Nigerian Government Raises Alarm Over Rising Attacks on Humanitarian Workers

The Federal Government on Monday expressed serious concern over the increasing attacks on humanitarian workers across Nigeria, urging immediate action to protect those working in conflict zones.

Tijani Ahmed, the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, highlighted the issue during a press conference in Abuja to commemorate World Humanitarian Day 2024.

Ahmed revealed a troubling rise in violence against aid workers, with 49 incidents affecting 79 workers reported since 2020. These incidents include kidnappings, ambushes, and even fatalities, underscoring the mounting dangers faced by those providing humanitarian assistance.

He cited recent examples, such as the murder of an aid worker from Médecins du Monde, the injury of a UN pilot, and a violent attack on the United Nations Aid Facility in Borno State, which resulted in the deaths of at least 20 internally displaced persons.

Ahmed stressed that deliberately targeting humanitarian workers is a war crime under the Geneva Conventions, which all African nations have ratified. He called for collective efforts to protect these workers and to uphold the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence.

“In Nigeria, humanitarian workers have often been caught in the crossfire of non-state armed groups. Between 2020 and 2024, there have been 49 reported incidents impacting 79 humanitarian workers. This includes the tragic killing of an aid worker from Médecins du Monde, the injury of a UN pilot, and the attack on the United Nations Aid Facility in Borno State, which led to the deaths of at least 20 internally displaced persons and forced aid workers to flee for their lives.

“In 2024 alone, no fewer than 26 humanitarian workers in Nigeria have been kidnapped, ambushed, or assaulted while performing their duties,” Ahmed lamented.

He reiterated that under the Geneva Conventions, intentionally targeting humanitarian workers constitutes a war crime, violating the fundamental principles of humanity that guide global humanitarian efforts.

“These despicable acts not only put the lives of those who are dedicated to helping others at risk but also violate the core principles of humanity that are central to our global commitment to peace and justice,” he said.

The Federal Government’s urgent appeal comes as the global community observes World Humanitarian Day 2024, themed ‘ActForHumanity,’ to raise awareness about the escalating risks faced by aid workers.