As the world marks the World Refugee Day on June 20, the Institute for Humanitarian Studies and Social Development (IHSD) in Nigeria has called on the African leaders and the global community to act decisively against the growing scourge of insecurity, displacement, and mass killings across the continent.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Friday, Registrar/CEO of the Institute, Dr. Prince Francis Origa, decried the worsening humanitarian crises driven by unchecked violence, governance failures, and systemic neglect.
Origa stressed that the scale of suffering in conflict-affected regions, particularly in Nigeria, demands leadership that prioritises people and upholds human dignity above political expediency.
“The insecurity we see across Nigeria and Africa is an undeniable driver of displacement, hunger, and human suffering. This day is not just about remembrance, it’s a call to action,” he said.
The event also marked the official opening of nominations for the Pan-African Humanitarian Leadership Award (TPAHLA) 2025, themed: “Honouring Heroes, Forging Forward.”
The award seeks to recognise individuals and institutions making outstanding contributions to refugees’ welfare, peacebuilding, and humanitarian innovation across Africa and the global African diaspora.
Origa noted that TPAHLA was founded to spotlight Africa’s unsung heroes, those advocating for peace, sheltering displaced families, condemning ethnic cleansing, and building grassroots solutions to crises often ignored by mainstream platforms.
“TPAHLA is our way of recognising those working day and night from researchers and policy advocates to community builders and spiritual leaders who keep the flame of hope burning for millions of displaced people,” he added.
This year’s award ceremony, he said is scheduled for October 15–19, 2025, in Abuja with over 500 delegates from more than 30 African countries.
He said 100 persons will be celebrated for exemplary governance for humanitarian impact, youth empowerment and gender equality, climate and environmental leadership, and human rights and social justice.
Significantly, he added that the 2025 edition will also witness the launch of the Pan-African Humanitarian Resource Centre, envisioned as the continent’s first dedicated hub for humanitarian training, research, and innovation.
“Our goal is to go beyond symbolic awards. We’re investing in capacity, policy, and systems to ensure African solutions are front and center in the global humanitarian agenda,” Origa emphasised.
He further noted that humanitarianism in Africa must evolve from acts of sympathy to sustained action rooted in local realities, shaped by African voices, and backed by bold and collective will.
Referencing ongoing violence in regions such as Benue and Borno, Origa criticised the reliance on military interventions without deeper structural engagement.
“The presence of troops alone cannot resolve systemic conflict. We need a shift toward the UN’s Human Security framework a people-centred model that addresses root causes and builds long-term peace,” he said.
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