Francis Origa, Registrar of the Institute for Humanitarian Studies and Social Development (IHSD), has revealed that a funding shortfall of N240 billion is jeopardising the delivery of humanitarian services across Nigeria, with millions of vulnerable citizens at risk.
Speaking in Abuja during the commemoration of the 2025 World Humanitarian Day, Origa called on disaster management agencies to step up their response and strengthen coordination on humanitarian issues.
Citing a recent United Nations Children’s Fund’s (UNICEF) report, Origa reiterated that the N240 billion funding gap threatens key services in health, nutrition, education, and access to water.
The register acknowledged the role of agencies like the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in responding to emergencies such as floods and fires, but said overall efforts remain inadequate, particularly in addressing the root causes of poverty, hunger and insecurity.
“The high number of young graduates without job opportunities poses a growing security risk. We need to shift from conventional security measures to a people-focused approach that addresses food, education, health and poverty,” Origa said.
He added that lack of funding has rendered many non-governmental organisations inactive and called on former leaders, business figures and philanthropists to establish foundations that support humanitarian causes.
“Bill Clinton has a foundation that supports humanitarian work, especially in Africa. We should see more of such initiatives from our own leaders. Foundations like those of T.Y Danjuma and Tony Elumelu are examples of how to empower young people and support local development,” he said.
He noted that while the federal government has pledged support—such as interest-free loans to smallholder farmers and cash transfers to vulnerable households—more action is required.
He stressed the need for coordinated efforts, consistent funding and stronger engagement from the public and private sectors to address the humanitarian needs in Nigeria.
World Humanitarian Day, observed annually on August 19, honours humanitarian workers killed or injured in the line of duty and those who continue to provide assistance during crises.
