Abuja: The Institute for Humanitarian Studies and Social Development (IHSD) has called upon the Federal Government to prioritize social justice and inclusion, emphasizing the importance of human dignity in governance.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Francis Origa, Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of IHSD, highlighted the ongoing issues of exclusion and unequal treatment as catalysts for violence and unrest nationwide. Speaking during the 15th Annual Humanitarian Public Lecture and the Pan-African Humanitarian Leadership Award (TPAHLA) in Abuja, Origa urged the government to meet citizens’ expectations and uphold human life and dignity.
He criticized current policy-making approaches, asserting that representatives often design policies for personal gain and impose them on the populace. Origa called for more inclusive governance, urging officials to consider the needs of all citizens, especially the underserved.
During the event, Origa stressed the importance of empathy and humanitarianism, enc
ouraging Nigerians to offer support beyond financial means. He advocated for a culture of care, urging citizens to be proactive in helping one another through encouragement and support.
The event, which marked the International Day for Disaster Reduction and the International Day of the Girl Child, brought together stakeholders from various sectors to address emerging humanitarian issues. Participants included government officials, development practitioners, and humanitarian organizations.
The lecture’s theme focused on enhancing African security cooperation through humanitarian values and building robust institutions. Over 100 students graduated as professional humanitarians, and 35 distinguished fellows were inducted.
Alhaji Mukhtar Yero, former Governor of Kaduna State and event chairman, emphasized effective communication in humanitarian work, while Mr. Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development, urged youth empowerment through humanitarian service.
Mrs. Zubaida Umar, Director-General of the Nati
onal Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), highlighted the role of humanitarian leadership in governance and conflict prevention. The event also announced the admission of Dr. Bokchara Malanyaro to the IHSD governing council for his humanitarian contributions.
Keynote speakers like Dr. Osama Tanfa and Prof. Simon Shomkegh discussed trans-border peace and humanitarian ethics. The occasion also celebrated awardees for their dedication to humanitarian leadership and included the unveiling of the Pan-African Humanitarian Response Centre.