Jutha Gupah, Maiduguri
August 12, 2017.
The United Nations Deputy Humanitarian Coordinator, Peter Lundberg has
said that the relationship of “collaboration and trust” with the
Nigerian Government is intact; to support millions of vulnerable
people in the Northeast; with life-saving humanitarian aid.
Lundberg disclosed this on Saturday at a joint press conference with
Governor Kashim Shettima over military’s search of UN Humanitarian
workers’ base; along Pompomari bypass, Maiduguri
He said the Friday search on UN base; was tumultuous events that
generated significant media coverage to provide some clarity, as there
has been ‘confusion and misinformation’ before it was resolved at a
Security Council Meeting.
His words: “At this stage of resolutions, we are focused on the work
ahead to ensure that millions of vulnerable people in the northeast
are supported with life-saving humanitarian aid.
“Responding to the humanitarian needs of millions of people in the
northeast remains our priority and our focus, each and every day.
“The humanitarian crises in Nigeria’s northeast and the Lake Chad
region, is one of the most severe in the world today, with 8.5 million
people in need of humanitarian assistance in 2017 in the worsts
affected states of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe and 6.9 million targeted
for humanitarian assistance.”
He said the food security situation in the Northeast is one of the
major issues, as hundreds and thousands of people do not have enough
to eat, because of the lean season which is at its peak and compounded
by insecurity.
“This means people cannot farm like they used to before,” said Lundberg.
He however noted that; “I am constantly struck, whenever I travel to
remote locations in the northeast or visit displaced persons here in
Maiduguri, or Damaturu, by the families displaying incredible strength
and resourcefulness.”
He said malnutrition, education, safe drinking water, access to
latrines, remain the major priorities for the UN.
“In support of the Government we are all working to improve the
situation for the displaced and also for those returning to their
homes from neighbouring countries of Cameroon, Niger and Chad,” said
Lundberg.
Kashim Shettima said that Friday’s incident was regrettable, adding
that, following the incident, he summoned a Security Council meeting
with all the security chiefs in attendance.
His words: “We meet alongside with the UN Deputy Humanitarian
Coordinator and reaffirmed and resolved to work in synergy and look
forward for even stronger collaboration with the United Nations.
“I have been on phone yesterday with our Sister, Mrs. Amina Mohammed,
and I assured her to continue to give the UN and Humanitarian workers,
our support at all times.”
Shettima, who described the incident as a minor hiccups said that;
“For everyday humanitarian activity is suspended, someone, somewhere
may not have access to food or medicine.
“We all need each other, as Stakeholders in the humanitarian work in
Borno. We have come to a common understanding and we promise to work
on greater collaboration.”
