By Chesa Chesa
Vice-President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government to strengthen humanitarian interventions across Nigeria through increased collaboration with key stakeholders and development partners.
He made this known on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), led by Ms Doris El Doueihy, during a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Shettima stated that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains resolute in addressing humanitarian challenges nationwide, noting that sustained engagement with organisations such as the ICRC is crucial in tackling gaps in humanitarian response mechanisms.
“It is only when we continue engaging with organisations like the Red Cross that we can address some of the grey areas in our humanitarian responses across the country,” the Vice President said.
He commended the ICRC for its professionalism and dedication to promoting peace and justice, particularly in conflict-affected areas, and welcomed the organisation’s proposal to establish a national humanitarian response mechanism in Nigeria.
According to him, the Federal Government is willing to collaborate with the ICRC to develop and operationalise a framework aimed at improving the management of victims of armed conflict across the country.
Shettima also assured that Nigeria’s security forces would continue to uphold international standards in their operations, describing them as among the most professional globally.
Earlier, Ms El Doueihy praised Nigeria for domesticating the Kampala Convention, noting that the country has set a commendable example for others across Africa and beyond.
She said the visit underscored the strong and longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the ICRC, highlighting ongoing collaborations in areas such as healthcare, water provision, and training of security personnel in conflict zones.
El Doueihy added that the ICRC remains proud to partner with Nigeria in advancing humanitarian support initiatives across the continent.
Also present at the meeting was the President of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Prince Oluyemisi Adetayo Adeaga, alongside other senior officials.
