stressed the urgency of supporting vulnerable groups, including women, children, and persons with disabilities, who were often hardest hit during crises.
As part of the day’s activities, Origa announced preparations for the Pan-African Humanitarian Leadership Award (TIPALA) 2025, which would celebrate individuals and organisations promoting global solidarity and strengthening grassroots capacities.
“Nominations are open, and the award ceremony will hold on Oct. 18, 2025, at the Abuja Continental Hotel,” he said.
Also speaking, Mr Olubunmi Fagbuyiro, President of the IHSD National Alumni Association, announced plans to establish a Pan-African Humanitarian Resource Center in Abuja.
“This centre will serve as a hub for humanitarian research, education, and values promotion,” he said, adding that the facility would include a library and e-library for researchers, students, and professionals.
Fagbuyiro noted that the centre would also enhance policy development, networking, and resource mobilisation, positioning Nigeria as a leader in humanitarian efforts across Africa.
In his remarks, Mr Abdulwahab Olufemi, Deputy Director of Operations, NYSC North Central Area Office (Nasarawa State), emphasised that humanitarian responsibility should be embraced collectively.
“While a few shows courage and empathy, we must encourage more Nigerians, especially youth, to embrace humanitarian service,” Olufemi said.
He suggested a partnership between IHSD and NYSC to help reorient young people at the grassroots, instilling values of empathy, service, and national unity.
“This approach will reshape mindsets and help build a more compassionate country,” he said. (NAN)
