From Julian Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially launched the *Humanitarian Supply Chain Management – Partnership for Localisation Project* to enhance the country’s humanitarian response capabilities.
The initiative, launched by Vice President Kashim Shettima in Abuja, aims to empower local actors and utilise domestic resources to address escalating humanitarian needs exacerbated by climate change and global economic challenges.
Shettima, represented by Deputy Chief of Staff Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, stated, “Inaction is simply not an option, and the cost of failing to address these crises at their roots will be devastating.” He emphasised that localisation is crucial for creating a more inclusive and resilient future for Nigeria.
The project aligns with the Nigeria Localisation Framework, established in 2019, which prioritises national and local institutions in humanitarian decision-making.
According to a statement issued by his aide, Stanley Nkwocha, a key component of this initiative is the establishment of a Disaster Relief Fund, approved by President Bola Tinubu, intended to provide immediate assistance to disaster victims across the nation.
Shettima remarked, “Local communities understand their challenges best, and by empowering them, we provide them with the tools to shape their own futures.”
The project is implemented by the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Special Duties, Emergency, and Logistics, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and the USA-based Fritz Institute. Mitsuko Mizushima, Project Director at Fritz Institute, highlighted the initiative’s focus on local engagement: “This project is designed to give local people a seat at the table,” she said. The training provided through this initiative has already reached over 25,000 individuals, making it accessible and free.
Chief Adviser to the Government of Borno State on Sustainable Development and Humanitarian Support, Mairo Mandara, emphasised that localisation means responding directly to community needs. She stated, “As long as we remain focused on our transition plans, we cannot go wrong.”
In addition to these efforts, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced its commitment to directing approximately 27% of its funding towards Nigerian-led organisations. Alexis Taylor-Granados, USAID’s Acting Deputy Mission Director, noted that “lasting change in Nigeria requires partnership and collaboration,” underscoring the importance of empowering local humanitarian groups.
The initiative represents a significant step towards transforming Nigeria’s humanitarian landscape by fostering local leadership and ensuring that aid is more responsive to community needs.