Abuja: Mr Solomon Folorunsho, Coordinator of the Home for the Needy Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, on Wednesday bagged the ‘Living Legacy’ Humanitarian Award.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the award ceremony was organised by the Humanitarian Service Diamond Awards (HSD Award) in Abuja.

The organisers recognised Folorunsho for his track record in national development, societal upliftment, and service to humanity. Speaking shortly before receiving the award, Folorunsho highlighted the importance of translating humanitarian ideals into daily practice. He emphasized the duty of the humanitarian community to prevent and alleviate suffering wherever it is found, with a focus on the most vulnerable.

Folorunsho expressed that everyone in the humanitarian community is special in the hands of God. He pointed out that Nigeria is a humanitarian society with many in need of service, viewing those suffering as potential professionals. He believes that the work being done will inspire others to join the cause, and stressed that offering help to the needy, regardless of religion, is significant.

He shared that his experience shows that those who help the less privileged will be blessed. Folorunsho noted that many in society are weak, disabled, homeless, and displaced, and without help, they may resort to crime. He advocated for equal opportunities for every human being.

Folorunsho explained that activities at the Home for the Needy IDP camp are driven by the need to serve humanity, asserting that the less privileged deserve dignity and care. He urged Nigerians to love their neighbors, considering everyone in need as a neighbor.

Similarly, Dr Bashir Jamoh, former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), another awardee, highlighted that Nigerians in the North East are the most vulnerable. Jamoh stressed the need for a central body to protect humanitarian workers who face frequent attacks and threats.

Jamoh called for an organization to unite and safeguard aid workers, urging the media to change negative narratives by educating the public and drawing attention to the plight of the less privileged. He emphasized the duty to support media teams in amplifying these issues, as Nigeria is considered one of the most dangerous countries for humanitarian workers.

NAN reports that the HSD Award is an annual event celebrating individuals and organisations for contributions to humanitarian causes and societal development. The 2025 edition, held in commemoration of World Humanitarian Day on Aug. 20, focused on compassion, service, and human dignity, recognising impactful contributions in community development, philanthropy, and social responsibility.