FG Canvasses Strict Enforcement of International Humanitarian Law

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

In commemorating the 2024 World Humanitarian Day under themed: ‘ActForHumanity,’ the federal government has called for strict enforcement of international humanitarian law and penalties.

It says humanitarian workers within the country have frequently found themselves in the crossfire of non-state armed groups, while citing that between 2020 and 2024, there have been no less than 49 reported incidents affecting 79 humanitarian workers.

These include the tragic killing of an aid worker from Médecins du Monde, the wounding of a UN pilot, and the attack on the United Nations Aid Facility in Borno State, which resulted in the deaths of at least 20 internally displaced persons and forced aid workers to flee for safety.

The Federal Commissioner for the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, Tijjani Ahmed, who stated this in Abuja, said such heinous acts not only endanger the lives of those who are dedicated to helping others, but also violate the very principles of humanity that underpin global commitment to peace and justice.

He said the importance of protecting humanitarian workers cannot be overstated and the brave individuals serve as lifelines to millions of people in distress, often putting themselves in grave danger to provide food, medical care, shelter, and hope.

Ahmed added that the legal frameworks of the nation must be robust enough to prosecute those who commit such violations and end the cycle of impunity as the protection of humanitarian workers and civilians is a moral imperative.

He said: “We are reminded of the immense sacrifices made by humanitarian workers who, in the face of danger and adversity, continue to stand on the front lines to provide assistance to those in desperate need.

“However, despite these established legal frameworks, we have seen a disturbing trend of increasing attacks on those who are there to help. In recent years, countries across Africa have witnessed violations of these protocols.

“In 2024 alone, no fewer than 26 humanitarian workers in Nigeria have been kidnapped, ambushed, or assaulted while carrying out their duties.

“We must advocate the strict enforcement of international humanitarian law in Nigeria. As a nation, Nigeria has been deeply affected by conflicts that have displaced millions and created an urgent need for humanitarian assistance.

“Our country is home to all of us and organizations who work tirelessly to bring relief to those affected by crises. Yet, these heroes often face life-threatening risks in carrying out their duties.”