\n\nNigeria is preparing to assume a greater leadership role in coordinating humanitarian assistance across the country, marking a significant shift from years of heavy dependence on international donors and United Nations agencies.
The announcement was made during a joint transition workshop in Abuja, where government officials and UN representatives agreed on a gradual transfer of responsibilities for planning, coordinating, and financing humanitarian operations to Nigerian institutions.
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Bernard Doro explained that the transition is not a withdrawal of international assistance but rather a move toward strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to respond to its own humanitarian challenges. The United Nations and other development partners will continue to provide technical expertise and strategic support while Nigeria leads decision-making.
The country continues to face multiple humanitarian crises, including insecurity in the North-East, climate-related disasters, food shortages, displacement of millions of people, and public health emergencies. According to UN estimates, nearly 35 million Nigerians could face hunger this year, underscoring the need for stronger local institutions capable of delivering timely assistance.
Under the new arrangement, Nigerian authorities will take the lead in designing the country’s 2027 humanitarian response plan, while international organizations will provide advisory and financial support where necessary. The government also hopes to attract more funding from state governments, local businesses, and private-sector partners to reduce reliance on foreign aid.
Analysts believe the transition represents an important step toward national ownership of humanitarian programmes. However, they note that success will depend on sustained funding, transparency, strong coordination among agencies, and continued investment in emergency preparedness.
If effectively implemented, the initiative could improve the speed and efficiency of humanitarian responses while building a more resilient system capable of protecting vulnerable communities during future crises.
