National Humanitarian Summit 2025 Unites Sectors for Lasting Impact

By Emmanuel Anabueze

Government leaders, humanitarian actors, private sector stakeholders, and civil society representatives gathered in Abuja for the National Humanitarian Summit 2025, a landmark event aimed at addressing Nigeria’s escalating humanitarian challenges.

Held under the theme “Strengthening Humanitarian Effort for a Resilient Nation,” the summit featured high-level participation from the National Assembly, federal ministries, security agencies, donor organizations, NGOs, and grassroots groups. The event served as a strategic platform for collaboration, innovation, and national resilience in the face of conflict, displacement, and socio-economic hardship.

In his opening remarks, Amb. Adeniran Michael Timothy, Director of Funmilayo Health Foundation Africa, emphasized:

“Nigeria stands at a critical humanitarian crossroads. This summit represents more than dialogue—it is a commitment to collaborative action that prioritizes human dignity, equity, and long-term impact.”

Key discussions addressed:

The plight of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and sustainable reintegration

Food insecurity and malnutrition in conflict zones

Protection of vulnerable groups, especially women and children

Education in emergencies

Strengthening community-based resilience

H.E. Hurriya Dauda Lawal, First Lady of Zamfara State, stressed the need to empower the girl child and eliminate gender-based violence, particularly in Northern Nigeria. The Police Force PRO called for stronger trust between citizens and law enforcement to build unity and peace.

Hon. Taiwo Oluga (Federal Commissioner, National Assembly Service Commission) highlighted the importance of integrating IDP camps into national planning frameworks.

The keynote speaker, Prof. Hillary Inyang, joined other dignitaries including H.E. Amb. Prof. Olufolake Abdulrazaq (First Lady of Kwara State) and Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda (Minister of Humanitarian Affairs), in calling for coordinated, people-centered solutions.

Private sector voices also played a key role, highlighting how businesses can support humanitarian efforts through logistics, funding, and innovation.

Recognitions were given to notable contributors such as H.E. Sanusi Turaki, Head of Finance at the Northwest Development Commission, and Dr. Alan Adeboye, African Head of Operations at Funmilayo Health Foundation Africa, for their impact on national development.

The summit concluded with a joint communiqué proposing the formation of a National Humanitarian Working Group, enhanced data sharing, policy reforms, and a multi-sector roadmap for sustained humanitarian engagement.

As Nigeria navigates ongoing crises, the National Humanitarian Summit 2025 reinforced a powerful truth: only unified, inclusive action can build a secure and dignified future for all.