Today August 19th, 2023 marks World Humanitarian Day, an international day dedicated to recognize people helping people and those who have lost their lives working for humanitarian causes.
The Theme of the year\’s celebration is \”No matter who, No matter where
#NoMatterWhat\”
It aims to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, especially people needing humanitarian assistance and protection due to natural disaster, communal clashes, inter-tribal conflicts, etc affecting the majority of our people.
Recall that, I was inaugurated as Honorable as Commissioner in charge of Humanitarian Affairs barely two days ago by His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, the Executive Governor of Cross River State. Let me use this opportunity to appreciate His Excellency for finding me worthy to serve in this capacity and to pioneer the ministry to greater heights where Humanitarians will stand shoulder to shoulder with the communities they serve and bring hope to our people.
As the ponieer Commissioner in- charge of the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry in Crosd Rive State since the return to civil rule, I wish to celebrate this day with a reinforcement of our determination for humanity and to shed light on the importance of combining efforts towards a safer and prosperous Cross River State.
While commemorating this Global Day, the Ministry will strive to come up with specific programmes to address urgent threats and challenges posed to victims of communal clashes, flood, erosion, rainstorm, climate change, windstorms, drought, disease, hunger, internal displacement and other humanitarian challenges in the State. I therefore affirm the State governments commitment to reducing the effects of this challenges as we join the global community to mark the 2023 World Humanitarian Day in the State.
The Ministry will pay particular attention to these emerging issues by facilitating the return and rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons(IDPs) and providing needed support to the increasing number of orphans and widows in the State. We will come up with specific programmes and projects that respond to these challenges as well as that of children orphaned by crisis.
I commend all humanitarian aid workers providing the much-needed assistance to all those affected by one disaster or the other. I acknowledge humanitarian aid workers across the globe, particularly in Cross River State for distinguishing themselves through their courage, commitment and drive to help their fellow humans in need regardless of the extreme risks they face.
The Ministry will continue to stand in solidarity with humanitarian aid workers and recognize their tremendous service and sacrifice. We appreciate their tireless efforts to save lives, preserve human dignity, and alleviate suffering. Their selfless commitment and actions are encouraging and worthy of emulation. The State government will continue to support this laudable effort.
We shall work closely with all International and Local Humanitarian and Developmental Organizations for their support in complementing our efforts to combat and stabilize humanitarian challenges in the State. I therefore appeal for the continued cooperation and support of all relevant public, private, local and international organisations to support the State government’s drive in this direction.
In conclusion, I commend His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Otu for his high quality leadership and the vision in establishing the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs in the State to pioneer and inspire the much needed change.
Humanitarians must be Kept Safe #NoMatterWhat!
Long Live the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs!
Long Live Cross River State!!
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!
Signed
Dr (Mrs) Helen Isamoh,
Hon. Commissioner.
