Vice President Kashim Shettima
Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing humanitarian challenges across the country, emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration with both local and international partners.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Shettima said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to strengthen humanitarian response mechanisms, particularly in conflict-affected regions.
According to the Vice President, sustained engagement with organisations such as the ICRC remains critical to identifying and addressing gaps in humanitarian interventions. He stressed that improved coordination with development partners would enhance the efficiency and reach of relief efforts, especially for vulnerable populations impacted by insecurity, displacement, and natural disasters.
Shettima also welcomed the proposal to establish a national framework for humanitarian response, describing it as a strategic step toward improving the management of crises, particularly the plight of internally displaced persons and victims of armed conflict. He assured that the Federal Government is ready to collaborate closely with the ICRC to develop and operationalise such a mechanism.
Commending the ICRC for its longstanding contributions, the Vice President praised the organisation’s professionalism and dedication to promoting peace and alleviating human suffering in volatile regions. He further noted that Nigeria’s security forces would continue to operate in line with international humanitarian standards and best practices.
Earlier, the head of the ICRC delegation, Doris El Doueihy, lauded Nigeria for domesticating the Kampala Convention, describing the country as a leading example in humanitarian governance across Africa. She highlighted the organisation’s ongoing partnership with Nigeria in areas such as healthcare delivery, water access, and capacity-building for security personnel.
El Doueihy noted that the visit underscored the strong and evolving relationship between Nigeria and the ICRC, adding that the organisation remains committed to supporting humanitarian efforts across conflict zones in the country.
Also present at the meeting was the President of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Prince Oluyemisi Adetayo Adeaga, alongside other key stakeholders. The engagement reflects renewed momentum toward strengthening Nigeria’s humanitarian architecture amid ongoing security and social challenges.
