The Institute for Humanitarian Studies and Social Development (IHSD) in Nigeria has urged African leaders and the international community to take urgent and concrete steps to address the growing crisis of insecurity, displacement, and violence across the continent.
Prince Origa, the Registrar and CEO of the Institute, raised the alarm at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday over the worsening humanitarian situation driven by violence, governance failures, and long-term neglect.
Origa stressed that the suffering in conflict-affected areas, particularly in Nigeria, demands a new kind of leadership, one that prioritises people’s needs and upholds human dignity over political interests.
Origa noted that the insecurity across Nigeria and Africa continues to drive displacement, hunger, and suffering.
According to him, “Today isn’t just a moment for reflection; it’s a call to take meaningful action,”.
The event also marked the launch of the nomination process for the 2025 Pan-African Humanitarian Leadership Award (TPAHLA), themed: “Honouring Heroes, Forging Forward.”
The award aims to recognise individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to supporting refugees, promoting peace, and advancing humanitarian efforts across Africa and the global African diaspora.
Origa explained that TPAHLA was established to spotlight often-overlooked humanitarians who work to promote peace, shelter displaced people, speak out against ethnic violence, and develop local responses to humanitarian challenges that are frequently ignored by mainstream platforms.
He added that TPAHLA recognises the efforts of researchers, policy advocates, community organisers, and spiritual leaders who help sustain hope for displaced populations.
The 2025 award ceremony is scheduled to take place in Abuja from October 15 to 19, with over 500 delegates expected from more than 30 African countries.
According to him, 100 individuals will be recognised for leadership in areas such as humanitarian governance, youth empowerment, gender equity, climate and environmental work, and the defence of human rights and justice.
Origa also shared that this year’s event will include the launch of the Pan-African Humanitarian Resource Centre, designed as a hub for humanitarian research, training, and innovation.
“Our goal is not only to give awards. We are working to build capacity, develop policies, and improve systems to ensure African efforts are part of the global humanitarian agenda,” he said.
He added that humanitarian work in Africa must move from temporary responses to steady efforts based on local needs, shaped by local voices, and supported by shared commitment.
Origa highlighted the violence in regions like Benue and Borno and questioned the reliance on military interventions in the absence of meaningful structural reforms.
“Troops alone cannot solve conflict. We need to follow the UN’s Human Security model one that puts people at the centre, addresses causes, and builds peace,” he added.
