World Humanitarian Day: Institute Raises Alarm Over Attacks On Aid Workers

The Institute for Humanitarian Studies and Social Development (IHSD) has raised the alarm over increasing attacks on humanitarian workers delivering assistance to vulnerable populations in conflict-affected areas.

The Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of the Institute, Amb Prince Francis Origa, made the call on Wednesday in Abuja while addressing journalists to commemorate World Humanitarian Day 2026.

Origa, who spoke on behalf of the Institute and its partners, including the United Nations Institute for Training and Research International Training Centre for Authorities and Leaders (UNITAR-CIFAL Nigeria), said the day was a reminder of the sacrifices made by humanitarian workers and first responders around the world.

He said this year’s global theme: “The Time for Consequence is Now,” with the hashtag #ActForHumanity, underscored the urgent need for action to protect people working on the front lines of humanitarian crises.

Origa condemned the targeting of humanitarian workers, saying the protection of aid workers and civilians as a moral imperative.

He also called for the strict enforcement of international humanitarian law to address impunity and guarantee the safety of humanitarian personnel.

“Humanitarian workers are increasingly targeted. We have seen a disturbing trend of increasing attacks on those who are there to help, with aid workers facing significant risks to their safety and security while delivering aid in conflict zones.

“World Humanitarian Day is not just a date on the calendar; it is a global reminder of the endurance, commitment and sacrifice of humanitarian workers and first responders who risk their lives daily to help others in crisis zones around the world,” he said.

The registrar said World Humanitarian Day is observed annually on August 19 in honour of aid workers who risk or lose their lives while helping people affected by crises.

He called for increased government and private-sector support to address the country’s growing humanitarian needs.

“Our nation continues to face complex humanitarian challenges from displacement and food insecurity to climate-related emergencies.

“At the Institute for Humanitarian Studies and Social Development, we are committed to advancing humanity through professionalism and knowledge building.

“We believe that sustainable change does not come from charity alone, but from equipping communities and leaders with the skills, training and resources they need to respond effectively and rebuild with dignity,” he said.

The registrar also announced the Institute’s 16th Annual Humanitarian Public Lecture and Induction Ceremony, scheduled for Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Haris Hotel, Abuja.

The event, being organised in partnership with UNITAR-CIFAL Nigeria, will have the theme, “Resilience in Action: Strengthening Ethical Leadership, Inclusivity and Humanitarian Values in Nigeria.”

Origa said the event would also feature the presentation of his book, “Materialism and Humanitarianism”, which examines the relationship between material wealth and humanitarian values.

According to him, the event was designed to reinforce the importance of ethical, professional and value-driven humanitarian service.

The Institute also announced the establishment of its Honorary Humanitarian Ambassadors Network, aimed at expanding its training, advocacy and community development activities across Nigeria.

According to Origa, the initiative is being developed in partnership with the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria and will incorporate para-legal services into grassroots humanitarian interventions.

The Institute urged government, private-sector organisations and other stakeholders to strengthen support for humanitarian operations and ensure that aid workers can perform the duties safely and effectively.