NHRC Commemorates World Humanitarian Day, Honors Aid Workers for Sacrifices in Nigeria

Executive Secretary highlights protection of IDPs, refugees, and vulnerable groups

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By A1 News Desk | Abuja, Nigeria | August 19, 2025

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has marked World Humanitarian Day by lauding the dedication of aid workers who risk their lives to protect vulnerable populations. Dr. Tony Ojukwu, NHRC Executive Secretary, emphasized the critical role humanitarian responders play in providing assistance to IDPs, refugees, and marginalized groups across Nigeria.

Humanitarian Workers at the Frontline
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, Dr. Ojukwu described humanitarian workers as embodying compassion, empathy, and solidarity. “They provide lifesaving assistance to internally displaced persons, refugees, persons with disabilities, and marginalized groups, often at great personal risk,” he noted.

Despite their sacrifices, millions in Nigeria and globally still face limited access to essential services, including healthcare, shelter, education, and security. According to UNHCR data (2024), Nigeria hosts over 3.2 million IDPs, displaced by conflict, flooding, and banditry, with many at heightened risk of hunger, gender-based violence, and human rights violations.

NHRC Initiative for Data-Driven Humanitarian Response
Dr. Ojukwu revealed that the NHRC, in partnership with UNHCR, is documenting human rights conditions affecting displaced persons across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The initiative will produce a quarterly Humanitarian Dashboard to track evolving challenges, providing evidence-based insights to improve interventions.

Call for Coordinated Action
The NHRC boss urged governments, civil society, international partners, and individuals to strengthen coordination, prioritize the protection and dignity of vulnerable populations, and enhance support for humanitarian workers. He praised organizations such as the UN system, UNHCR, Red Cross, ICRC, and local civil society actors for their ongoing contributions.

“We honour the sacrifices of humanitarian workers and reaffirm our commitment to creating a more just, equitable, and compassionate world,” Dr. Ojukwu concluded.

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Aid Workers Provide Lifesaving Support Amid Risks
Highlighting the personal sacrifices of humanitarian responders in Nigeria.

NHRC Launches Dashboard to Track Displacement Challenges
Data-driven approach to monitor IDPs, refugees, and other vulnerable groups.

Call for Stronger Collaboration and Protection
Emphasis on coordinated action from government, civil society, and international partners.

Humanitarian workers safeguard vulnerable populations and uphold human rights in crisis zones. Strengthening their protection and using data to guide interventions ensures more effective responses to Nigeria’s displacement challenges.