Nigerian army reaffirms support for humanitarian operations in North-East
Nigerian army reaffirms support for humanitarian operations in North-East
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to supporting humanitarian operations and protecting civilians in conflict-affected communities across the North-East.
Shaibu made the reaffirmation on Friday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by delegates from the United Nations (UN).
He had received the Head of Office, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) in Nigeria, Ms Danielle Parry.
The COAS said safe and unhindered humanitarian access remained central to the Army’s strategy of consolidating operational gains, facilitating the return of displaced persons and promoting lasting peace in the region.
He described the collaboration between the Nigerian Army and UN humanitarian agencies as a strategic partnership that had strengthened humanitarian response and civilian protection.
Shaibu assured the delegation that the army would continue to provide security for humanitarian workers, relief materials and essential supplies, particularly along key operational corridors.
He also directed the Theatre Commander to reinforce security along vulnerable humanitarian supply routes, especially the Dikwa-Gamboru Ngala axis, where remnants of terrorist groups still posed threats.
He called for improved convoy escort arrangements, enhanced operational coordination and innovative force protection measures to sustain humanitarian activities.
The army chief urged UN OCHA to strengthen forward logistics planning through local warehousing and wider implementation of its Humanitarian Reset Initiative to ensure uninterrupted aid delivery despite funding challenges.
Earlier, Parry commended the Nigerian Army for facilitating humanitarian operations in the North-East.
She said nearly six million people still depended on humanitarian assistance, even as global funding for relief operations continued to decline.
Parry identified security challenges in Gwoza, Bama, Damboa, Dikwa and Monguno as major obstacles to humanitarian access and appealed for sustained military support.
She also requested increased assistance in clearing improvised explosive devices and unexploded ordnance from resettlement communities, enhanced patrols along critical supply routes and stronger security escorts for humanitarian convoys.
‘’Continued collaboration between the Nigerian Army and humanitarian organisations is essential to protecting vulnerable populations, delivering life-saving assistance and supporting long-term recovery and development in the North-East, ‘’ she said.