Nigeria plans to take a leading role in coordinating humanitarian responses within the country, shifting from a system primarily led by international donors and UN agencies.

This transition was outlined during a joint workshop in Abuja, where the Nigerian government and the United Nations discussed transferring greater responsibility for planning, coordination, and financing of operations to national institutions.

Humanitarian Minister Bernard Doro emphasized that this move does not signify a withdrawal of international support but rather a transition to government-led coordination, which will continue to receive technical assistance from the UN and other partners.

The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mohamed Fall, noted that the decision aims to leverage more government and private-sector funding to address humanitarian challenges such as conflict, displacement, food insecurity, flooding, climate shocks, and public health emergencies.Donor funding has faced global pressures, prompting Nigeria to strengthen its capacity to respond to crises.The UN reported that nearly 35 million Nigerians are at risk of hunger due to collapsed aid budgets.

Doro stated that his ministry will collaborate with federal and state authorities, aid agencies, and affected communities to coordinate humanitarian efforts nationwide.Nigeria aims to develop its 2027 humanitarian plan with technical support from OCHA and the broader UN system.

This shift reflects Nigeria's commitment to self-reliance in addressing humanitarian needs while maintaining partnerships with international organizations.