FG, UN Agencies, and Ambassadors Unite for $5 Billion Annual Commitment to Nigeria's Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation Trust Fund

In a groundbreaking humanitarian coordination meeting at the United Nations House in Abuja, Nigeria, key stakeholders including Federal Government officials, UN agencies, Development Partners, Ambassadors, and NGOs pledged to adopt a coordinated strategy for addressing humanitarian crises in the country.

Championed by Nigeria's Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, the meeting emphasized the importance of a smart and unified approach to humanitarian response. Notably, a commitment was made to raise $5 billion annually for the Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Trust Fund in Nigeria. This financial support will be sourced from the federal government, other countries, the private sector, donor agencies, and development partners.

Among the resolutions reached during the meeting were plans for the hosting of the African Humanitarian Summit, a follow-up to the 2016 World Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul. Quarterly humanitarian coordination meetings, joint field assessments by government and partners, and the creation of the Nigeria Humanitarian Dashboard were also highlighted.

Dr. Betta Edu conveyed President Bola Tinubu's gratitude to UN agencies and development partners for their substantial contributions to alleviating humanitarian challenges in Nigeria. She stressed the need for a coordinated approach, declaring an end to uncoordinated, unaccountable, and siloed responses to humanitarian crises.

"The government must take the lead to coordinate, ensuring alignment with government priorities and efficient use of resources. We signed a bond, and together as a team, we will deliver on it," affirmed Minister Edu.

United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria, Matthias Schmale, expressed full support for the government's efforts in addressing humanitarian challenges. He commended Dr. Edu for dynamic leadership, stating that UN agencies are committed to proper coordination, resource mobilization, and alignment with federal priorities.

Ambassadors from Malaysia, Norway, the United Arab Emirates, and others pledged strategic support for Nigeria in tackling humanitarian crises, emphasizing a collaborative approach to achieve sustainable solutions. The meeting marks a pivotal shift towards a more coordinated and impactful response to Nigeria's humanitarian challenges.