THE ActionAid Nigeria has called on the Federal, States and Local Governments of Nigeria to prioritise the safety and security of all humanitarian workers working in the frontlines in the conflicts areas.
The Action Aid gave the charge on Wednesday in a press statement signed by Nihinlola Ayanda , Communication Coordinator, and made available to Journalists in Lokoja.
The release frowns at the lackadaisical attitude of governments to the security and sefety of frontline workers urging governments at all levels to design a robust strategy that will uphold the sanctity of lives of all the humanitarian workers operating in the country.
While commending staff and all humanitarian workers across the world who have continued to risk their lives to provide lifesaving support , Ene Obi, the Country Director admonish them not to relent in their services to humanity.
According to her “ This year, the World Humanitarian Day comes at a difficult time when the world is dealing with one of the deadliest pandemics in the history of our human existence, COVID-19.
” The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 continues to rise, inducing hardship, mortalities, and economic crisis for many countries.
“The COVID-19 pandemic represents the single current biggest challenge to humanitarian workers and aid operations around the world.
” For humanitarians and organisations working in Nigeria, this also comes at a time when there is an increased targeting of aid workers. Just last month in North East Nigeria, five hhumanitarian aid workers who were earlier abducted were
murdered by Armed Opposition Groups, (AOGs).
” Since 2011, not less than 47 aid workers have been killed in Nigeria; today, like every other day, we remember our fallen heroes and we send our deepest condolences to their families and friends”. She lamented.
According to her, since the COVID-19 outbreak, there has been an increase in the number of reports of security incidents against health and aid workers, their assets and facilities, including threats and acts of violence often fueled by misinformation and fear.
The statement added that there have been a correlation between poor economic conditions and conflicts , called on government to ensure a relax economic opportunities for the people.
She called for collaborative synergy to appreciate all frontline workers who are responding to the coronavirus pandemic, described this year event as a sober reflection.
While condemning all forms of violence against humanitarian aid workers. urge all actors to respect and adhere to international laws and protocol that guides humanitarian operations .
