On World Humanitarian Day, as the global community reflects on the importance of humanitarian efforts, it is crucial to turn our attention to Nigeria—a nation with immense potential yet beleaguered by economic challenges that have far-reaching humanitarian implications. In a country where millions face poverty, insecurity, and a lack of basic services, the economic situation is not just an issue of national concern but a pressing humanitarian crisis.
Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy is endowed with vast natural resources and a youthful population. Yet, despite these advantages, the country struggles with severe economic disparities, high unemployment rates, and persistent inflation. These economic challenges are not just abstract statistics; they translate into daily hardships for millions of Nigerians. The struggle for survival, access to basic healthcare, education, and the ability to feed one’s family are increasingly out of reach for many, turning economic issues into humanitarian emergencies.
The link between the economy and humanitarian needs is starkly evident in Nigeria’s growing poverty levels. According to recent reports, over 40 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line, with many more hovering just above it. The impact of this widespread poverty is devastating: malnutrition is rampant, healthcare is inaccessible for many, and children are being pulled out of school as families can no longer afford fees or supplies. In such a context, the humanitarian mission is not just about responding to immediate crises but about addressing the systemic economic issues that give rise to these conditions.
The humanitarian situation is further exacerbated by insecurity across several regions of the country. The ongoing conflicts, especially in the Northeast with Boko Haram and in other regions plagued by banditry and communal violence, have displaced millions of Nigerians. These internally displaced persons (IDPs) live in dire conditions, often without access to adequate food, water, shelter, or medical care. The economy’s failure to provide jobs, opportunities, and a sense of stability fuels these conflicts, creating a vicious cycle where economic deprivation leads to violence, which in turn deepens the humanitarian crisis.
Moreover, the economic policies of successive Nigerian governments have often failed to prioritise the most vulnerable. While macroeconomic reforms are necessary, they must be balanced with social protection measures that ensure that the benefits of economic growth reach those who need it most. The removal of fuel subsidies, for instance, though fiscally prudent, has led to a sharp increase in living costs for ordinary Nigerians. Without adequate social safety nets, such policies push more people into poverty, thereby worsening the humanitarian situation.
World Humanitarian Day serves as a reminder that economic stability and growth should not be pursued at the expense of human well-being. Economic policies must be inclusive, ensuring that all citizens have access to the resources and opportunities they need to live with dignity. This requires a shift in focus towards sustainable development, job creation, and investment in critical sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and education. It also demands greater accountability and transparency in governance to ensure that the country’s wealth is used to benefit the entire population, not just a privileged few.
As Nigeria marks World Humanitarian Day, there is a clear imperative for the government, private sector, and civil society to collaborate on creating a more equitable economy. This collaboration should prioritise the humanitarian needs of the population, ensuring that economic growth translates into tangible improvements in the lives of all Nigerians. By addressing the root causes of poverty and insecurity, Nigeria can begin to transform its economy into one that serves its people, laying the foundation for a future where humanitarian crises are no longer driven by economic mismanagement but are instead prevented by sound, inclusive, and compassionate policies.
In the spirit of World Humanitarian Day, let us commit to building an economy that not only grows but uplifts every Nigerian, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of prosperity.
